Fall is busy season. My boys will tell you, “Mom is upstairs editing…it’s busy season.” There are many late nights, early mornings, exploring new locations, searching for beautiful light, and editing, editing, editing. Don’t get me wrong, my job is an honor and a privilege. I give people moments of time – precious moments of their lives – that they get to keep forever. In fact, the prints could be passed down generation to generation. I am well aware of the importance of the work that keeps me so busy, because it is so very special to me and my family also. So, don’t take this as me complaining – more just stating a fact. I am tired…very tired. My plate is as full as it can get, and I’m ready for a day off. Just a moment to recharge. But, as all photographers know, these beautiful fall sunsets and stunningly rich colors are fleeting. We all feel obligated to fit it all in. Before we know it, the days will be short, cold, and dark, and we will miss this busyness.
Even if you’re not a photographer, I know you can relate to this feeling. The holidays are fast approaching, the kids are busy with extra school activities, and there never seems to be enough hours in the day. Stay-at-home Mom – I see you taking care of everyone but yourself. You are over worked and under not paid. You multitask like crazy, and go without thanks on many occasion. Working parent – I see you putting in countless hours at work, then coming home and giving 100% to your babies until they’re tucked into bed. You spread yourself thin and still look good doing it. You drop off your child at school rocking sharp business attire while I pull up wearing sweatpants and bedhead. I’m endlessly impressed.
It feels sometimes like we are losing ourselves in our work. I can feel Cristen slipping away and she is replaced by Mom and the picture lady. Then, the other night while editing, I noticed something that changed my perspective. I saw my silhouette in my client’s eyes – something I’ve seen many times before – but in my tired stupor, I saw a deeper meaning. I am a part of every image I create. While I may not have made it in the frame very often this year, a part of me is in every photo I take. The way I see a location, what I choose to include in the frame, and the way I compose a shot is all part of who I am. I am not losing my identity, I am sharing it.
I see you in the happiness of your family. I see you in the way you provide for the ones you love. Yes we are exhausted and probably underappreciated, but this is who we are are and what we love. Try to see your now the way you will see your past. You won’t look back and remember the dark circles under your eyes. You will look back and remember the good times and love. See the good and let it fuel you.
