I Am A Photographer.

That almost seems as if I am trying to convince myself and to be honest for a while I was. I was scared to introduce myself as a photographer or tell people what I do or why. It was hard to convince myself to include being a photographer on my resume or in an elevator speech. I don’t know exactly why I was so scared and  there are many parts to it. I doubted myself, my work, and my ability to make my dream a reality. The fear of failure. I still have those same fears. Being a photographer is a craft of a creative person and I question if I am creative enough. Is my service or product good enough? I don’t think there will ever come a time when I am not occasionally doubtful in myself, but I think that is normal.

There are many wonderful photographers out there, some that have been doing this longer than me and others that are just starting. There is an influx of photographers since the introduction of an affordable DSLR. The unspoken rule of self-comparison is evil. I have compared my work, my experience level and knowledge. I crave for further advancement and bigger dreams but I know that where I am today is perfect. It is just where I should be.

Over the weekend I had an interview with a wonderful group of ladies to showcase my photography, discuss my business plan, and share my aspirations for my small business in Front Royal. It was uplifting and very insightful to meet with these fellow Front Royalians who work closely with small businesses to offer encouragement and words of advice. Before my interview I was nervous, my hands were cold, and my heart was racing. I had no idea what to expect and worried that they would think I was crazy. During my interview I was took my surprise when one of the ladies said, “usually people come aspiring to be a photographer, but you, you are a photographer!” My heart is overcome with joy that someone else saw the passion and fire in me. It was the biggest compliment that I could have received.

Now after a few years I am confident in saying that I am a photographer! I am a high school senior and wedding photographer in Northern Virginia. Photographer is on my resume and what I say when I introduce myself. I am proud of my craft and my business. It is on my resume and I proudly tell people what I my passion is. It is a small business but it is one that I created. My dream has blossomed over the years and grows year after year. I am proud of myself. I am thankful for my clients and that my dream and vision have taken off and grown.

Photos courtesy of Thera of Thera VanDerveer Photography