I'm not sure whether to take a break from my 365. I think I need to step back and rekindle my enthusiasm to take a photo every day, but am not sure how long I can do this without losing my pics (and followers!) I've just been a bit disillusioned recently and am not sure what to do...
I would be so sad to see you go. Maybe change the "rules" for yourself. Nothing says that you HAVE to take a picture a day. Also, don't put pressure on yourself to have an amazing picture everyday! So...bug deal if your picture might suck one day...it just keeps you going. My point being...if you think you want to stay...change your "rules". Not everyone here takes a picture day.
I know how you feel. I've been feeling uninspired and not very excited to take photos at times. The pressure of trying to get that great shot every day can get to a person, which is why you just gotta not let it bug you. What you might think is bad, everyone else may love. You have some amazing photos and it would be sad to see you go. Hope you're able to work through it and stay! And filler photos are okay. Life sometimes gets in the way of taking photos. :) Hope you stick around!
@cohare - you have a very valid point about changing the rules. I guess I have been putting unnecessary pressure on myself and I really don't need to... Real food for thought, thank you! x
@kaitlynnelson - Life sure does get in the way, you're right!! Thank you for your encouraging comment Kaitlyn, I really do need to rethink things a little I guess!
I would hate to see you leave as you add so much to this project with your talent and your beautiful work. If I could be half as good as you...I would be thrilled. Having said that, I understand as I was just saying that I spend too much time on this project and I feel that I am not doing justice to the rest of stuff going on in my life. I think changing the rules is the best advice!
I rarely take a picture a day. That was definitely my intent when I started this project, but then when I was feeling pressure, someone told me, "It's your project. You make the rules. There's no right or wrong way to do this." I post a pic everyday, but I really try to take a bunch in one outing and then post from that outing for several days because I don't have time, nor do I have an interest in trying to get a photo a day. I don't love all of my photos and feel all "ugh" when I post some of them, but I'm always glad to get one up for the day.
I hope you stay!
All that being said, you do what is best for you, girl!!! :)
if you take a break, i'll be watching for you to return and i'm sure your other friends will be too. If we got to vote on what you should do, i'd vote for you posting a recent pic of your day to day activities. no one, especially those with young kids to play with, need the constant pressure of taking and posting a pic in the same day. ;-)
@kimmiesue Well I'm taking a break also so I can't help you however don't feel you need to post everyday. Or if you do post everyday do all your shooting on the weekends and post during the week. The idea is to stay interested not burned out or stressed over it.
First, your photos are wonderful. Second, I think this project can get overwhelming trying to do a shot every day. If you are getting burned out trying to get a shot every day, than your not getting the joy of it. I think we all go through dry spells and non productive days. It's your project and you should post as you feel you want too. I love your stream and I would for sure not stop following you if you took a break. Good luck with your decision! Don't lose your love for photography!
Don't go, Kim! I love your work! I think what happens is when we start this project we take pics of whatever, no pressure! Then we get caught up in the "perfect pic a day" thing and it gets to be a lot of pressure! Just post whatever you want, no pressure! I usually take a bunch in one shoot and spread them out or save them for the lazy or busy days!
If you are worried about filler, take a look at the last 2 weeks of my project and count the number of shots tagged 35mm. Those are all at least 8 years old! But I found where I had scanned them to and wanted to show them off when I had a bad day or couldn't take a shot that day....so
1. don't feel bad about fillers, nobody is perfect
2. Don't put pressure on yourself, do what you can, when you can.
3. Most people that "take a break" don't end up coming back, just an observation I have made....no hard facts to back it up
I've been MIA for weeks... I've been taking pictures a lot, though not every day, and I felt guilty at first. But I realized that taking the pressure off and not worrying too much about what other people will think is actually kind of freeing. Some days I have time to stop by and make a few comments on the latest posts, and I'm slowly starting to catch up on getting my photos uploaded. My advice is like a lot of the others' -- make your own rules to ate the pressure off, and do what you can. No matter how much I do on 365 (or don't do), I still love photography so much that I get a lot of enjoyment out of seeing the amazing photos on here (including yours!!) and sharing my own whenever I can.
Hi! I agree with all these comments and particularly Jerry... I often marvel at the way your shots are composed, lit, etc and wish I had time and skill to do likewise, but has producing such amazing shots so often put extra pressure on you... do you feel you have to continue with/improve on such perfection?! I've had a couple of enforced days off and it's quite liberating to think I can go back through the files and post a few favourite shots to fill in the gaps seeing as I really didn't have the chance to take any daily ones. Don't stop, but do pause a little if it helps! :)
(I also think that this time of year, plus colds etc makes us all feel a bit despondent, I'm hanging on knowing it will help me through the winter!)
I am just now getting to know your work, that being said, Don't Go!!! take a step back...I think that we have a wonderful group of people here on this site that wont be upset if you dont post everyday, or if you post some silly shot here and there...... You do have a gift... the great thing about gifts is that you dont have to give one out everyday :-) do what makes you feel good....
No don't go. I have been feeling exactly the same way this week..and for a few previous weeks if truth be told! I'm struggling to find things to photograph and sometimes i dont like any of my pictures. I'm going to stick it out because i really want to complete and the way i am going to rationalise it is that on the days i can't think of anything, i will post something and not be bothered if anyone comments/ views. Im going to stop worrying if anyone likes my stuff or not and just do it for my own piece of mind.. i hope you dont go, we can support each other in the tough uninspired/disillusioned days....xx
You and I are at about the same point in our main projects. I take the photo a day seriously but if things pile up and I don't get out to shoot I will make amends by going out the next day and posting something from that day as a filler as well. Sometimes I feel uninspired because I rarely leave my little town to shoot. But I force myself to go out and look around because things always change whether it's the light, a new flower or people. And I think of my time with the camera as "me" time. We all need a moment in our day only for ourselves. I love photography and I enjoy the relax of just taking a walk and looking at what's going on around me. Sorry for the long reply... Hope it helps some. If you do take a break I would understand though... I for one would not unfollow! I like your work too much :)
There's not a chance i would un-follow you! Take your time to decide, Like some of the others, I take alot of photo's at the weekend and post through the week because I just don't have the time. Don't go though, you might not come back and that would be too big a shame:)
I decided to take a break after completing my first year and ended up coming back after a break of about 2 weeks!!! I genuinely really missed it 365 had become part of my routine and my life. Occasionally I have less motivated days and times but the great thing about 365 is you can make your own rules, get as involved as you want, themes, discussions, lots of inspiration and ideas,. We are all different and have very different projects. That's why I love it! Don't give yourself a hard time just do whatever feels right.
I know how you feel, I often question myself about this. For me taking a (good) photo a day is too much, but if I would stop, I wouldn't make so much effort to improve my photography, and I wouldn't get so many ideas from others. I take photos almost everyday but I refuse to post a pic of my shoes because I have nothing else. It's how I see my project, what I post has to be interesting for the others too (to a certain extend, because I know it's not true everyday, lol). So, I often end up posting several pics I took on the previous week-end during the week, if I consider they are more interesting.
Don't go, I love your work, even if I don't have time to look at your pics everyday! But if you would decide to take a break, I would still follow you!
I suspect if you take a break you'll suddenly start seeing pics everywhere again and want to get back on it! Your followers will miss your pics (I will) but will definitely not be 'Unfollowing' you becasue you've gone for a week or two. A few people I follow have disappeared for a few weeks due to work pressures and then come back - everybody is pleased to see them again and it carries on as before. It sounds like I'm encouraging you to take a break (!) - I don't mean that I want you to but if you feel you need one I wouldn't panic that everybody will have gone!
Kim, I'm not quite to my 365 but I've made the decision to only post when I get the chance. I felt that I was placing the 'unnecessary pressure' on myself as well, so when I pick up the camera now, it's because I'm feeling inspired to do so and enjoy getting out to take the photos.
Whatever you decided, have fun. You take some truly stunning images.
@raebell Glad to hear it is just a break- miss your work. @kimmiesue Fillers may be older shots to you but to us they are new. Change your rules and make the project work with you. Love your work.
Please don't give up, your work is great and we all love viewing it but, as often said above, take the pressure off yourself and change your rules. Put on what you want and when you want. I decided very early on that taking a photo and uploading it every day was putting too much pressure on myself when photography is supposed to be a relaxing hobby for me. I upload late, upload fillers and even upload in advance, just what I can do, when I can do it and, more important, when I feel I want to!! Hang in there Kim for all our benefit!
i love your work! when i was feeling this same sort of lag i decided as others have that i needed to make this project for me! and althou i take a picture most days often that is not the one i post... usually for me it's the shot that i edit or that calls to me for that day that i post... i think photography has to be fun if it becomes a chore that's not good... there's also something to be said in the creative process to having down time ... i've had to take a week off here and there for work and for vacations... and althou i was shooting i was not posting... we'd all miss you terribly if you went! hope you can find a way to make this all work for you.
@marytj - I've just woken to all these replies!! Thank you for commenting with such lovely words! I do think that I need to change the rules a bit. I really love doing 365, but I'd been starting to feel a pressure that I couldn't handle or didn't want to handle. I think it's because I don't get out so much (hubby away A LOT, a baby, living with SC bugs that come looking for me!) that I get bored snapping the same scenery etc... I will keep going on here I think, but will just take pics when I can and then use fillers. Thanks Mary! x
@hiddencreek - you're right! I need to change the rules to suit me! It's MY project!! Thanks Kari! @sunnygreenwood - Anne thank you!! Yep, it's so hard sometimes with the little guys and husband away a lot (meaning we don't get out to different places together much) I think I'd been getting bored with the same scenery. But I do have plenty of fillers...! x @marlboromaam@debsphotos@raebell - thanks for your input ladies! I think I'll be changing the rules to suit me from now on! @catwhiskers - thank you so much for your lovely comment! I think I'll stick around and make this work for me! You're right! @orangecrush - Thanks Jerry! You're so right with the attempt to get the perfect pic etc! I'm always amazed and thrilled at the amount of wonderful, committed followers and really try to bring something better each time - which is a good thing for us all to do, it's how we improve isn't it - but I'm just not able to get to different places right now. I'm stuck with lagoon/baby/flower shots!!!! So I've decided to change the rules and, like you, take a bunch at a time when I can and spread them out! Thanks for taking the time to comment!
@shadesofgrey - thanks! You're right, I need to take the pressure of and not feel bad with using fillers!! x @ronah - thanks for taking the time to comment! Yep, I need to make this work for me and make it easier!! Thanks! @filsie65 - Yes, I was feeling the pressure to get that perfect pic every day and wondered if I could actually keep that going...! But I just can't! So I've decided to not take the break but post when I can and use fillers when I have to. Thanks for your enouraging words Phil! x
@918smippt - Wow thank you Ed, for your awesome and encouraging comment!! Yes, I've decided to keep this going and just post when I can, with fillers if necessary!! x
@bec01 - thank you Rebecca! I had no idea that others have felt the same too! I certainly need to rethink this and take the pressure off! Fillers ARE okay, and posting an 'okay' pic is fine too! Thanks for your lovely comments! x
@aspada - Your comments have really helped Amy, thanks!! I'm the same, I've always tried to get out, just me and my camera! With me though, we've recently moved house and I have a 14mth old in tow. My pics have somehow been of him, the lagoon in the neighbourhood, or flowers!!! Hubby is away a lot, so we're not getting away to different places much, so I think I'd become bored of the same old same old....!
You've made me realise that there are still loads of things I can take pics of even in one small place if I just look. And then not to feel guilty about using fillers! X
@scatcat - Muse thank you!! Your words are so true, I always want to be able to take a pic that's good and also interesting to others too! And it's hard!!! Well, after reading all these comments, I know I need to stay on here, but will change the rules to make it work for me!! Thanks! x
@judithg - Judith thank you for your encouraging comment!! After reading all these, I know I need to stay. I'll just post when I can and use fillers when I have to. Thanks for helping me out!! x
@tashachawner - thanks for taking the time to comment!! You're right, I need to take pics when I'm inspired without the pressure. I've decided now, to stay on here and make it work for me! Thanks! x
@judithdeacon - You're right, it's supposed to be a relaxing hobby! And that's where it was going downhill for me - I was losing that enjoyment and only feeling pressure to get that 'perfect' pic. So after reading these comments and having a sleep on it, I'm going to stay and change my thinking, making 365 work for me by posting pics when I can, without the pressure. Thanks, as always Judith, for your enouraging words! x
@cfrantz - thank you for commenting!! Yes, For me, it had become a chore, not a pleasure. After reading all these awesome comments, I think I will continue but make it work for me and post when I can and not feel guilty about filler pics!! Thanks Cynce! x
I understand how you feel. I did change the rules for myself a long time ago. I do not take a pic every day. Rather, I will take a bunch at a time, process them when I have time and then keep them in a 365 folder on my computer to upload when needed. Last year I went through a rut where I rarely picked up my camera, so for me it is more important that I am actually using my camera every few days instead of it gathering dust. You just need to make it work for you. :)
Hey just seen this & read the thread so hope that you just take a break & hope to see your shots going forward as they are consistantly awesome. I find 365 strange as it does dtress me to get a shot a day but then i find it a positive stress from the everyday stresses if yo know what I mean. Hope to see you back soon Cheers Si x
I understand being bored with the surroundings. I can't drive so 98% of my photos are either within my home or within walking distance. It can feel so uninspiring. When I've gotten especially frustrated I remind myself that I take a lot for granted right under my nose. My photos aren't nearly of your caliber, but not wanting to take my world/life for granted gets me going again.
I recently was unable to take photos for nearly two weeks due to poor health. After that break I couldn't wait to pick up my camera. It was hard to catch up from being away that long, but a week would have easier. I still have crap days since I've been back, but most days I'm much more motivated even as I'm still not quite feeling like myself.
@herussell - Wow - you're so right about not taking for granted, everything that's right in front of us. That has certainly made me stop and think.... I'm so sorry to read about your ill health, and I truly hope you get to being well VERY soon. Thank you for your really kind words!! xx
While it sounds like you've decided your course, I thought since I'd pondered similar issues myself, I'd chime in.
I think real creative minds are prone to compulsive thinking - driven to pursue their passion. With that comes burnout and anxiety over whether or not what you're doing today is better than what you did yesterday, and other nuances of competition with self and others. For this type of OCD personality, living in normal surroundings, there can't possibly be enough stimulating and fascinating photographic subjects to suit some of us, every single day!
I found myself becoming worried about where my next shot was coming from. Then, I thought about where my past shots have come from and I realized I had nothing to do with any of it, except that I took my camera with me everywhere I went and made sure I was ready. I do make time as often as my schedule will allow to venture to local spots known to hold the photo subjects of liking; however, some of the best shots I've taken have been pure luck and happenstance.
My advice - don't make photo-taking into a deliberate exercise. Simply trust your eye to find worthy subjects as you go through your days, and make darn sure you have a camera with a charged battery and a memory card (how often have I put my lens on something only to realize the card slot is empty - ARGH!) and start snapping! The rest will take care of itself. Relax, have fun, and don't stop - if you do, you will for sure get no photos, and what obsessive compulsive personality can live with THAT?!! :-)
I think I am having some of the same feelings as you, and were I not so close to finishing, think I would stop for a while too, But, I'm not one to quit in the middle of something so I'm going to plug on through to the end. It's not that I don't like the project, I do, but I'm finding discouragement more than satisfaction lately. However, the encouraging words of my faithful followers have been the spark I needed to re-ignite the fire. I have fewer than 100 days to go, so I'm in it til the end. I see that you're pretty close, too, and I suspect that you'd be disappointed in yourself if you quit now. I'm glad that you've decided to keep going. Your photos are great and I'm sure that if you went back to look at your first photos, the compared them to your last, you'd discover that this project has helped you to become a better photographer. I don't know about you, but that was my motive for beginning the project, so I'm glad I started it. We'll all help you through these last few days. You go, Girl!
@kimmiesue Oh dear, I understand now... with a 14 mo. in tow it could be dicey. I feel for you. But hey, he is a gorgeous little guy and should give you lots of opportunities to practice your motion shots, lighting techniques, and partial portrait techniques too!
@coastandcactus - Oh my goodness, you've summed it all up right there!!! That last sentence - ha, so true!! As I read your words I think about my other passion of composing choral music and how I would not let any choir see any music until every note was right and and the whole piece was as perfect as I could make it. I had to learn to stop, wait for the creative juices to flow naturally, and relax about the end result a little, because in the end the piece was always better that way....Wow, thanks Cissy!! [I always used to keep a pencil and manuscript paper with me in case I found myself singing a melody that needed to be written down straight away - I suppose that's the same with the camera and memory card!!] xx
I know the feeling.....I am feeling uninspired and uncreative lately. I haven't been taking a photo everyday....I usually take a bunch in one day and take a few days off. It's hard getting out of the house to photograph different things with 2 toddlers:) But I love this project and want to keep at it, I'm just not gonna stress over taking a photo everyday! I LOVE your photos, I would be sad if you left! My advice is to take a few days off every now and then, you can always catch up! Whatever you decide is great.....but just want you to know you're an awesome photographer....one of my faves to follow! :)
@dejongdd - thanks for commenting Deb! Yes, I'm so far into it now that it would be the biggest shame, and like you, I'm no quitter. You're right about the encouragement from our wonderful followers - that's what will keep us going to the end! Thanks!! x
@aspada - Ha, yes, he sure is my No1 model!!! Bless him, I'm sure his babbling would be translated into 'Oh no, mummy has her camera. Nooooooo...' You're right about practicing on him with light, motion etc!! x
@amers79 - Aw Amy, thank you!!!! When I woke this morning to all these awesome comments, I knew I had to keep going and that's exactly what I'm going to do - post when I have some pics, relax about it when I can't! Yes, with little ones around you all day it can be hard to get out, so I've decided not to stress about it anymore. Thanks for your encouraging words!! x
personally I love your gorgeous photos and would never unfollow someone who wanted to step away for a break- this project is ultimately about you and if you are feeling burnt out, then it is no longer a joy but a chore....do what you need to and we will be here happy to see you back in whatever way you deem fit for YOU:))))
Kim: I wrote this note below just this am to an individual wondering about whether others post junk occasionally. You do not post junk, but only the highest quality stuff. You have very high standards and do a great job. So why not loosen up the "rules" on yourself and just enjoy it?
If the photo is funny or for fun, that is one thing and certainly a "why not upload" answer is reasonable. But if the upload is "just to get one in", I would say, take the day off, do something more useful, creative, or fun. You are not uploading for anyone except yourself and if you contribute junk, it wastes the time of others that respect your work,[ and if it is not fun or useful to you, there is no reason to do it].
There is no rule that says one MUST have taken the photo you upload on that day, nor do you have to take pictures every day. However, the project gets you thinking about taking photos every day, and looking at things in a compositional way, but often ones best work comes in bunches. One does not have to apologize for using a photo from a prior day, because it is YOUR PROJECT, not someone elses and you can do it as you want to do.
So, I would say, forget about the idea of having to upload daily, keep thinking about taking shots and get out to do so whenever you can, but to upload what you consider to be junk [or is an unpleasant effort] wastes your own time and everyone elses. JMO.
Thanks for all of your contributions I hope you stay around. // Don Roos
I just did that, actually. I stepped away for over a month because I just got too busy. Yes, you may lose followers and comments may be sparse, (when you come back) but if you just keep commenting on everyone else's pictures, those things will pick up eventually.
@morrisroos - Don thank you for taking the time to comment. You're absolutely right about it being my project and that I really don't have to post a current pic every day! I wrote this topic question last night just before bed, so that I wouldn't be staring at the screen and so that I would hopefully wake to some rational input on this from others. I was overwhelmed by pretty much the same response, which is to change the rules for myself and do what I can to maintain my passion for photography!
Your words are really encouraging and kind. Thank you. This is turning into a good day! x
@clarissajohal - I did notice you were away (and I missed your pics!). I know I've decided to continue without the break (for now at least!) but I still think that stepping away from here must surely be refreshing too!! Thanks for commenting!! Glad you're back! x
Creative blocks and burnout happens to everyone sooner or later. It's not fun, and it's incredibly discouraging to go through long stretches feeling like you're not doing anything worthwhile with your picture-taking. Sometimes I find it helps to try a different activity for a while to realign the braincells, so to speak.
I still take photos everyday for my project because for *me* it's about the discipline of snapping *something* every day, whether I feel like it or not, whether it's crap or not. I know not every photo I take will be spectacular, and that's OK with me because I've defined 365 for training my creative eye to notice what's interesting about each day; it's also a form of therapy.
That being said, it's YOUR project, and ultimately you are the only one you have to answer to for it. Not the viewers and followers, no matter how supportive and wonderful they are--- they are a nice side bonus. As long as YOU can look at your project with a smile of pride and accomplishment, that is all that matters, and if getting to that point means taking a break, or only taking photos on days you feel like you're "in the zone", it is your prerogative to do so.
Sorry to be so long-winded but creative frustration is one of my "pet" topics :) Good luck and keep that creative head up!
I agree with what a lot of others have already commented. They're your rules and you can change them to suit you. I have only recently started but have 4 blank days on my calendar because I had so much other stuff going on those days and no head space and time to take a pic. For me it felt important to acknowledge that and accept the blank space rather than beating myself up about not taking a photo. I LOVE your fillers and I think equally that's absolutely fine.
I started this project to have a regular motivation to get used to my new DSLR, but I also liked the idea that it is a photo diary for me, so some days there will be pictures that maybe have more personal meaning than trying to produce a fantastic photograph...one of the blank days my washing machine broke down and my sister said she was looking forward to pics of old and new washing machine. I had never considered it at the time but that would've been so fitting! Next time (and that will only be the toaster breaking down!!) I shall document it :-)
Hope you find the right decision for you! I shall be looking forward to your pictures as and when they appear in my newsfeed!
Please don't stop! I love looking at your work, especially the pictures of your boys. Post the pictures you are able to take and don't worry about taking one everyday. I don't know how anyone can do that consistently. Post whenever you can, whatever you can. I don't know how you are able to post as many as you do with the boys, a husband, the move and taking so much time to post all the kind and positive comments you post about others pictures.
When I had my accident in August it was very hard for me to keep up with the project... I was not seeing well, had no inspiration and somehow was feeling enslaved by the project... I took more than a month break and for my surprise I lost just one or two followers... now that I am back at the project I feel it was really good to take that break.
I am now filling up the empty spaces with pics that were wasted here... I hate the empty spaces ;(
If you take a break I will miss your pics... but will wait patiently your coming back ;)
I completed my project in June, and I certainly went through my fair share of uninspired periods.
I think the project shouldn't create stress in your life. Whether that means not worrying about repeating the same subject, or if the photo is up to par with your standards, or whether you POST a photo every day or just take them & post when you have a chance. Project 365 is pretty flexible--you can make your own rules. That said, there's something really spectacular about sticking to the basic conceit of a photo EVERY DAY for a year--after all, it's not just a number. I've taken hundreds of photos in one day when I'm traveling, It's the finished project, one day at a time, that motivated me to complete my project.
just in fact commented on a nother post... saying I'm 3 days off completing my second year....
to be honest, it's easy.. just take a photo. don't beat yourself up if it's a crap, boring, repeated pic... who cares.! It's only a fun website and thing to do...
yeah, I understand one wants always to take great shots, but that's not possible... just relax and enjoy learning your camera, taking photos,
i'd go as far to say, the interaction here is in fact more important to me than the quality of photo
@lotus1922 - thank you so much for commenting. You are so right! I've now realised that I need to this for me, and that I mustn't get pressured by achieving the perfect pic (whatever that actually means). I sure do want to feel pride and a sense of accomplishment at the end. So I've decided to plow on and upload 'something' each day. Thanks!
@bmnorthernlight - Aw thank you for your encouraging comments! Yep, I've decided to do this project my way, with my rules. I know I just can't keep feeling the same pressure I'd been feeling this past month! So I'm going to keep at it and get myself to the end!! x
@carrapeta00 - thank you so much Lara! I'm sorry to read you'd been away from here due to an accident. Yikes, that must have been hard, if you couldn't see well either.... I've decided to continue and just do it my way!!! Thanks for taking the time to comment!! x
@kdwy - thank you for taking the time to comment! You're right - this shouldn't create more stress than we can handle!! I've now realised I need to do this in my own way and not feel guilty! x
@kimmiesue me too. I'm just photographed out. I think the way out is to find your absolute favorites, post them, and say why they speak to you. Just a thought.
I think it's all been said already, all I'll say is ...sometimes the stuff we post WE think is non-ispirational and we strive too hard to be better than before, the reality is you can't be good every day with the normal daily pressures around you...and at some point even a photo you consider poor is inspirational to someone from whatever perspective! I'd not considered that until my followers pointed it out (saying they wish I had more uninspired days!!!) I love your work and glad it sounds like you're continuing. I'm starting my second year next week and will definitely be taking the andyc approach!!
I agree with the overall tone of the responses here. The project is for YOU to enjoy, not to get stressed out trying to follow some imaginary rule. What we have here is a very sensible and totally non-stressful guideline - to take one picture every day and upload one every day. It is not a competition to see who can outsmart everyone else by rushing to take and upload something to fit the calendar on the same day on each and every specific date ... so enjoy doing what you do best, and you will undoubtedly continue to give pleasure to others! Good luck, and do please carry on - in your own way,!
I'm sure this has been said, but I find the reciprocal commenting the hardest part. I appreciate those that look at my photos, but I am finding it really hard to comment on 50+ photos everyday and sometimes I don't feel genuine. But I feel bad about uploading and getting comments without giving back too. I've turned this back into a diary and doing it for myself, that is how I will finish. I'd love to do year 2, but I just don't know if I can. I'm glad you are continuing, do it for you and no one else
I complete project #1, and spent a lot of time (probably too much) on the site, look at photos, commenting, etc.
I took a break for 9 months after the first project. Found I missed the creativity that comes from having to take a photo per day (ironic but true; when you HAVE to get a shot, you set up creative photos that you wouldn't have thought of or bothered to before).
I'm on round #2 now, but I don't go through everyone else's photos and only comment when I happen to stumble on something I like. Much less pressure. The project is for me.
@wordpixman - Yes Arthur, you're SO right! Since yesterday, when I decided to plow on and do 365 my way (posting whatever whenever) I felt the weight lifted!! I really want this to be a passion not a chore and I know it will be from now on. Thank you for taking the time to comment!!
@cfitzgerald - You're right - I sure do need to do this for me!! I'd love to think about a 2nd year, because I love the diary aspect of 365, but I'll decide when the time comes as I'm really not sure whether I could complete it!! Thank you for commenting! x
kim, you are very skillful and creative, just wanted to throw my support behind your wonderful project! once you take the pressure off yourself, hopefully you will enjoy it again!! x
Kim, sorry to hear you too are a little disillusioned with this journey right now. I too am in the very same place. It is very time consuming and I struggled to spend the time to take photos I think are good, and to view and comment on all those who view my work and follow me. I have stepped back and am simplifying what I do. I am trying not to worry what anyone thinks of my work.
I really love your work, it is inspirational. That said, you have a very busy life outside of 365 so finding a balance you are happy with is key. I hope you work it out and continue, and try not to feel the pressure of the 'perfect photo' everyday!!
@clarek - Hey Clare! Yes, it really is time consuming. To get that 'perfect' pic and then to keep up with everyone's pics - well it was just getting too much. But now, after lots of encouraging comments and advice from awesome people on here (you too!) I'll keep going and just do what I can without the pressure! Thanks for taking the time to comment! xx
kim...i did not read all the comments above and i hope that i am not repeating someone...but really this project has to be about you and for you. It is hard to keep it all in perspective and balanced. I have obviously been struggling with that. I took over a week off....oh so liberating...you need to figure out how to achieve the pleasure of creating your art, sharing your art and appreciating others art without it becoming a chore or a burden. It is hard to strike that balance...really it is and i am struggling with it. I love what this project has done for me...i love all the people that i have met on here....i do not want to lose that. It is just about managing it so it works for you. Your art is amazing and it would be a shame for you not to share it with your followers...but it has to be fun and rewarding. Maybe try posting 3 days a week or something..but you have to release on the things that we tend to worry about....views, followers, favs etc...best of luck to you my dear...xoxo
Tweets ahoy!
Join the Group
Pin With Me
I rarely take a picture a day. That was definitely my intent when I started this project, but then when I was feeling pressure, someone told me, "It's your project. You make the rules. There's no right or wrong way to do this." I post a pic everyday, but I really try to take a bunch in one outing and then post from that outing for several days because I don't have time, nor do I have an interest in trying to get a photo a day. I don't love all of my photos and feel all "ugh" when I post some of them, but I'm always glad to get one up for the day.
I hope you stay!
All that being said, you do what is best for you, girl!!! :)
1. don't feel bad about fillers, nobody is perfect
2. Don't put pressure on yourself, do what you can, when you can.
3. Most people that "take a break" don't end up coming back, just an observation I have made....no hard facts to back it up
(I also think that this time of year, plus colds etc makes us all feel a bit despondent, I'm hanging on knowing it will help me through the winter!)
Don't go, I love your work, even if I don't have time to look at your pics everyday! But if you would decide to take a break, I would still follow you!
Whatever you decided, have fun. You take some truly stunning images.
@kimmiesue Fillers may be older shots to you but to us they are new. Change your rules and make the project work with you. Love your work.
@sunnygreenwood - Anne thank you!! Yep, it's so hard sometimes with the little guys and husband away a lot (meaning we don't get out to different places together much) I think I'd been getting bored with the same scenery. But I do have plenty of fillers...! x
@marlboromaam @debsphotos @raebell - thanks for your input ladies! I think I'll be changing the rules to suit me from now on!
@catwhiskers - thank you so much for your lovely comment! I think I'll stick around and make this work for me! You're right!
@orangecrush - Thanks Jerry! You're so right with the attempt to get the perfect pic etc! I'm always amazed and thrilled at the amount of wonderful, committed followers and really try to bring something better each time - which is a good thing for us all to do, it's how we improve isn't it - but I'm just not able to get to different places right now. I'm stuck with lagoon/baby/flower shots!!!! So I've decided to change the rules and, like you, take a bunch at a time when I can and spread them out! Thanks for taking the time to comment!
@ronah - thanks for taking the time to comment! Yep, I need to make this work for me and make it easier!! Thanks!
@filsie65 - Yes, I was feeling the pressure to get that perfect pic every day and wondered if I could actually keep that going...! But I just can't! So I've decided to not take the break but post when I can and use fillers when I have to. Thanks for your enouraging words Phil! x
You've made me realise that there are still loads of things I can take pics of even in one small place if I just look. And then not to feel guilty about using fillers! X
I recently was unable to take photos for nearly two weeks due to poor health. After that break I couldn't wait to pick up my camera. It was hard to catch up from being away that long, but a week would have easier. I still have crap days since I've been back, but most days I'm much more motivated even as I'm still not quite feeling like myself.
@spthorne - Simon thank you! I appreciate your words! x
I think real creative minds are prone to compulsive thinking - driven to pursue their passion. With that comes burnout and anxiety over whether or not what you're doing today is better than what you did yesterday, and other nuances of competition with self and others. For this type of OCD personality, living in normal surroundings, there can't possibly be enough stimulating and fascinating photographic subjects to suit some of us, every single day!
I found myself becoming worried about where my next shot was coming from. Then, I thought about where my past shots have come from and I realized I had nothing to do with any of it, except that I took my camera with me everywhere I went and made sure I was ready. I do make time as often as my schedule will allow to venture to local spots known to hold the photo subjects of liking; however, some of the best shots I've taken have been pure luck and happenstance.
My advice - don't make photo-taking into a deliberate exercise. Simply trust your eye to find worthy subjects as you go through your days, and make darn sure you have a camera with a charged battery and a memory card (how often have I put my lens on something only to realize the card slot is empty - ARGH!) and start snapping! The rest will take care of itself. Relax, have fun, and don't stop - if you do, you will for sure get no photos, and what obsessive compulsive personality can live with THAT?!! :-)
If the photo is funny or for fun, that is one thing and certainly a "why not upload" answer is reasonable. But if the upload is "just to get one in", I would say, take the day off, do something more useful, creative, or fun. You are not uploading for anyone except yourself and if you contribute junk, it wastes the time of others that respect your work,[ and if it is not fun or useful to you, there is no reason to do it].
There is no rule that says one MUST have taken the photo you upload on that day, nor do you have to take pictures every day. However, the project gets you thinking about taking photos every day, and looking at things in a compositional way, but often ones best work comes in bunches. One does not have to apologize for using a photo from a prior day, because it is YOUR PROJECT, not someone elses and you can do it as you want to do.
So, I would say, forget about the idea of having to upload daily, keep thinking about taking shots and get out to do so whenever you can, but to upload what you consider to be junk [or is an unpleasant effort] wastes your own time and everyone elses. JMO.
Thanks for all of your contributions I hope you stay around. // Don Roos
Your words are really encouraging and kind. Thank you. This is turning into a good day! x
I still take photos everyday for my project because for *me* it's about the discipline of snapping *something* every day, whether I feel like it or not, whether it's crap or not. I know not every photo I take will be spectacular, and that's OK with me because I've defined 365 for training my creative eye to notice what's interesting about each day; it's also a form of therapy.
That being said, it's YOUR project, and ultimately you are the only one you have to answer to for it. Not the viewers and followers, no matter how supportive and wonderful they are--- they are a nice side bonus. As long as YOU can look at your project with a smile of pride and accomplishment, that is all that matters, and if getting to that point means taking a break, or only taking photos on days you feel like you're "in the zone", it is your prerogative to do so.
Sorry to be so long-winded but creative frustration is one of my "pet" topics :) Good luck and keep that creative head up!
I started this project to have a regular motivation to get used to my new DSLR, but I also liked the idea that it is a photo diary for me, so some days there will be pictures that maybe have more personal meaning than trying to produce a fantastic photograph...one of the blank days my washing machine broke down and my sister said she was looking forward to pics of old and new washing machine. I had never considered it at the time but that would've been so fitting! Next time (and that will only be the toaster breaking down!!) I shall document it :-)
Hope you find the right decision for you! I shall be looking forward to your pictures as and when they appear in my newsfeed!
When I had my accident in August it was very hard for me to keep up with the project... I was not seeing well, had no inspiration and somehow was feeling enslaved by the project... I took more than a month break and for my surprise I lost just one or two followers... now that I am back at the project I feel it was really good to take that break.
I am now filling up the empty spaces with pics that were wasted here... I hate the empty spaces ;(
If you take a break I will miss your pics... but will wait patiently your coming back ;)
I think the project shouldn't create stress in your life. Whether that means not worrying about repeating the same subject, or if the photo is up to par with your standards, or whether you POST a photo every day or just take them & post when you have a chance. Project 365 is pretty flexible--you can make your own rules. That said, there's something really spectacular about sticking to the basic conceit of a photo EVERY DAY for a year--after all, it's not just a number. I've taken hundreds of photos in one day when I'm traveling, It's the finished project, one day at a time, that motivated me to complete my project.
to be honest, it's easy.. just take a photo. don't beat yourself up if it's a crap, boring, repeated pic... who cares.! It's only a fun website and thing to do...
yeah, I understand one wants always to take great shots, but that's not possible... just relax and enjoy learning your camera, taking photos,
i'd go as far to say, the interaction here is in fact more important to me than the quality of photo
I took a break for 9 months after the first project. Found I missed the creativity that comes from having to take a photo per day (ironic but true; when you HAVE to get a shot, you set up creative photos that you wouldn't have thought of or bothered to before).
I'm on round #2 now, but I don't go through everyone else's photos and only comment when I happen to stumble on something I like. Much less pressure. The project is for me.
I really love your work, it is inspirational. That said, you have a very busy life outside of 365 so finding a balance you are happy with is key. I hope you work it out and continue, and try not to feel the pressure of the 'perfect photo' everyday!!