We are using our second bonus word today in honor of a big event in my photographic journey- my one year anniversary of joining the local camera club. Joining the Pocono Photo Club was one of the furthest things from my mind back in 2010 when I started the 365 Project. But I'm glad to say that because of many great followers here and so much positive feedback, I finally got the courage to check it out. Some of you may remember that my first meeting was a real eye-opener! I decided I liked it and would keep going- but also keep a low profile- a very low profile!
That lasted for 1 meeting! When a need arose for a secretary to take notes during the Executive Committee meetings, I thought it didn't sound too hard and I'd be happy to help in a role like that because it was in the background. That lasted for 1 meeting as well!
First the former secretary (who had "retired") decided she still wanted to fill the role, but the folks on the committee said, "Stay on- we'll find something for you to do". The following meeting, conversation came up about "field trips" and how they weren't working under the old guidelines. Guess who made a suggestion that grew into a "position" on the executive committee! We adopted a new name (Shoot Outs) and made them very casual and so far there's been a fair amount of success with them.
That went well for 3 months worth of meetings until one night our speaker coordinator said "We need someone for October..." At which point the president decided I should speak about my adventures in point and shoot photography. Well, I am no longer in a low key position or behind the scenes role- I'm a full-fledged speaker! It was both nerve-wracking and fun to share some of the things I've learned over the years. And I gave a great plug for 365 Project and the impact its had on my ability and confidence.
So today the Tribe (as Francoise calls them) and I are celebrating my first anniversary and first speaking engagement at Pocono Photo Club! The critters are posing in front of a computer screen with thumbnails of all the pictures I used during my presentation.
I'm posting this early as we're off to see the grands tomorrow.
Well that is quite a story of your journey in the camera club -congrats for the October word anniversary. Good for them to spot your talent so early :)
Thank you Kerri, Suse, Nicole, Francoise, and Rick! I'm looking at your names and realizing that you all represent my time here on 365 with two from my early days and two from more recent days. You've all played a significant part in helping me to become more confident and to find "my voice" in photography- a role for which I will always be grateful!
Happy anniversary! Wonderful narrative! I would never be able to do public speaking in any way shape or manner. So you have my thumbs up for sure. Well done!
Great shot. I loved your narrative. Congratulations on your one year anniversary. It sounds like your photo club has been good for you and you have been good for the club.
@janiskay Thank you Janice! Believe me- I never thought to myself when I was younger, "Gee, I'd like to grow up and get into public speaking some day." Haha! I was (and still am to some extent) quite shy. But I remember my mom always singing to me a tune from "The King and I": Whenever I feel afraid, I hold my head erect and whistle a happy tune so no one will suspect, I'm afraid..." I guess it just stuck with me to not let my shyness or fear stop me from trying or speaking up. So when I say, "If I can do it; you can do it!" I really mean it! @daisymiller Thank you Daisy! Yes, it's been a good match. But truth be told I would never have considered joining or even going without the things I've learned here on 365. This community is amazingly supportive! @ceilidh Thank you Margaret! @prttblues Thank you Bev! Well, I live a far from charmed life, that's for sure! But, I have grown far enough out of my shyness to at least try. And thanks to a couple theater tricks- I actually look like I'm confident and know what I'm doing! lol
October 28th, 2014
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Thank you Kerri, Suse, Nicole, Francoise, and Rick! I'm looking at your names and realizing that you all represent my time here on 365 with two from my early days and two from more recent days. You've all played a significant part in helping me to become more confident and to find "my voice" in photography- a role for which I will always be grateful!
@daisymiller Thank you Daisy! Yes, it's been a good match. But truth be told I would never have considered joining or even going without the things I've learned here on 365. This community is amazingly supportive!
@ceilidh Thank you Margaret!
@prttblues Thank you Bev! Well, I live a far from charmed life, that's for sure! But, I have grown far enough out of my shyness to at least try. And thanks to a couple theater tricks- I actually look like I'm confident and know what I'm doing! lol