2012 Janet Hovde
A few weeks ago, I completed a small commissioned art-healing quilt on Wednesday morning. I wanted a photo taken before I was scheduled to present the quilt to its owner on Friday. I had spoken with my photographer the previous week about this tight turnaround time to see if she could make it work with her schedule. She thought she could make it work. I dropped off the commissioned piece, along with another completed piece and several little paintings. She called me Wednesday afternoon (yes, the same day!), having all the photos completed.
I have tried to take photos of my work. Others, who are a few steps ahead of me, have shared their knowledge with me. I don’t have the lighting, the photo editing, or the interest in investing in photography-of-art skills. I continue to take photos of my work, especially in the art-in-process stages, and sometimes they are just fine for things like my blog (where a high resolution photo is not needed). But when it comes to entering art shows, it is helpful to have photos that show my work really well. I looked for a professional photographer, but didn’t have the clarity to follow through with scheduling photos.
And then, plop! Into my lap came an art photographer. A client had a client who was expanding her photography business, and she was interested in exploring the market of fiber artists. I shared information about local organizations, and what I had learned about the differences in quilt show and art show requirements. Then we explored the possibilities around exchanging services. I am now happily getting my art photographed every month. I am so satisfied with the photos and with her insights. I share my services with her. And I can continue to pour my energy into my healing and my art work, rather than pushing myself to learn skills that are not my passion. Finding her was effortless, the sharing of our services is delightful, and the whole experience is one of ease.
Too often, I push myself. Too often, I feel obligated to try someone else’s ______ (schedule, style of relating, art form, diet, etc.) It is easy to be distracted from my own path. Sometimes, I remember to pause, breathe, and identify the next appropriate action (or inaction!) for me in this moment.
I just loved hearing how finding an art photographer fell into your lap. It happened for a reason, just like you are meant to focus more on your gifts and talents and the things that you love to do. So often we think we have to do it all. Thank you for showing us it doesn’t have to be so.
Suzanne, You make some good points. Now to remember my own words . . . 🙂
It is so important to learn this! I have done this with electrical and plumbing work on my house. I can do it, but not very well. Best to leave some things to those who do them well to leave more room to have fun with your own talents!
Amy, I am impressed that you have skills in these areas! And yes, let’s have FUN as we follow our gifts.
Oh, Janet! I so needed this. I fall into that trap daily!
You, too!
Great thoughts here, Janet! I also fall into that mindset. Waaaay too often. I’ve been getting messages about this a lot lately. Thinking and feeling it might be time to hire some things out!
You are a woman of many talents, Michele, I’d be surprised is you didn’t fall into that mindset at least some of the time!
This speaks so loudly to me, Janet. Learning to let go, to let other people shine where I have no interest in shining, has been one of the most liberating lessons as I build my business.