Long time photographer as a full time mom

[AHL]

Anita, we're happy to have you! Welcome again.
I think the question you formulate there is very interesting indeed; I'd encourage you to post it as a thread, perhaps say a few words about what triggers you to ask the question. And then see how the exchange unfolds. I would suggest either of these two forums:

Ethics and Philosophy

Discuss the ethics and philosophy of photography.

www.photrio.com

Presentation & Marketing

Presentation discussion such as mounting methods, materials, display, marketing, and sales..

www.photrio.com

Thank you. I will post this question as the input will be helpful and interesting to me as it’s been one of long standing interest.
I appreciate your help
Anita

 

[Sirius Glass]

Welcome to Photrio!

Some photography clubs may still have critique session. Look up those local to you and ask.

 

[Andrew O'Neill]

A warm welcome to Photrio! Go Jays indeed!

 

[jeffreyg]

Anita
Just to put forth some ideas to get the juices flowing. Consider donating a print or two to a local charity auction, approach a local bank to display some of your photographs in a lobby or such, the same for a hospital or office building that have some empty walls and even an airport. You might contact a youth group and offer to teach an under served child darkroom procedures or other photography techniques. Galleries are in business to make money and can be very picky.
As far as finding new subjects you can try a different technique with previous images such as an alternate process. Look around your house for something with an interesting shape. Some years ago my wife was going to discard an old wok that had a great patina. I kept it and started using it for a background and photographed fruits, vegetables and common objects that fit inside it. I used my 4x5 and made pt/pd prints. Some were displayed in a show at a popular frame shop and well known Cuban American photographer (the late) Mario Algaze who I knew asked me to print a limited edition of four of his own favorite images (12 numbered, an artist proof and printer's proof of each). It was a years long project. I wasn't paid but received three sets and the printer's proofs. Each print now goes for $2500-4000 in galleries. (i have 12 numbered prints that was my payment) Anyone interested
I'm sure there will be more suggestions and you will be able to share your talents.

ABOUT | JEFFREY GLASSER

http.//www.sculptureandphotography.com/

 

[pbromaghin]

You might do well to scan a print or 2 and upload to the APUG Photrio gallery for people to see and comment.

 

[AHL]

Anita
Just to put forth some ideas to get the juices flowing. Consider donating a print or two to a local charity auction, approach a local bank to display some of your photographs in a lobby or such, the same for a hospital or office building that have some empty walls and even an airport. You might contact a youth group and offer to teach an under served child darkroom procedures or other photography techniques. Galleries are in business to make money and can be very picky.
As far as finding new subjects you can try a different technique with previous images such as an alternate process. Look around your house for something with an interesting shape. Some years ago my wife was going to discard an old wok that had a great patina. I kept it and started using it for a background and photographed fruits, vegetables and common objects that fit inside it. I used my 4x5 and made pt/pd prints. Some were displayed in a show at a popular frame shop and well known Cuban American photographer (the late) Mario Algaze who I knew asked me to print a limited edition of four of his own favorite images (12 numbered, an artist proof and printer's proof of each). It was a years long project. I wasn't paid but received three sets and the printer's proofs. Each print now goes for $2500-4000 in galleries. (i have 12 numbered prints that was my payment) Anyone interested
I'm sure there will be more suggestions and you will be able to share your talents.

ABOUT | JEFFREY GLASSER

http.//www.sculptureandphotography.com/

Thank you for the time you spent replying to my dilemma. I think my personality prevents me from putting myself out there.
I feel it’s just not necessary for me financially and although feedback would be helpful I’m not sure I want to deal with it either positive or negative. I know I’m somewhat too much in my own head. I’m at a crossroads and I feel like a hopeless country song. Creative motivation is my biggest hurdle and what I am most concerned with. I have followed your suggestions in years past and I require challenges to be creative. My present lifestyle doesn’t allow for many challenges although that may be me making excuses!!
Thanks for your kind suggestions
Anita

 

[Hassasin]

Thanks!! My insecurities reveal themselves!! Although I will be the first to admit I am difficult in all areas but most especially in my approach to photography!!
Thanks for the input
Anita

My life experience taught me first to be true to myself, the only way I find to be happy with what I do, no matter what that might be. Your entry suggests to me you think alike. And if you apply same to your photography, it must be showing through it too. Can't wait to see what you do.

 

[ezphotolessons]

Thanks for the input. You are so right in your response. It’s raining here so although I was hoping to go photograph some decorated homes for Halloween just to get me doing something that will have to wait! I have done a lot of most things in photography ie the usual stuff. I find I am lacking in challenging subjects. It has been awhile I am hoping communicating with others helps me find my way out of this.
Thanks again
Anita

Anita:
What would you consider unusual and challenging ? Subjects aren't really that challenging, it's how you approach them that makes the challenge.

 

[jeffreyg]

I’m not trying to be a pest. Why not photograph the Halloween decorations from inside your car. Twenty years ago I was photographing things painted on walls. Some of the areas I went in were not where you would be out on the street with a camera. I was using medium format and a handheld spot meter. I would open the window and take a reading and then close the window and set the camera. Then open the window, focus and shoot.

 

[AHL]

Welcome to Photrio!

Some photography clubs may still have critique session. Look up those local to you and ask.

My problem is I’m not a joiner. Becoming a member of this site has been a huge leap for me. When my children were small I took photojournalism courses at our local college and one was a critique course which I truly enjoyed. However no more darkrooms , instructors have retired or passed and I feel film cameras have lost their place in the arts community.
Because my photos reflect my personal journey sometimes directly I hesitate to to show to just anyone
I live with this dilemma of my own making but hopefully I can explore creatively with my camera again
Thanks for your insight
Anita

 

[AHL]

I’m not trying to be a pest. Why not photograph the Halloween decorations from inside your car. Twenty years ago I was photographing things painted on walls. Some of the areas I went in were not where you would be out on the street with a camera. I was using medium format and a handheld spot meter. I would open the window and take a reading and then close the window and set the camera. Then open the window, focus and shoot.

You are being kind to offer advice. Yesterday was a thinking day. I thought and read Black and White magazine back issues for the afternoon and allowing myself to think. Today hopefully I will Do!
Thank you.
Anita

 

[AHL]

Anita:
What would you consider unusual and challenging ? Subjects aren't really that challenging, it's how you approach them that makes the challenge.

It’s a matter of been there done that and of course my state of mind. You are right I just have to get out there and do it. Today may be that day!!
Thanks
Anita

 

[AHL]

My life experience taught me first to be true to myself, the only way I find to be happy with what I do, no matter what that might be. Your entry suggests to me you think alike. And if you apply same to your photography, it must be showing through it too. Can't wait to see what you do.

When I figure out this site and how to post a few photos I feel all of you on this site seem to be sympathetic to others work and struggles. Thanks for the support
Anita

 

[AHL]

You might do well to scan a print or 2 and upload to the APUG Photrio gallery for people to see and comment.

Thanks for suggesting I post photos. I in future will as I feel this site shares my love of photography. Just need to figure out out scanning etc.
Anita

 

[koraks]

Because my photos reflect my personal journey sometimes directly I hesitate to to show to just anyone

I understand on the one hand. And exactly because of what you say, I'd be interested in seeing them. I have nothing against generic landscapes, still lifes and whatnot. It's the kind of stuff I do. But it's anonymous; it doesn't tell much of a story. It's personal alright, but in all honesty, connecting a story to it is a stretch. I suspect your case is different. It sounds to me like you do have a story to tell and one of the ways (perhaps the only?) you're comfortable 'writing it down' is through photography.

As to the critique class - I imagine that sort of thing can make one feel pretty vulnerable. You mention you enjoyed it; what made it rewarding for you, and what made you feel safe sharing your work there?

 

[Hassasin]

Thanks for suggesting I post photos. I in future will as I feel this site shares my love of photography. Just need to figure out out scanning etc.
Anita

You can use phone to do well enough for this purpose and until you get a better set up

 

[gary mulder]

Take the plunge

 

[AHL]

Take the plunge

Wow wonderful!! Thanks for sharing !

 

[AHL]

You can use phone to do well enough for this purpose and until you get a better set up

 

[AHL]

Thanks. I’m trying. Excuse the errors!!!

 

[ezphotolessons]

It’s a matter of been there done that and of course my state of mind. You are right I just have to get out there and do it. Today may be that day!!
Thanks
Anita

HI Anita:

Yes seize the day!