I can’t believe the first month of the year is already almost over, and so far, things are actually looking up! I started 2020 with a positive outlook and the resolve to be more productive this year, as well as to make a conscious effort to step further out of my comfort zone.
As a photographer and a banker, I need to stay healthy for myself so I can interact with people properly. I am still running and working out almost daily, as well as maintaining my intermittent fasting, in which I stop eating at 8 p.m. and start eating at 2 p.m. the following day. However, I tend to indulge when I am breaking my fast, so I still need to work on that! I also decided to take personal development courses offered through my full-time job, which I am so grateful for. And of course, winter is still upon us, so I continue to go snowboarding with my partner every weekend, and I would say I am definitely better than I was five years ago. Simon tells me I no longer give him a chance to catch his breath because I’ve gotten so much faster!
On the creative side of things, I am working with a fewwomen in the Sundre area to come up with a project to empower women. I recently started trying boudoir as well as glamour photography for the first time, and I think my heart leans towards these styles. I’ll dive into more details about the difference between the two another time. I had fun working with these women, and learned a lot about posing, lighting and editing. I am still actively watching instructional videos in Creativelive and Youtube so I can learn more about my art.
As for my business, I recently renewed my license for another year and am also working to improve my marketing. I just finished updating my webpage, although I am still not fully satisfied! So the site remains a work in progress. Maybe in time, I can hire a professional developer to fine tune it. But for now, my limited knowledge seems to be doing the trick. This summer, I have two events lined up, which I am looking forward to — I cannot wait to share those experiences with you guys! Although admittedly a bit nervous, I’m more excited than anything else, and I’m really looking forward to posting the finished work.
Looking back at 2019, I think my first year as an active photographer taught me a lot. The biggest lesson for me was learning not to be so hard on myself. This year, I am going to forgive myself for making honest mistakes, because I firmly believe that in order to grow as a person, you have to allow room for failures that you can turn into valuable experience, which will enhance your body of knowledge, hone your skills, and improve your craft.
This is a year for positivity and inspiration. I know that is easier said than done, but we all have to try. I would like to hear what most of you are working on and what you’ve accomplished so far. Are you learning a new language, pursuing an educational passion to get a certificate or license in a particular field, or simply exploring other options that appeal to you? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts. Feel free to leave a comment below, email me at contact@mailaleoncito.com or through FB, Twitter or IG. There are plenty of others out there who would benefit from hearing your story, and I am definitely one of those people!
