Jan 2, 2013

Reflections

I know it's been awfully quiet around these parts -- I've been thinking a lot over the past few weeks about trying to hone my photography focus as I go forward. 2012 was my first full year in business and while I am extremely grateful for all the different jobs I took on, I often felt like I was spreading myself too thin. I know I will have to work extra hard this year if I want to get to where I want to be, and I think part of that will involve saying "no" a lot more to projects that may derail my focus and energy. Freelancing is still tricky to me -- I stress when I am idling and stress when I'm overbooked. How does one ever find the right balance? (Or hell, does one EVER?)

For now, a few black and white film images of cliché NYC from my Ricoh.

24 comments :

  1. Hi there ! I think I understood by what do you mean by stressed in both the states. I guess you use your idle phase very well by this beautiful blog area and treating us visually (if you do so mostly in the idle state ;).
    Wish you a more fruitful business year ! :)
    These pictures are so simple and contended! Thanks for sharing.

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  2. i feel exactly the same! and i guess i'll never find that relaxed way of take it easy..but that is the challenge!
    so...what can i say?
    Lots of work, luck and patience to you this new year!

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  3. Gorgeous images, as always. I understand the need to try and find the balance, it's always tough. I think it's supposed to be.

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  4. I get stressed both ways also. Don't fret, you will rock it, you are amazing!

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  5. Happy new year! Gorgeous photos from NYC! I was just there but it looks so beautiful in black and white. I always have a soft spot for Manhattan.

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  6. I hope your photography flourishes this year! Happy new year!

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  7. I completely understand what you mean. I've started to say 'no' too on last couple of projects that I know isn't something that I'll enjoy doing. Good on ya Alice, we all believe in you. All the best with the New Year.

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  8. Freelancing is tricky but you'll find your balance. B/W pictures were great, by the way, even if we've all seen the Flat Iron, cast iron Soho buildings and the Brooklyn Bridge. They are so beautiful - who could even get tired of them?

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  9. Everyone is always saying how life is about balance but no one says how to achieve that balance! It's something I'm still learning too. Can't wait to see what 2013 has in store for you Alice.

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  10. I used to freelance full time, so I know how you're feeling. I'd advise you to stick with projects that you're most passionate about. I actually wrote a post recently on my whole experience being a freelancer for two years. It was quite an adventure and I'm glad I did it! I look forward to seeing your work this year.

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  11. adore these BWs! I know you'll find a balance - just recognizing that you need that balance is an important first step. Happy 2013!

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  12. Alice HAPPY NEW YEAR IN 2013.
    May your New Year be filled with joy and happiness!
    Wishing You a happy and prosperous New Year!
    I wish you a holiday season that is filled with wonder and delight!
    From.. Alain Alexandre
    Chiang Rai Thailand

    It's a gorgeous black and white!

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  13. Happy New Year Alice, hope you find your balance & have a wonderful 2013 :)

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  14. Happy New Year! great photos as always

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  15. Although saying "No" can be scary, so can "Yes" if you're terrified of being overly busy. Freelancing does indeed take a solid amount of confidence, but I think just as important is staying humble which is something that gets lost so quickly in the photography biz. Stay true to what makes you most happy and has you creating your absolute best. If you need or want either of those things to change, you are in control of that! I've learned to also be patient which is typically something I am SO not. I've also learned to enjoy the company and friendships of a select group of creatives that I can learn and grow and enjoy this business with. Leaving a full-time job managing an office that I adored was of course joyful but too difficult in it's own ways, one of which losing that sense of comradeship with a 'team', but I have my own small team now which has so many more advantages and brought joys far beyond what my previous job did. :). Your photography speaks for itself and that is absolutely most important. All the rest will come if you continuing creating fab work! Stay honest and follow your instincts; you've got everything it takes I know it!

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  16. I'm so happy for you that things have taken off in your business. After all these years of following your blog, it was of course no surprise to me that people love your work! I think finding your balance or as close to it as possible, is a worthy goal. You want to enjoy the benefits of self employment. One thing I find that helps is that one day of the week I never make appointments of any kind and I don't answer the phone. That one day is sacred for just me and no talking, every single week. I love it.

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  17. Alice, clearly you are very talented and have a bright future ahead. We all struggle with balancing, but it's a skill that will come with time, as you get to know your job better as well as yourself. Happy new year :)

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  18. hope your 2013 is wonderful, Alice!

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  19. You've been an inspiration to me, Alice. Striking out on your own and leaving a somewhat secure employment is always scary but you did it with such aplomb. Striking a good balance is easier said than done. It's something I've always struggled with. BUT busy is good! It means you're in demand :D

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  20. Beautiful! Even as a resident I never get tired of everything cliché New York.

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  21. Being a freelancer in film/tv (for now), I understand exactly what you mean. I'm so antsy when I'm not busy, and then I hate everything when things are overwhelming and stressful.

    Beautiful shots, as always! :)

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  22. Gorgeous images!!

    xo
    Hailey
    www.somethingdevineblog.com

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