A little over a year ago, the concept of a “blog” was entirely alien to me. I distinctly recall the mild embarrassment of not knowing what it was, leading me to discreetly turn to Google for answers. Fast forward to today, and I’ve not only started my own blog, but I’ve also been inundated with questions from curious friends: “What exactly are you doing?” “What is a blog?” “What’s the purpose behind it?” And perhaps the most intriguing, “What’s a Hat Head?” This journey from digital novice to active blogger has been nothing short of transformative, revealing a profound purpose that extends far beyond just words on a screen.

From Amateur Snaps to Passion Project: My Blogging and Photography Journey

For years, a torrent of creative ideas has flowed through my mind – a phenomenon some might jokingly refer to as ‘voices,’ but which I recognized as an insistent urge to create. The primary impetus for finally launching this blog was to establish a dedicated creative outlet, with a significant focus on photography. Let me be clear: this wasn’t born out of an illusion of being a master photographer showcasing breathtaking work. Quite the opposite. My motivation stemmed from a deep-seated desire to become a great photographer. To this day, I hesitate to formally call myself a photographer; I still introduce it as a hobby, an amateur pursuit with an immense ocean of knowledge yet to be explored.

The digital world abounds with awe-inspiring photography. Daily, I find myself captivated and inspired by the sheer talent and creativity displayed across various platforms. This constant exposure to excellence serves as a powerful motivator, continuously pushing me to refine my skills and delve deeper into the art form. The journey, I’ve found, is as much about inspiration as it is about perspiration.

The Genesis of a Creative Revival: Finding Purpose Behind the Lens

Before embarking on this blogging adventure, my camera roll was a predictable collection: countless snapshots of my children, interspersed with an exhaustive botanical inventory of every flower, plant, and industrious insect inhabiting our yard. While these subjects were undeniably lovely, a sense of stagnation began to creep in. My children, ever so dramatic, would groan audibly at the sight of my camera, a clear signal that my photographic muse, and theirs, was waning. Soon, weeks would pass without me picking up my camera, a disheartening trend that forced a crucial realization: I could either let this cherished hobby fade into obscurity or find a new pathway forward.

The path forward necessitated a purpose, a driving force to reignite my passion. My mind was brimming with nascent, creative ideas for channeling my photography – I even briefly considered entering an art show. However, each potential avenue seemed to be tethered by external constraints: financial costs, the expectations of others, or a need for external validation. Then, a profound realization struck me with the clarity of a flashbulb.

Why not forge my own content? Why not dictate my own purpose and establish my own compelling reasons to capture more images? The idea of “putting myself out there” for the entire world to scrutinize was undeniably daunting. It was an obstacle that loomed large, challenging my comfort zone. Yet, simultaneously, the thought of an audience, however small, observing my progress became a powerful impetus. It instilled a sense of accountability, ensuring I would consistently strive for my absolute best. What better crucible for skill development? Even if only three individuals viewed my work and offered feedback, that would be three more engaged eyes than before, providing invaluable perspectives and encouragement.

Blogging as a Photographic Catalyst: Diverse Subjects and Continuous Learning

Now, every time I retrieve my camera, it’s accompanied by a clear goal, a specific reason, a renewed sense of purpose. My children still occasionally emit theatrical moans, but they quickly learn they aren’t the primary targets – though I cunningly manage to capture a few candid shots of them every now and then. This shift in mindset, from aimless snapping to purposeful shooting, has been pivotal.

Since venturing into the vibrant world of blogging, my photographic subjects have diversified exponentially. I’ve found myself capturing an array of images that, in a pre-blogging existence, I likely wouldn’t have even considered worthy of a glance. This expansion of vision has been incredibly enriching, pushing me to see beauty and interest in the most unexpected places.

For instance, my new tennis shoes became a surprisingly engaging subject, forcing me to think about composition, lighting, and texture in a utilitarian context.

The intricate, decaying guts of an old piano offered a fascinating exploration of forgotten beauty, revealing complex mechanics and a rich history through the lens.

Some truly adorable subjects, affectionately dubbed “cutie pies,” provided opportunities to capture expressions and personalities, honing my portraiture skills in a natural setting.

Majestic mountains challenged me to capture grand landscapes, grappling with expansive vistas and the subtle interplay of light and shadow.

And, of course, a veritable feast of food. Photographing culinary creations, especially dishes like black bean dip and hummus – which, let’s be honest, aren’t inherently photogenic – presents a unique set of challenges. The endeavor to transform something aesthetically unappealing into an appetizing image teaches invaluable lessons in lighting, styling, and visual storytelling. With each click of the shutter, whether consciously or subconsciously, I absorb new insights, refine existing skills, and tuck away lessons for future applications. My ultimate aspiration is to look back a decade from now and exclaim, “Wow, Amy, you truly were ‘stinkin’ it up’ back then! Look how far you’ve come!”

Demystifying Photography: Tips from an Enthusiast

Since the inception of She Wears Many Hats, I’ve received numerous emails inquiring about photography equipment and tips. Each time, I’m genuinely surprised and wonder if I’m somehow inadvertently misleading people. So, before proceeding, let me unequivocally state again: I am an amateur. I am not an expert. I have a vast amount to learn and discover. However, I’m happy to share my humble insights and the lessons I’ve gathered on my journey.

Gear Guide: Essential Equipment for Aspiring Photographers

My Camera & Lenses: I currently shoot with a basic Nikon D50, a camera that’s nearly five years old and no longer in production. My aspiration for the near future is an upgrade to a Nikon D300 – a photographer can dream, right? My go-to lens, the workhorse of my kit, is a Nikkor 50mm 1.4. While I possess a few other lenses, I rarely use them after experiencing the versatility and quality of the 50mm 1.4. When it comes to investing in lenses, it’s prudent to first identify your predominant photographic subjects. However, the 50mm 1.4 (or its slightly more affordable sibling, the 1.8) is, in my humble opinion, an indispensable lens that every aspiring photographer should own. Its ability to create beautiful bokeh and perform well in low light makes it incredibly versatile for portraits, food, and general photography.

Mastering Your Camera: The Manual is Your Map

Read Your Camera’s Manual: I know, it sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry, but trust me, your camera’s manual is an invaluable resource. How else will you uncover the full spectrum of its capabilities and nuances? It’s the key to unlocking hidden features and understanding the intricate workings of your device. Make it a habit to delve into its pages, especially when you encounter a new function or technique. And a practical tip: always pack it when you travel; you never know when you’ll need to reference it on the go.
Invest in a Good Photography Book: For beginners or those who haven’t had formal photography training, a comprehensive photography book is an excellent companion to your camera manual. These books bridge the gap between technical specifications and artistic application. One title I personally own and frequently recommend, even as a gift, is Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. While countless excellent photography books exist, this one stands out for its clarity and practical approach, serving as an excellent primer for novices or a refreshing review for those needing a refresher. Plus, it’s filled with illustrative pictures, making complex concepts much easier to grasp.
Truly Know Your Camera: Beyond just reading the manual, it’s imperative to actively engage with your camera and understand its operational limits. Push its boundaries! Even if you own a simple “point and shoot” camera, explore its settings beyond the automatic mode. If available, switch to manual mode and consciously learn to control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This hands-on experimentation is crucial for developing an intuitive understanding of how these elements interact to create your desired image.

The Art of Composition: Framing Your Vision

Master Basic Principles of Photography: While expensive equipment can undoubtedly enhance clarity and sharpness, no amount of sophisticated gear can compensate for poor composition. Learning to “see” photographically means understanding how to frame your shot effectively through the lens. Familiarize yourself with fundamental compositional guidelines like the Rule of Thirds, leading lines, negative space, and natural framing. These principles are not rigid rules but powerful tools to guide the viewer’s eye and create more impactful images. Another excellent resource on this topic, from the same author, Bryan Peterson, is Learning to See Creatively, which helps cultivate a more artistic eye.
Practice Relentlessly: Take Lots of Pictures: This is perhaps the most crucial advice: take countless pictures. Lots and lots. Every single day, if possible. Just like any other talent or skill, consistent practice is the only true pathway to improvement and growth. Set a personal goal to capture at least one photograph daily. This consistent engagement is the fastest way to develop a deep, intuitive feel for your camera and any new lenses you acquire. When photographing your latest culinary creation for a blog post or capturing Aunt Judy’s charming goats, always take more pictures than you think you’ll need. Experiment with diverse angles, varied settings, and different lighting conditions until you fully grasp the nuances of your camera. The immense beauty of digital photography lies in the absence of wasted film, eliminating any excuse not to experiment boldly and frequently.

So, there you have it – my two cents on the art of photography. I genuinely hope these insights prove helpful in your own creative pursuits.

Beyond the Lens: Community and Connection

While photography served as the initial spark for me to ignite this blog, an unforeseen and immensely gratifying benefit has been the incredible friendships forged along the way. Connecting with such sweet, supportive individuals from all corners of the globe has been an absolute delight. Had I known the profound joy and camaraderie that blogging would bring, I would have embarked on this journey much, much sooner. It has truly been a blast, adding an unexpected layer of richness to my life.

Embrace Your Passions Today: A Concluding Message

And now, if you’ll indulge me, I’ll step onto my little soapbox for a moment. Whether your passion lies in blogging, writing, gardening, painting, music, or any other gift that stirs your soul, please, do not wait. Do not postpone sharing your unique talents until every single detail is meticulously arranged, until circumstances are perfectly aligned, or until you believe you’ve attained an expert level worthy of public display. Start today. Make the conscious effort to carve out time to pursue your passions. Our innate gifts were not bestowed upon us to be kept dormant for a later, unspecified date, nor are they meant to be utilized only once perfected. Let them flourish. Do not let them go to waste.

So, I pose these questions to you, my dear readers: Why do you blog? Or, what drives you to pursue your particular passions? Are you actively nurturing and utilizing your gifts and talents every single day? Share your story.

Have a wonderfully fantabulous day!