In 2009, when I began my first 365 photo a day project and entered the wonderful world of photography, I never realized the soulful work that would also come out of my experience. I picked up my point and shoot camera on Day 1 (March 1st 2009) with a mission to document life and take better photos. Little did I know the transformation that would happen inside as my camera was there by my side to help me process the joy of our first pregnancy, the devastation when we lost it 20 weeks later, the anxiety that settled in during pregnancy #2, the relief during the birth our healthy baby girl, and the whirlwind of life changes that followed. 

The camera has become my best friend. A source of comfort, of healing, and love. My camera provides the way for me to remain grateful and grounded, to discover and create, and to remember all the pieces of my life.

And my love of photography became the most clear this fall when my 3 year old lovingly picked up her own camera and began snapping away at her stuffed animals, plastic figurines, and the flowers and trees in our front yard. 

She’s seen her mom blossom into a confident role model who is embracing a passion she loves. She’s watching her mom become exactly who she want to be in life. And she’s seeing her reach for the stars while encoring her to reach for her own. 

My camera has allowed me to beautifully document the last 3 years of my daughter’s life, connect with so so so many beautiful souls online, reconnect with my love of teaching, and quit a 9-5 job to pursue my passions instead.

I’d love to help you learn to love your photos and your life behind the lens and what better time to start your journey than during the fresh start of a new year. 

One of the best ways I’ve found to begin creative camera play in your life is by committing to a photography project and seeing where it takes you.

Perhaps you want your first project to come in the form of a class to help motivate, inspire, and push you forward in learning the ins and outs of technical photography. If that’s so then I’ve got you covered right HERE and I’ve got a special giveaway opportunity for you below too. 

Or if you’re ready to make the leap into this creative outlet on your own, here are my best tips for picking up a photo project that will surely jump start your learning this year. 

One of the most popular photo projects out there is a project 365. One photo a day for a full year. However, a 365 day commitment can be super overwhelming. Don’t feel pressured set such a lofty goal for yourself. Ask yourself first what it is you’d like to shoot more of first, and then work on the rest of the project timeline and execution from there.

Choose a technique, a subject, or a skill you’d like to learn more about. Maybe you’ve finally decided you want to master flash photography, or try your hand at food photography, or explore a new editing program or technique. Or perhaps you simply want to take better photos of your kids and your daily life. Use a personal project as an opportunity to explore! 

Pick something you’re totally and utterly in love with and passionate about photographing. When I leave projects too open-ended I get overwhelmed with options. That’s why I’m convinced I have a terrible time finishing photo-a-day projects — I never have a theme or a focus to keep coming back to. In 2012 I did a photo a day of my daughter with my iPhone. Narrowing focus allowed me to wake up knowing exactly who and what I need to capture before the day was done and watching the collection of photos of her I have grow leaves me with a huge smile on my face.

A photo a day project came with a built in schedule. But if that kind of commitment isn’t for you why not try a weekly photo project? Or monthly? Once you set a goal, pick your mode of implementation, and choose a focus to keep you on track then you must decide how long and how often you want to actually do this project. Set a specific start date, end date, and frequency and even go so far as to place them on your calendar. Set an alert or alarm on your cell phone with a reminder. And leave room to mess up or make mistakes. Schedules are just a guideline and if you forget be gentle with yourself, find a way to pick back up, remind yourself of your original goal, and keep on going.

Sharing what you’re up to on a blog is an easy way to hold yourself accountable. Don’t have a blog? You can easily set one up for free with WordPress, Blogger, or Tumblr. But don’t forget you should also share through printed products too! Create an album, print a few of your favorites on canvas, or in frame. Figure out the way you want to best display your work in print and be sure to use that to reward yourself once the project is complete!

In the comments below I’d love if it you’d share with me your own personal photography goals.  Is there one something you’ve been inspired to begin today? What challenges or struggles have you faced in keeping up with your own personal photos in the past? I want to hear all about it and brainstorm with you in the comments today!

Your comment will also automatically enter you in a giveaway for a spot in my upcoming 6 week Momtographie Online class where we’ll whip together the perfect recipe for getting you using your DSLR outside of AUTO mode for good. If you want to earn some bonus entries hop on over to my page HERE when you’re done for more ways to enter. Contest entries close on January 17th at 11:59pm EST and a winner will be announced on January 18th. 

Beryl Ayn Young is mother, teacher, photographer, and creator of the Momtographie Online class. She believes in helping moms all over the world with lessons and classes aimed at using a camera to love their photos and their life.