being at home

Being among this community of shutter sisters, here on the site and those viewing & sharing, makes me feel like I'm home. Photography and being surrounded by such creative spirits has changed my life forever. To be around energies that inspire daily and push me to create, I'm so grateful. I get to pick up my camera daily and take pictures of my life and those of others. I capture new life, still life, the details, true love, the brilliant moments and the sad. Yes, I am grateful.

When I first discovered shutter sisters I was "a lurker", just viewing & soaking it all in. I looked at old posts, tried out techniques & followed photo prompts. I longed to be brave online and post a photo in the comments or to one of the projects, worried if I was good enough. Then one day a flickr friend, suggested I should enter a certain photo to the one word project. I did and I was thrilled when it was chosen on the one word page. I’m sure many of you have felt the same.

I kept being vulnerable, putting my photos out there....

I took the leap, so today I'm encouraging everyone and anyone reading this, regular commenters and those lurkers out there, yes you! Please say hi and show me what you've been photographing, perhaps it’s your life, or new life, a still life, the details, true love, the brilliant moments and the sad. Especially if you've never done so before. Be brave, we will look after you... welcome home.

Comments

[Marcie]

What a brilliant post!
I'm a regular visitor/contributor...but will offer up two recent photos:
http://www.marciescudderphotography.com/home/2011/2/22/three-plus-three.html
http://www.marciescudderphotography.com/home/2011/2/23/a-team.html

[Grethel Van Epps]

Love this post..
I've been a pretty regular lurker for a while now.. love to come here and get inspired..
Here is a bit of what I've been photographing..

http://www.gvephotography.com/blog/randoms-on-friday-7/

And I'm in my second year of the 365 project and I'm totally obsessed with it.. ;)
here is 2011 so far:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=259484&id=59891552308

Thank you for creating this forum and for sharing with all!

[Lu]

I have been shooting a lot with my camera phone. It is crazy how much I have been doing it, but it has also given me a totally different way of seeing.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldb/5472337699/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldb/5467682061/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldb/5459626865/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldb/5455053068/

[Puna]

I a true fan and admirer and quit lurking a couple of years ago. When I need inspiration, I come here.

I am attempting a 365 project. For the most part, I am successful. On those days I fall off the wagon, I don't worry about it too much, I just get back on again.

http://lifesignatures.org/wordpress/2011/02/february-24-the-store/

I also have a partnership with a blogger that I met yes - online. We collaborate each week or as much as possible.

http://lifesignatures.org/wordpress/2011/02/february-18-team-up-thursday-on-friday/

And finally, I have a collaborative writing group.

http://visionandverb.com/2011/02/the-true-calling/

It's fun this wild wild west of the internet.

[Jennifée]

Love this post so much - I do feel at home both here and in Tracey's Picture Inspiration. I'm so happy about the photographic discoveries and experiments and growth I have gone through since I discovered this place.

Just today, I did one of those ring-with-heartshaped-shadow shots for the first time - I can't decide if it's a classic or a cliché, but I loved putting my own stamp on that type of image no matter what.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/85057042@N00/5473596399/

[bek]

I've been lurking, having come through Kim Klassen. I truly enjoy the inspiration here. And thank you for the encouragement. =)

I am discovering a passion for editing, and textures in particular...

http://myheartandhomebek.wordpress.com/2011/02/23/before-after-22411/

[Jessica]

I love coming here for inspiration and tips. I have contributed in these comments, but I know I have a lot to learn. Thanks for letting me lurk. ;) I just joined Picture Inspiration and started a 365 Project this year. I'm so excited.

This is my fave photo so far in 2011. I think it could be better, but I was pretty happy with it:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/goaliej54/5449581347/in/set-72157625742922642/

[mindy b.]

I'm unfortunately a lurker, and have been for some time. I look to Shutter Sisters for inspiration, tips and that extra 'push' to pick my camera up each day and document what is. I don't dedicate as much time to photography as I'd like, but am happy to be following my husband and daughter around these days, capturing our day-to-day lives.

I do love Shutter Sisters!!!

http://okaypeanut.com/2010/11/18/submitting/
http://okaypeanut.com/2011/01/08/365-project-8-choo-choo/
http://okaypeanut.com/2011/01/23/365-project-23-winter-grass/

[Tammy Lee Bradley]

Hi Sweetest Xanthe... I have been enjoying capturing the light lately... http://bloggingbradleys.blogspot.com/2011/02/dock-of-bay.html

[Michelle P]

I've been somewhat of a lurker and an occasional commenter. Getting closer to my niche, but I still want to tackle my photo challenges, too. This is an inviting place to view techniques, process and receive inspiration. I am very grateful for this community. Thank you!

Here are a couple of my recent shots:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50099518@N05/5472700299/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50099518@N05/5470300338/

And one not so recent, but one of my favorites:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50099518@N05/4845061281/

Michelle

[christine]

I'm a regular visitor!!

Here's some recent pictures of mine:

http://just-travelin-through.blogspot.com/2011/02/finding-beauty-in-running.html

[Kath]

I've been lurkng for a while but last week decided to jump back into the fold after signing up for Tracy's 52 week picture inspiration ....

I've been busy with my new 50mm f1.8 and taking photos of things that are making me feel inspired and happy.

http://www.soeursdujour.com/2011/02/thursday-things.html

[Kathleen O.]

Photographing life with a boy...http://www.flickr.com/photos/ko2008/5466294980/
Thankful for this space to share and get inspiration...

[Jade]

Xanthe, first of all, you are amazing. Your images and point of view inspire me daily.Your story definitely reminds me of my own!! It was like a secret club that I wanted to be a part of... But then I realized how kind and open-armed this place is and that I didn't need to be anyone but myself. I started posting to the Flick groups and on the day when I saw my image as the daily click, I felt so honored and so proud because I had never considered myself much of a photographer:

http://shuttersisters.com/the-daily-click/2009/5/24/jade-m-sheldon.html

That was a few years ago and now I am more than comfortable defining myself as a photographer and I believe one of the key reasons is because of this community that believed in me and continues to believe in me to this very day. All the wonderfully creative and talented women here gave me the courage to share my art.

The day that I was asked by Tracey if I would become an honorary sister and write a blog post my heart skipped a beat. I hope I get asked again to write one someday:

http://shuttersisters.com/home/2010/7/21/tiny-treasures.html

Lately I have been photographing places around me that I pass by every day but never really stopped in front of:

http://jademsheldonphotography.blogspot.com/2011/02/green-wall-my-birthday-part-i.html

What I am most excited about though is that I have been hired to photograph my first wedding! It will be on April 1st, aka April Fool's Day!! I absolutely can't wait!!!

[Deanna]

I have been so inspired by this site and a number of the contributors. I would have had no idea how to edit this shot if it hadn't been for Kim Klassen's skinny-mini e course on Photoshop. Thank you for providing such a safe, inviting place for us to inhabit.

http://anewdayadifferentway.blogspot.com/2011/02/do-not-go-softly-into-dark-night.html

[Tamar]

Thank you so much for this post! I love Shutter Sisters and enjoy every blog post. Above all, I am not afraid of being vulnerable and putting my pictures out there! I am loving connecting with my camera and the world through the lens.
♥
Here are a couple of pics
http://www.tamarhaytayan.com/a-flower-for-you-♥/
http://www.tamarhaytayan.com/dolphin-bird/

[Sarah Jane]

I'm a full time lurker, and a once in a great while poster. (I think I've done it 3 times now?)

Lately most of my photos have been taken in my kitchen, just because of how cold it's been outside. (and the kitchen is my favorite spot)

Here's my most recent-

http://www.flickr.com/photos/definitepossibilities/5473803671/

[Kat]

Thank you so much for this post Xanthe. I used to be a lurker, and sometime in the last year turned into a participant. I think some of us who are naturally the shy, quiet ones have the most trouble online - where if you don't participate people don't even know you are there. I am happy to say that I've overcome my shyness and love the conversations that happen from the comments on this blog and so many others.

I loved reading through the comments that have already been posted today and I encourage anyone who is still nervous about joining in to just do it. Your voice and your vision are unique and needed in the world.

My recent fascination: Capturing the sky!
http://www.kateyeview.com/2011/02/exploring-with-camera-capture-sky.html

[Jenni]

I'm new to this blog, new to blogging in general, and definitely new to photography. My equipment is laughable - I hve a very inexpensive point and shoot and I just try to find ways to make it work - and my experience is nil. But right now I'm photographing every little thing ... and seeing photos everywhere I go. I guess that's a good sign, yes? It helps to have two beautiful girls and more babies joining my family all the time. They make such lovely and willing subjects.

Most recently:
http://thesparklejar.squarespace.com/blog/2011/2/23/secret-magic-love.html
http://thesparklejar.squarespace.com/blog/2011/2/22/jumpy-twirls.html
http://thesparklejar.squarespace.com/blog/2011/2/17/keepin-it-real.html

I might look back on all of these shots one day and laugh at myself for liking them enough to post them for all the world to see. But maybe not. Who knows.

[Melissa]

I've been struggling with my 365....I take daily pics but get behind on blogging!
http://melissamillerphotos.com/2011/02/project-365/

[Suzi]

I always find your posts as inspiring as your photographs. Thank you for including my photo.

I have connected with so many encouraging and inspiring people through my recent interest in photography. My life feels bigger and fuller and it's been wonderful to share that passion for photography with this creative community.

[Tina]

love this post, and thanks for the encouragement. i think we all need it once in awhile. :)

this is what i've been photographing lately. my best friend. :)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mageejenks/5469616706/

[Jess]

Lately I've been pushing myself to shoot in lighting situations that I would normally run from.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/theoldnicholsfarm/5434003367/

I participate by commenting here once in awhile, and sometimes adding to the flickr pools. Having one of my pics chosen for the one word project was so humbling and encouraging. I do love it here, so very much!

http://shuttersisters.com/onewordproject/2010/10/9/imperfection-by-old-nichols-farm.html

[Emily S.]

I am new to this site and love the vibes I am getting! I have visited a few times and think that it is very inviting. I have also been enjoying reading old blog posts for inspiration and tips. I have had my current blog since last April, and the whole blog is dedicated to my Project 365. I am up to Day 324!!

Here are a few photos of Volcano Lilies I took last weekend that I hope you will enjoy:
http://irishems.blogspot.com/2011/02/day-318-february-18-2011.html

I'm still new to photography, but I love learning and trying new things. I am also excited for warmer weather so I can get out and photograph Nature - my favorite subject. :)

Thanks for the wonderful site! xo

[Tamar]

I shared a comment earlier on today. I also would like to share my blog post of today inspired by Xanthe's post.
Thank you
Tamar

http://www.colourofpomegranates.com/shutter-sisters-love/

[keli]

for you, xanthe ... anything. XO

http://www.flickr.com/photos/twelve-paws/5474606246/

i would not have taken that picture 3 years ago. it would have never crossed my mind to step away from the birthday party long enough to take a photo of a bucket of brushes. but having been on flickr and having followed shutter sisters for so long, i stepped out of that comfort zone and ended up with a great shot. yes, i said it. great.

that's another thing this community of friends has taught me ... to be happy and comfortable with and proud of my own work.

[Sarah B.]

Lately, I've been slacking in photography... but my main focus has been changes happening to me.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sdeslaur/5423058012/

[Claires 365]

I'm a lurker too! I think I have commented once or twice in the past. My photos are rarely good enough! Here's my photos of tonights sunset.

http://claires365.wordpress.com/2011/02/24/day-170/

[Dotti]

I truly love Shutter Sisters! I found you just about a year ago, lurked for a while, then began commenting occasionally. Reading Shutter Sisters led me to Tracey's "Picture" classes and the journey began in earnest. When I first discovered SS, I was a pretty straight up crisp, sharp, color photographer. Gradually, I've branched out and embraced the idea of using post processing creatively to take my photos to a higher level. Here's a photo I did yesterday for my 365. I think you'll see what I mean. [Texture is blissandfolly.]

http://www.camperky.com/2011/02/thanks-mom.html

[Diane]

I love your post Xanthe. I come here almost daily and always check out the daily click plus the selection from 365. Every once in a while I will post a photo of mine but since no one ever comes (well, once) and because others photos are always selected for the two areas I check out, I don't feel worthy of sharing my links a lot of the time. So I just sit tight at my blog or Flickr where people always do make some comment. So here, though I enjoy the inspiration, I am very reluctant to share a link in the comments ... like today.

[Kiersten]

I was a brand new lurker when my owl photo was chosen for the One Word Project back in september. It was such a huge confidence boost for me, especially during such a painful period of my life. You girls inspire me every day with your brilliance, along with everyone who posts amazing glimpses into their lives. This is a beautiful, inspiring community...so thank you for blessing us all with the gift that is Shutter Sisters.

Here are some snapshots of my life the last few months... xoxox

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkangel71/4927275063/in/set-72157624807783520/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkangel71/5170703026/in/set-72157624807783520/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkangel71/5152509120/in/set-72157625042018751/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkangel71/5170690362/in/set-72157625042018751/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkangel71/5350670175/in/set-72157625631794469/

[Romy]

I too keep lurking, leaving comments here and there...

http://by-romy.blogspot.com/2011/02/morning-walk.html

[Denise]

Here's what I've been up to:

http://cupoficedesign.blogspot.com/

My 365 Project blog. It's my first blog AND first big project so it's not the best...But I do enjoy the need to use my camera every. single. day. Living in a tiny apartment in a small town while finishing up college doesn't really give me much inspiration, but I do have some good days. =)

[melody clark]

I am a secret stalker. Have been for awhile now. Although I do occasionally post a photo to your flickr group! :)

I am doing a photo a day project on this blog... http://photographicmelodys.blogspot.com/
And you can also find me at... http://montanasisters.blogspot.com/

Love this site! Thanks for all your inspirations... photo wise and in your words. xo

[Jess]

Today, I photographed dinner.

http://jessicavescera.blogspot.com/2011/02/dinner.html

[Chelsea C]

I can totally relate. Finding this site, the community of photographers and shared passion has changed my life. Changed my outlook, how I spend my time, how I view the world. I have just been shooting a lot of nature shots lately...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/chelscham/5474515833/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chelscham/5474513925/

[Lauri]

OK, today I will take a chance. I am officially not a "lurker."

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9121229@N03/5410238811/

[Meghan @ Life Refocused]

I LOVE coming to visit Shutter Sisters, but I often don't share a photo. I think I've only done that once. I recently took a GIANT leap and entered a photo contest for the first time. Here is a vulnerable and authentic self-portrait I entered. http://www.flickr.com/photos/27395967@N03/5446789198/

[Patti]

Our week started out with heavy wet snow on Sunday afternoon & soon turned to rain, turning to sleet then to freezing rain and then again overnight. We awoke to an icy tundra = beauty all around. I took a walk around my village and this is one of the shots I captured

http://www.flickr.com/photos/22639132@N04/5468162471/in/photostream/

[anngeedee]

I've been capturing spring as it unfolds around me: http://www.flickr.com/photos/anngeedee/5463382175/

[Heidi]

I'm a full blown lurker coming out of hiding. I did my first engagement photo shoot for a friend this year and this one is my favorites:

http://gallery.me.com/lettau#100675/Tru7982LF&bgcolor=black

I love learning and reading and hope to go take some classes when the little ones are in school.

Heidi

[Shannon Jones]

I too have been a lurker for quite a while, with comments here and there. Didn't even know about the flickr group so I'm off to check that.
I can't get photography off of my brain, trying to find anything and everything I can learn from. Would love to have a business but keep talking myself out of it with self-doubt.
You can check me out at : http://josiesspot.blogspot.com

[Brenda]

Thanks Xanthe for encouragement… =)
"true love"
http://www.flickr.com/photos/greeneyephotos/5471613725/

[Trude]

Yes, yes, yes! Love feeling a part of a community. The internet has been amazing in bringing photographers together and encouraging the sharing of information. Lately I've been obsessed with Instagram, a free iPhone photography app. It's kinda like a mini Lightroom and I love it! This shot of our local bright-mustard-yellow feed store is a recent fave:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/trudem/5467013708/

:)

[Kate D]

Great post. :) I remember when I first discovered Shuttersisters too...i think I emailed a friend declaring, "I have finally found my community!" I have to be honest, I haven't been that active yet - with respect to posts & sharing pictures - but I know I will...in due time. It's true, it takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there, but a big realization for me has also been the fact that we are all the same..we all start somewhere...and there is a place for us all. thank you for this place

[carolann]

I love this community; have been a lurker for quite awhile now. I find such inspiration and well-thought prose here. Thank you so much for letting shy folks like me just quietly absorb and learn.

http://earthgirlphotos.com

[NatsterNat]

Well I've taken the plunge thanks to your post...I have officially opened a Flickr account and uploaded my first photos today. Thanks for the encouragement! I too have been a "lurker" here for the past few months, and am finally posting for the first time. Nothing like jumping in head first! I look forward to coming out of my shell and posting regularly here and also to my brand new Flickr account. I am ready to tackle my fear of failure and am looking forward to any comments and/or suggestions my fellow "Sisters" can offer me. I would love one day to photograph professionally, but my self doubt always holds me back. By accepting vulnerability online, I am hoping to gain the courage to pursue my dream of professional photography. By reading all these comments, I see that I am not alone in my feelings...it does make me feel like I'm "at home". Here is my latest favourite capture of my youngest...hope I post the link correctly...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/58861148@N02/5476981507/

[Carol]

Wonderful post! thank you for featuring my photograph :)

[Helen]

I'm a lurker, I come here frequently to get inspiration and to soak up the beauty of the images. I started a 365 project last summer but it was sidelined in the winter. Last weekend I got myself out again with my camera and it felt so good, I feel more like myself when I have my camera by my side.

These were my results: http://www.flickr.com/photos/helenailsa

[theresa]

i'm a frequent lurker, but i really relate to this post! i keep telling myself i don't have time to upload and organize my photos, but i feel like i need to make time. i'm a SAHM of 3 boys. this is one of my twins who is fiercely into doing his own thing.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/31272796@N00/5479272337/