14 November. My FlowerFolio birthday. Also, my mum’s birthday. Five years ago, when I was in my second last year of high school, I started the FlowerFolio photoblog. I only had a smartphone, a vague idea of what blogging was, and 0 IT skills. It’s been one crazy ride, but one that ultimately brings me so much joy. Here are five things I’ve learnt in five years:
- Consistency is key. Habits are hard to kill for a reason. If you’re thinking about what you’re going to post, ideas for new shoots, musings on a scrap of paper … the creativity flows.
- It’s hard work. Yes, I get some money out of this. No, I don’t do it for income, nor do I do it for likes/follows. I just do it because it’s in my bones. If people see it and like it, even better. But it doesn’t matter, so long as I’m putting in the hard yards, and I know I’m doing myself good.
- It’s patience. Again, with the hard work. Sometimes inspiration hits easily, other times it’s like hitting a brick wall. If you’re patient enough, the right photo will come through, and you’ll be rewarded.
- Be courageous. Go outside of your comfort zone. Do things you wouldn’t normally, like selling art prints in a specific collection. And always be eager to learn. Do things differently. Don’t follow the crowd.
- And finally. What I’m doing matters. It’s art. It’s doing things in this world. It’s the truth.
Thanks to one and all who’ve supported me in various ways over the years. And to my parents who finally got me a mirrorless DSLR after I finished high school. That’s taking me places.
Love always, kisses and hugs –
