In 2009, I was really focused on growing my business which included improving my technical photography skills. In the process of doing so, I found myself at times a bit reluctant (or perhaps, lazy?) when it came to taking or editing personal photos. Suddenly, I felt a tremendous pressure to produce technically great images … all of the time. Even my everyday snapshots of the kids playing with the dog needed to produce that “wow” factor in order to be emailed or posted or even looked at — by myself — for more than half a second. Looking back, I realize that this unrealistic standard I placed on my images had an unintended negative consequence. I’m sure I missed documenting a bunch of personal moments that while not technically perfect may have captured real memories and evoked warm feelings upon reflection.

Well, in an effort to avoid falling into this trap for 2010, I’ve vowed to take {at least} one photo a day. I’ve seen other photographers take on similar projects but had never felt entirely compelled to participate in something like this myself. Until recently. Now, I have this feeling of inspiration bubbling inside of me. An I-can’t-wait-to-bust-out-my-camera-and-see-what-I’ll-choose-as-tomorrow’s-shot feeling. Keep in mind that these photos aren’t meant to be technically perfect. In fact, I’ve already given myself an out by declaring that these images will NOT be technically perfect. Instead, my intention is to capture one photo that depicts my “everyday” life. A silly moment. A messy house. A beautiful sight. Whatever inspires me for that particular day. The rules of my little photo project may change throughout the year but as long as I feel inspired and free to capture life as-is, I will be happy. I can’t wait to look back at this little album of 365 photos from 2010 and see what sort of warm memories and emotions these images evoke.

You can follow along with my 2010: a photo a day project HERE on my facebook page. Anyone else care to join me on this journey? Leave me a comment or send me a note if you decide to embark upon this project for yourself as well. You may just end up with a dose of inspiration yourself!