Over the course of the semester, I overcame many milestones and obstacles that have held me back prior to this class. Each of the six images above represented a moment in time where I did something different or overcame something I was afraid of. I changed my viewpoint to shoot from below and above, I shot an image of a person I didn't know, I shot an image in front of people, I shot an image against the sun, I shot an image with lighting I controlled, and I shot in black and white. 

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There were many challenges, and the mental ones were harder. The pressure of feeling like I did not have what it takes to be a photographer because I didn't know what settings to use right away really ate at my confidence over the years. I felt like if I did not know immediately what to set my exposure to when I see something it automatically meant that I was not and cannot call myself a photographer. I held onto my camera for seven years and was too scared to go out to take pictures. But over the course of the semester, each assignment gave me purpose. Through that, I forced myself to go outside, take a walk, go to different parts of the city, etc. and just experiment. I had a reason and purpose to be out there so I wasn't as nervous to be seen shooting outdoors. Going forward, I'd really love to practice more portrait work. I absolutely love looking at portrait work, editing portraits, but shooting portraits? It is just terrifying. Knowing that my subject can move, can get impatient, and can even get upset with me as I figure out the settings, lighting, position, etc. is just so difficult for me to overcome. I came into this class only hoping to gain the confidence I needed to get started again and as the semester comes to an end, I just can't believe how proud I am today. I have a whole website that is my own which showcases my work. I have a portfolio I am proud of and finally... I have a camera that I USE!! What more can I ask for? 

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For the new student who might be reading my reflection during their first week of class, I encourage you to go through with the class and know that by the end of the semester, you will truly be proud of the images you've taken and the journey that got you there. I wish you the best of luck, I know you'll do great! 

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