We broke up.. but we’re getting back together.

I have resolved to resurrect old passions this year. A few years ago I got really excited about photography and even bought myself a fancy camera. I was mediocre at best and didn’t experience the artistic release I had hoped to feel. I always felt frustrated and over-critical of my work. During 2009, two of my very talented friends embarked on a 365 project that they displayed on their flickr sites [Ashley] [Catie]. They have done some incredible work and I am insanely jealous of them. They’re still in love with photography and I am not. They are growing and flourishing in their relationship with photography every day. Me and my camera are distant and uncomfortable. I’ll take him with me sometimes, but most of the time I’m embarrassed to be seen with him. He frustrates me and I don’t feel worthy to be with him. It’s all very complicated and emotional.

I’ve decided to try to love photography again. I need to get past my insecurities and hesitations and just start shooting again. I don’t need to put it on display or try to become a part of the Flickr scene. I need to do it for me. I’m leaving for Florida soon and I hope to embark on my a new relationship with photography during the trip. Ya know, one last chance to make it work.

I have used my camera a little bit, though. The photo below is not “cool” or “artsy” whatsoever. I’m not proud of it and it’s certainly not my best. However, I am very proud of the person in the photo and I wanted to make sure I did my part to promote her cause.

My sister is trying to bring back the babushka. I think it’s a brilliant idea. Let’s get the word out about how cool the babushka is! Here she is posing as an old world immigrant visiting Chicago. Wearing a babushka, of course.