I was burned by a really unreasonable client. Unfortunately, it was one of my first paying ones. The experience was so bad I decided that if I didn't have to pick up a camera, I wouldn't. That individual took all of the joy out of it for me... (it's part of the reason I haven't been around for a couple of months.) I was so frustrated - being told by real professionals that what I'd done was not only good work, but beyond what they would have offered this person ---especially at the minimal price I'd done it for.
THEN... the yearbook deadline looms ahead (next Tuesday
), and as it always goes, my students are nowhere near finished with it. So, I pick the camera up again, hesitant, but determined. I actually have a senior that cannot afford to get shots made, so I told him to come dressed to impress and I'd shoot him. Today's shoot with him was the first time I'd taken a photo in months...
....and it felt great. I feel like... me again. I'm going to choose a few pics that I took of this senior and give them to him --- for free.
I will never do a shoot that I charge for again. It just killed my soul - no matter what the pros say - it's not worth it to me.
I guess I just wanted to let you know --- I know how it feels to be uninspired. I drug my feet, but when I was forced to pick the lens up again, it was a good experience. I think you'll know when you've had enough time off. If not, we'll come knocking!
