On Writing & Photography

This is supposed to be my Monday Morning Coffee post, but considering that it’s not quite midnight on Sunday evening and I’m doing my writing now, I’m just going to call it what it is: A big fat random array of words and jumbled thoughts. That I’m going to save and post first thing in the morning. And then call it Monday Morning coffee.

Because it’s my blog.

And I can do that.

I should be asleep. But, considering that the husband is working tonight (gotta love duty days), tomorrow (today?) is a holiday, the kiddo didn’t hit the hay until 11:00 pm, and Sweet Home Alabama is calling to me from the DVR…here I sit. In my favorite gray Walmart Yoga pants, munching on a carton bowl of Cookie Dough Ice Cream. And talking to you.

Because it’s my blog.

And I can do that.

And because this is the first “break” I’ve gotten all day and I’m in need of some down time.

I’ve been doing some brainstorming on where I want to go with this blogging venture. I already announced my intent to go to #BlogHer12 and my desire to acquire a few sponsors to help get me there. But, the more I think about it (and the more I send up the “call for sponsors” every month with little to no luck at actually generating any kind of revenue) the more I realize that I don’t know if I will ever be a “brand” blogger.

I have little to no interest in reviewing products. Now, if Apple wanted to send me a MacBook or Canon decide to shoot a 5D Mark ii my way I’d be more than happy to oblige.

But the little things? Those things that small companies send to anyone who will accept them?

I think I’ll continue to pass on those.

My intention, and my passion, has always been to write. Just to write. To put my words, thoughts, fears and emotions out there for people to read and connect with.

Blogging opened that door for me. What started out as an attempt to salvage my sanity when little man was born, turned into place of creative freedom for me. And now, as much—if not more—than ever, I want to pursue that.

Which I have no idea how I will do. You know, with running a business and all.

But, I’m going to start by cutting back on some of the things I participate in here.

As much as I love photography, right now is not the time for me to pursue it. I love, love, love snapping photos of Little Man, capturing still life shots and learning how to manipulate my camera. And I still have intentions of joining in with a few challenges here and there and including photos and whatnot in my regular posts.

But, despite the extra traffic my site gains through linking up with a dozen+ photography challenges every week, it takes away from the traffic that comes to read my actual words. And that’s what I want to be known for.

Likewise, I’m thinking of cutting down on how many times I post per week. I’m going to play that by ear, but it’s possible. I won’t post less than three times a week for sure, but I want to focus on quality content and ensuring that each post receives maximum exposure. Spotlight Saturday’s will continue every week no matter how many other times I’ve written throughout the week. But, as for all of the other stuff…I can’t be 100% certain yet how that’s going to come about.

Writing has always been in my heart. Always been my passion and my desire. I dream of seeing my work published and sitting on the shelves of the Barnes & Noble. I’ve fantasized about having a work of print go to the big screen…seeing my characters brought to life.

I’m not sure if blogging will ever get me there; I doubt very often whether or not I even have what it takes to do it. But, I also never thought I’d be running a Graphic Design Business…and I’m doing it.

Don’t forget to check out the Still Life Standout’s Winners for the month of August!