I received a visitor to my home about 18 months ago, who was surprised that my photographs weren’t hanging on the walls. It wasn’t something which I had thought about until that moment and I found myself reflecting inwardly as to why it was that my work wasn’t hanging proudly? If I printed and framed my photos, which would I choose? Obviously I would choose to print my best photos so which did I feel were my best photos? Well, they would be my next photos! And there I had the answer as to why none of my photos were in evidence!
This inner conversation with myself led me to starting to print my work. I found that having my photos printed at a scale at which they were designed to be seen, on quality paper ‘in my daily world’ proved impactful on my subsequent progress. I subconsciously analysed the work as I went about my daily routine. Furthermore the images generated a very positive response from visitors to my home who so appreciated seeing my printed work as opposed to seeing merely a mini image on Instagram. And their positivity translated into added belief, on my part, of my work.
All of the above positive interaction with my photographs would have been lost had I continued to hold off for that next, perfect image - never to be realised as, in truth, I am hugely critical of all that I produce. I am learning now that beauty isn’t found in perfection - beauty is found in soulful work and all of my photographs certainly come from my heart!
What a tragedy it would be if we didn’t embrace our work, our progress and more importantly: our passion. And without seeing tangible images how can we evaluate our progress? In the 21st century we find ourselves living in a world of social media perfection to the point that reality, and even the soul, is all but erased.
I was fortunate, at the point of choosing to print my work, that a fellow photographer guided me in the direction of an International printing company who served me well. However, I have since moved to a smaller company, also recommended to me by a fellow artist, because for me the personal connection is important. I am able to have conversations regarding the quality of paper, the resolution and equally important -they hold my hand when I have moments of uncertainty! That personal touch for me, is ever important - and when it is combined with quality work it is a win win situation. My photographs, if you are curious, are printed by Blueprint Imaging - I have no incentive to tell you this other than I am hugely grateful for the personal service they offer me. Their website is: www.blueprintimaging.com. The prints arrive impeccably wrapped within days of the order being placed.
So the motto is: print, don’t provaricate!
