Today we went into some detail about studio photography, and tomorrow morning we go to our studio lab to practice. We are split into groups of 3 or 4 and we all rotate between being the photographer, the assistant, and the model. HA! That's right, I said model. It's a good thing I brought all my prom dresses. Just kidding.
I'm excited to see what it's like. Sometimes I think I would like doing studio stuff, because of the control factor. You can completely manipulate the light to suit your needs. But it's much more intimidating. I've heard from lots of people who've already been to studio that it's lots of fun, so I'm looking forward to tomorrow.
This past weekend some friends from school took me out for my anniversary. My friend Allie also had everyone from our group sign an anniversary card for me. So I have an anniversary card from about 30 people. It cracked me up. I really like the people I spend 14 hour days with. Which, I know, is quite fortunate.
Anyway, we decided to go to Bannick this past weekend, which used to be the capital of Montana, but is now just this really awesome ghost town. I really wished that I had a tripod while we were there, but I made do with what I had. I would love to go back.
This week was a bit tough. I definitely hit a wall, and it probably won't be the last time of the summer. It's been a bit overwhelming, and I am feeling the effects of the intensity of it all. I woke up one morning and thought, "I didn't really quit both of my jobs, move out of my apartment, leave my dogs in California and my husband in Oregon to spend preciously scarce funds thinking that I can become a professional photographer... did I?" Uh. Yes, I did.
Yesterday I attended a lecture from one of my instructors who also is a professional ski and snowboarding photographer, and he started his talk by telling us that about 10% of what he shoots in a year is actually something that he would consider "good". He also said that Ansel Adams was pleased with his year and considered it a success if he made 12 prints a year. Ironically enough, this was HUGELY comforting to me. I'm not the only one who deletes 90% of what I take when I go shooting. In no way would I compare myself to Ansel Adams, but I figure, if I follow the pattern and don't give up, I will hopefully find my own small measure of success. I don't want to be famous. Just satisfied. I'll keep working on it.
Anyway.
It's my birthday on Sunday. I'll be 26. How is that possible? I've already received several boxes and cards from loved ones. Thank you all. I feel loved. I've decided for my birthday I will celebrate by going to the Annual Missoula Dog Show. I keep thinking about Christopher Guest and Best in Show. It seems like it would be packed with possibilities for entertainment and some fun photography. I guess I'll find out.
