I know a lot of creative people. Most creative people I know are introverts. Contrary to what many people believe, being an introvert doesn't equate to being a hermit. Being an introvert, as this cartoon so clearly illustrates, has more to do with whether one gives out or receives energy from interaction with other people. So, when a creative introvert puts their passion on display, by publishing a book, or having a show of their work, or acting in a play, it's an act of great courage. The introvert knows that this sort of self-expression invites an inevitable come-down afterward. 

Author Susan Cain has recently brought attention to the strength of introverts, and her popular TED talk is leading to greater understanding of the value of introverts in a workplace.

Nevertheless, it can be challenging for creative people to get out and mingle. I was reminded of this after my post-show exhaustion last night. It takes a lot of energy to support creative friends. Just showing up makes a big difference. By their very nature, creative friends are often the introverts who balk at the thought of being in a crowd. That's why I am so very grateful to the people who do show up. I get it. I really do.

Just keep this in mind the next time a friend seeks your support in any artistic endeavor. We introverts - it's important we stick together.

And for you extroverts out there - we love you. Now, give us some space.

We had the most unusual weather this winter. Two solid weeks of freezing fog. Everything familiar looked completely unfamiliar in the fog, and that got me to thinking about the new year. For me, the fog was a physical metaphor for the changing attitudes of the new year. I always spend time reflecting on the past year and setting specific intentions, or goals, for the new year. For me, this year is about de-cluttering and clarity - lifting the fog, so to speak.

Meanwhile - the fog does present some interesting opportunities for seeing differently.

Foggy Day-2349-2

Here are a few more images from our foggy January. Looking forward to more clarity in February and beyond...

Sunset Fog-2107 Foggy Day-2259 Foggy Day-2208

Sometimes a word or phrase surfaces for me when it shows up in unrelated conversations again and again. This week's phrase is about being authentic - living authentically.

I think being authentic is at the heart of success. In this video, photojournalist Richard Koci Hernandez makes the point that the equipment used to create images is only a tiny portion of the photograph. I agree with him. Photography is about seeing, not about what equipment you use. And being authentic to your vision is what produces interesting work.

I recently had a big "success" in terms of material rewards for the imagery I've been shooting. And what was my immediate reaction? The work wasn't good enough. Yes, that's right - self-doubt!  That's what happens when you start to let the world judge what you do, or you start to measure your success by external acceptance.

I've had a few days to ponder that reaction of mine. When I finally caught my breath and stepped back from it, I realized that whatever happens, I am passionate about photography - in all its various manifestations. And I am grateful that I have received support that will enable me to continue to pursue my passion. I may have better tools for that now, but even if I didn't I would still be driven to create images. That's what being authentic means to me.

Here's to dreams.

dreams