My 366 project is coming to an end and I can’t believe I’m ‘already’ there!
Time to sum up my experiences so far.
The reason I started the 365 project was because I complicated photography. Every single picture I shot had to be scrutineered by The Critic From Hell. Me.
The pictures were either too boring or the world have seen enough of this particular whatever I tried to capture. But when I shot the picture, I obviously saw/felt something. But I often deleted the picture. Or uploaded it to the computer where it ended up in a dark corner of the harddrive.
This was stressful because I felt I never produced anything. I had so many ideas, but couldn’t get them out. I knew this scrutineering was contra-productive. Something had to be done. Why not a 365 project? But it was early February 2012. Can a 365 project start on any day but January 1st? I decided it was ok :) So I started on Feb 11th. My birthday.
My initial plan to not being so hard on myself is working. I have had really %#/”&@! BAD days, photography-wise, and still have to upload pictures. It’s been incredibly tough for me. But I survived. I just had to work harder. So easy :)
And yesterday, on my way to work, I realized what was my core problem.
Fear.
Fear of what others might think about my photography. I have so much inside that needs to get out. But I was afraid to relax and just shoot and have fun. Fear of having to explain myself. Crazy? Most likely.
I have always felt that if someone ask me “what is your pictures about?” I have to give a clear answer. Otherwise they will lose interest. I didn’t think it was ok to just say ‘Because I like it’.
After (close to) one year I feel more confident. I know it’s ok to shoot what I like. And it feels so good! I can’t tell you how good!
Now I’m planning on what to do when the project is over. The plan is of course to continue.
The strategy is not set. I love to capture people. Maybe 365 pictures of people? It doesn’t necessarily have to be portraits by definition.
We’ll see.
Anyway, I’m VERY happy for all the feedback I have received. Likes and comments. They mean a lot to me.
You are the best!
THANK YOU!
thomas granbacka 
well done, I’m in awe. as a novice just beginning my 365 I can honestly say finishing this will be a great accomplishment…and you’re there. Congrats.
Thank you Luke. Good luck with your 365 project! It’s fun and frustrating. But mostly fun :)
Great blog Thomas. And when it comes to self-critical, you are not alone! Good luck with your next project! :-)
Thank you very much Thom! :)
Great blog, Thomas. I know the feeling of the end of a year-long project, and I agree that the wanting people to like my images is a key driver. But if you can take photos for yourself, and not for those on here, then that’s a good step. As for the future, a year of people is a great idea (he said, not daring to go down that route himself!) – perhaps a different theme each month? Keep it up, though! :D
People liking my images is not my main concern. Even though it’s nice :) My problem was that I was afraid I had to explain my photographs. And I wasn’t sure I could do that. Now I feel more confident which makes me more ‘brave’.
Haha… I go through phases… Sometimes I write loads, others you get a photo and that’s it…