A moment of reflection

I had just settled into my seat after takeoff. It was the first time I’d taken a deep breath all day for some reason. I had the whole row of the aircraft to myself, and my next stop was home. I felt really happy.
And then, for some reason, it all started to hit me. I am so blessed to be able to do what I do. I mean, sure – I had spent most of the day bouncing around airports trying to get myself from Oklahoma City back to San Diego – that’s no fun! I was exhausted from too many mornings of being up early. I suddenly remembered that I was on a place at the exact same time last week . . . at least I had a nice glass of wine in my hand. You know how that goes – the combination of exhaustion and a glass of wine can bring on the heartiest of emotions.
But still, I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed in the moment. I’m a professional photographer. Never in a million years did I ever think I would be able to say that. Photography is one of those things you grow up doing for fun, like baseball and playing guitar. But no one gets to do that for a living, right? How many kids really grow up to baseball players? And while I don’t make anywhere near the amount of money as an athlete or rock star, I’m still living my dream. And I get to shoot weddings! Most people (especially guys) probably roll their eyes at that. But I’ve come to love it ? I mean, how many people get to work with people, day in and day out, on the happiest day of their lives? It’s challenging, has plenty of adrenaline and pressure, is both creative and technical, and very rewarding.
That brings up another amazing byproduct of the job – fulfillment. To be a part of someone’s wedding, to be able to document that day for them – what an honor. And, then the best part of the job – being in the room when a couple sees their pictures for the first time. Its really hard not to get goosebumps every time, even though I do it 30 times a year. While I might play it off at the time, its moments like these that make me realize how much I treasure them.
And the team I get to work with at the studio. I work alongside my best friend Bronson every day, shooting weddings on weekends and sharing a desk during the week. Jacob has such a fun personality, and is constantly challenging me. Karey, in only a few months, has made herself an integral part of the team. Her laugh is contagious and, frankly, she’s a genius. And then there’s Eder, quiet and unassuming, but driven and motivated beyond belief. I could work from home most days if I wanted, but yet I always find myself excited to head down to the studio every day.
I think sometimes we need these moments, to remind ourselves why we do what we do. Its tough right now – you can’t take more than five steps without hearing something depressing about the economy. I’m not rich, and I have my concerns too, but I don’t want to spend my life worrying. I’m thankful for what I have, and I feel very blessed to be where I’m at . . . right now.
Almost to home sweet home ? My bed has never sounded so good!