What Matters Most

I recently had the pleasure of viewing a video by a very well known photographer, reflecting on his life and career. In his video, he poses a question to both the viewer and himself- why do you do what you? I mean, photography isn't exactly curing cancer, right? Some photographers are arrogant about their work but most that I have come in contact with are exactly the opposite. They question and doubt their abilities weekly, if not daily. They are constantly trying to reinvent themselves, keep up with the current trends while staying true to their art, learning new techniques- the list goes on and on. Some quit. Some close up shop. Some put their cameras down for good because they feel like the pressure to succeed is too great. Most are never satisfied with where they are at and rarely see their work for what it truly is. So why do we do what we do?

For me, this was a difficult question. Starting a business was the last thing on my mind at this time last year. In fact, at about this time, I was sitting on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in Israel, asking God what he had planned for my life. I was just about to complete a 2 week journey through Israel, Jordan, and Egypt and still wasn't really sure why God had called me there- to the roots of my faith. All I knew was that something was beginning............

A few whirlwind months later and Sarah Dennis Photography was born- a dream of mine for many years. And then our actual studio opened November 1st, 2010. Wow. Has it really only been 6 months? God has poured out his blessings on our business over and over again this year.

I had an opportunity to take my son out for a really fun photo shoot this afternoon- totally unplanned and sponteneous. I was able to get back to my roots and what I really love doing as an artist- capturing life. Outdoor/natural light photography is what I love. Being able to capture real expressions and emotions is what inspires me. It drives me to learn more and to be better. These connections are what matter most to me. It's my little contribution to this great big world-a way to hold on to memories that are so quickly fleeting. A newborn baby, so full of sweetness and joy. A family's love as they prepare for yet another military deployment. A confident teen ready to conquer the world on graduation day. A tearful groom beholding his bride for the first time. A six year old little boy that will too soon be a man (but for now thinks his mom is the most beautiful girl in the world).

I don't know about you but I am not ready for those memories to fade. I want to clutch them to chest, much like my quiet moments on the shore of the Sea. But time marches on for all of us. Thank you Lord, for giving me such a wonderful gift and the ability to share it with others. Help me to always remember what truly matters the most- You.