Last weekend, I wrote a bit about my “excitements,” those things in my life that get me excited. I’ve decided to revisit several of those this week; in the evenings, I’ve been crocheting and reading, and I took a few photos this weekend. I’m attempting to be excited about more than one thing at a a time. We’ll see how this goes.

For many years in high school and college, I considered myself a photographer. I took photography classes in 4-H and in the art department, used my mom’s SLR until I could afford my own, shot several weddings and engagement pictures, and even declared a minor in art (emphasis photography) at one point. In my color photography class, I was surrounded by photography artists, and they all lived in the darkroom. I was unwilling to commit six hours a week outside of class to spend developing and color-correcting, and after the C I received in that class, I went back to a minor in religious studies. And then I got annoyed. Digital photography came into focus, and everyone and their mom who could afford to buy a Nikon D70 and Photoshop bought them and started calling themselves photographers. And you know me, once everyone was jumped on a bandwagon, I usually jump off, so I sort of gave up.

But I’m attempting to turn over a new photography leaf, and I’m determined to learn how to coerce great photos from my little point-and-shooter by assigning myself photography projects every week or so. And until I get the urge (and money) to by a digital SLR, my projects will be nearly free, which is good considering how much money I spend on crochet projects.

As an added disclaimer, you should know that I’m not a huge fan of photo editing. I like my photography best when it’s raw. And if the task can’t be accomplished in a dark room (i.e. dodging, burning, adjusting contrast or colors), you’re not likely to see me mess with it. My camera has its limitations (i.e. no macro focusing or depth of field adjustment—two things I like to play with), but I’ll do my best with what I’ve got. Tommorow, I’ll have my first photography study for you. Stay tuned!