Find Your Niche

Earlier this year, I started a series of life lessons based on analogies from the world of photography. This article is a continuation of this series. If you missed this series, I have included links to the previous articles at the end of this one. I hope you enjoy looking at life from the perspective of a photographer!

It seems there are almost as many photographers as there are people - nearly everyone has a camera, at least in their cell phone! So with so many photographers out there, how does one stand out in the field of photography? You must find something that makes you unique - your own niche. This is something that you are passionate about, that you are willing to devote the time to specialize in. It may be the subjects you photograph or the stories your pictures tell - of endangered species, of people suffering, war, a world out of control, etc.

I, personally, have found flower macro photography to be a passion. I have spent several years travelling to gardens around the country as well as in my area, to learn about flowers and what angles and lighting make different types of flowers look the best. I have just purchased a top-quality macro lens for Christmas ($900!) to be able to take the best close-up pictures. So stay tuned for even better flower pictures from me in the coming months!

By finding your passion, your niche, you allow your unique gifts to express. This is the challenge for all of us in our lives - find our unique gifts and share them with the world. Not only will you reap the rewards of a fulfilling life, but the world will be a better place because you have dared to "step onto the stage" and "let your light shine".

In any field of endeavor, you will find many talented individuals but only a few who really are masters. These are the ones who are not only talented but have dedicated their lives to using and improving their natural talents. When you "invest" in yourself by developing your talents, you build a wealth which cannot be taken from you. When you express your passion, you let your light shine for the entire world to see and your life will be a happy one!

A master not only knows the "rules of thumb" and techniques for his craft, he knows when to go beyond them - those unique circumstances where something better can be achieved by transcending the norm. Thus, the master is able to advance the state of the art by trying new ideas, standing on the shoulders of those who came before him.

In a similar manner, I challenge you to be a master in your life. Learn the rules, dedicate yourself to constant practice, and when you are ready -- step out into your originality and advance the art of being human! You are a unique expression of the divine spirit and the world is waiting to see your light shine.

To read earlier articles in this series, click on the following links:

www.associatedcontent.com/article/2970368/focus_where_is_your_attention_pg3.html

www.associatedcontent.com/article/2973890/defining_boundaries.html

www.associatedcontent.com/article/2978772/depth_of_field_narrow_or_wide.html

www.associatedcontent.com/article/2983444/try_a_new_perspective.html

To read articles on photography by this author, click on the following links:

www.associatedcontent.com/article/2622423/how_to_take_better_pictures_with_your.html

www.associatedcontent.com/article/5424280/smugmug_sell_your_photos_online.html

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5733096/tips_for_taking_better_flower_pictures.html?cat=32

www.associatedcontent.com/article/5733582/tips_for_taking_better_flower_pictures.html