words i love: dane+being unique

Who am I? Often times we ask ourselves this very simple question. However, if you dig beneath the surface, you know it is not a simple question. It is actually layers upon layers deep. It is that same question I ask myself from time to time. Yes, it helps me stay in tune to the person I am, but it also tests me. In ways that I can not understand. Kind of deep for a Monday, right?

One particular lesson I am learning in my personal and professional life is how I need to focus on my strengths rather than fine tuning my flaws. And, this lesson I speak of, came from an author, photographer and person I admire in the photography industry. A lot. Dane Sanders is someone who at 31 decided to follow his passion and his heart at being an artist rather than a professor at a university in Santa Barbara. While married and having little ones at home. Yet, he did not turn into a well-known photographer overnight. He actually did not do much other than be his own, unique self. And, this "being his own, unique self" is what got him to where he is today.



This concept of being unique and successful at whatever it is you do in life whether that be photography, being a doctor or a teacher is well-written in his book, Fast Track Photographer. It is not only a great read for new wedding and portrait photographers, but it is great read if you are a small business owner. (The business nerd in me LOVES reading books like this!) To say the least, this book helped me understand how important it is to be you and stay true to that person. Sure, you have flaws, but use your strengths instead. The more real you are to people, the more people will respect you. And, if you do that and mix in a bit of business knowledge he gives you, then you have the same chance he did to succeed!

I think this was the fastest book I have read in the past few months. Every second I had free whether it was waiting for Bryan to put on his workout shoes or walking to the mailbox, I had my head in this book. That is how much I loved it. Shout out to Katelyn James (now Mrs. Alsop), a new and very talented friend, for recommending this book! I have more fabulous must reads heading this way, so be on the look out!

Happy Monday!!! Stay tune for this week. There are going to be some cute, cute kids and families hitting the blog! And, of course, some gorgeous fall color in the mix of things.