Finding My Balance
Where does photography fit in?
Welcome back to Adopted Lens, my monthly newsletter dedicated to the journey of self-discovery through photography. In this month’s edition, I’m going to share something that I think a lot of us may have a hard time dealing with, and that’s finding balance.
Full transparency, it’s literally 6:56pm on the last day of the month (July 31st) and this is the first time I’ve been able to actually sit down and attempt to write my monthly newsletter. That’s a bit of lie, I attempted to write this newsletter on 3 separate occasions over the course of this month, but I had writer’s block.
It wasn’t the kind of creative block you sometimes get out of nowhere. This block was specifically due to my inability to maintain my work/life balance.
One thing I know about myself is that when I’m off balance, it’s usually because I’m overthinking something. In this case, I was consumed by my full-time job and its seemingly never ending to-do list. I don’t know about you, but I have a difficult time focusing on anything else except for what’s right in front of me. It’s like I get tunnel vision and I can’t move forward until that to-do list is completely done.
I’m not here to write a bunch of excuses, but I am here to share my unique perspective on the balancing act of having a full-time job, having a family, attempting to have a social life, while following my passion for photography.
I recently had a conversation with someone who thought photography was my full-time gig. To my surprise, their impression was that my community photo walks, special events, YouTube channel, Substack newsletter, freelance photography, and street photography was my full-time job. I WISH!
Here’s the thing, I make time for what I love doing, and photography is very high on my list of things that I love to do. BUT, a lot of times art or the practice of making art is based on inspiration and in order for me to feel inspired, I need to have a clear mind.
If I’m feeling anxious or unsettled, there’s no chance for my creative process to work.
If you’ve read any of my previous posts, you already know that photography is my therapy. I am at peace when it’s just me and my camera.
BUT, after this past month, I’m starting to wonder if maybe I’ve added too much onto my plate when it comes to photography. OR, was I feeling overwhelmed simply because my 9-5 turned into a 9-9 and I had no time to myself.
Either way, I haven’t lost my balance in a very long time and this experience provided me with a new perspective on my current scenario. For now, I’m going to continue to do what I love and work hard at finding my balance, but if at any point something doesn’t feel right, I will be sure to let you know.
I’m happy to say that I finally finished my major project at work, and last week I found some time to just go out and shoot for fun. I hit the streets with a roll of Japan Camera Hunter (JCH) Streetpan 400 Black and White film. (My first time shooting with JCH)
I don’t think any of these photographs are particularly great, but it was the act of shooting that made me feel like I was finding my balance again.
I’m looking forward to getting back into the swing of things for August!
Peace,
The Life of Phys Podcast - Bryan Brock (Interview)
If you’ve got some free time, or like to listen to podcasts while you work, all you have to do is press play. Enjoy!
Most Recent YouTube Video (Photo Of The Month)
Join me behind-the-scenes as I photograph my first ad campaign for Adidas! From the concept to the final images, you'll see the entire process of how I planned and shot WNBA star Aaliyah Edwards for this iconic brand.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, August 3rd: Almanac (G44 Annual Member-Run Exhibition)
This Saturday is your last chance to see all of the incredible work curated by Heather Fulton and Shaney Herrmann.
Time: 12 - 5pm
Location: G44 - 401 Richmond St W, #120
Saturday, August 10th: Life As We Know It (Community Photo Gallery)
You’re invited to attend the opening night of “Life As We Know It”, a community photo gallery in partnership with ILFORD and Memento Film Lab.
Time: 8pm - late
Location: Memento - 216 Ossington Ave.
Complimentary drinks will be provided by Side Launch Brewing Company
Sunday, August 11th: Community Photo Walk (Riverside)
This photo walk is currently sold out.
Saturday, September, 21st: Community Photo Walk (Bloorcourt Night Market)
Save The Date! The Bloorcourt Night Market photo walk is a special photo walk at night (obviously). If you’ve never been to a night walk, this is your chance. Invite coming soon…
For more information, check out bryan-brock.com/community or join my community text chat (647) 424-2278.
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