Well, it’s almost been a year since I received my dSLR and really saw my photographic and creative skills develop. I thought I would take this moment to reflect on what I have enjoyed and what I’ve learnt about my new hobby this past year.

Having my camera has meant getting out of the house by myself a lot more and exploring new places. I have never been one to enjoy my own company and to do things independently but my camera has encouraged me to be independent and has kept me company on my explorations. I have loved exploring places, new and old, and discovering some favourite places to photograph: Penarth Pier, Barry Harbour, even my own back garden. I have discovered a love for landscape photography, as well as some macro shots. I absolutely love being creative and finding different ways of taking shots – different angles, different perspectives. Beach landscapes are my absolute favourite – not only are they beautiful but my soul feels restored and refreshed with the sea air and sound of the lapping waves.

As I am reflecting, I look back through twelve months of photographs and with much difficulty, pick my favourites.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

As I look forward to 2017, I think about ways I can grow and develop my photography further. As I have said, I enjoy landscapes and macro and will continue to photograph such things. However, I’d like to stretch myself, try something new and see where my photography style takes me. So, how am I going to do this? Well, I am going to take part in the FMS photo a day challenge (on Instagram) which involves taking a photo a day based on a given theme that day. This will stretch my creative mind as well as giving me the opportunity to try some different styles of photography.

I have also set myself a challenge of visiting one new place a month to photograph. Some destinations on my list are:Caswell Bay, Swansea; Brecon Waterfalls; Llyn y Fan; Bath; Barafundle Bay; Green Bridge of Wales

(Any other suggestions are welcome).

I am so thankful that my 2016 goal of regaining my creativity has been successful and I hope it long continues into 2017 and the years to come.