Do you feel the holiday hangover?

It’s a new year. You may feel like you need a resolution or maybe just a swift kick in the pants to get things started off right. I know I still feel like I have a holiday hangover, and getting back to business is not easy!

I find myself in a bit of a funk. I need a push to get me motivated again, not only about my business, but about my art as well. I’m sure you know what I’m talking about and can feel it too. It’s not easy to get back on track and it can be frustrating to see others out there killing it. But, keep in mind, that social media doesn’t always tell the whole story. My advice is to put on blinders to what others are doing and try that thing you keep thinking about but putting off… You know the one!

Another way to get your mojo back is to go out there and network, see what’s new in the photography world, and try new things. There are some awesome educational opportunities coming up for photographers, and some just for pet photographers! You have Imaging USA, the brand new Animal Image Makers Conference (yours truly is a speaker!), Texas School, a new online summit from Hair of the Dog (I might be teaching a class in there too!), and don’t forget about your local photography guilds.

For me, getting excited again about what I do is key to staying happy in both my business and life, and going to these events is mucho helpful! I remember why I got into this business in the first place. I see other amazing artists and it pushes me to be better and to try new things. I’m not saying you need to go to all of these events, but maybe just try one. I usually try to hit up Imaging USA because it’s a fun time, great networking, and the education is pretty spectacular.

I’ve never been to Texas School, but I am going this year for the first time! I am so excited to take a class on Painting in Photoshop from Sandra Pearce (who is also a speaker at AIM in April). I’m stepping outside the box (for me) and trying something I’ve never done! Very exciting!!

Whatever it is that you need to give yourself a little push… do it! I’ve pushed myself throughout my career, and I’ve taking myself and my business places I never expected. Of course, it’s easy to get complacent, which is why you need to constantly do things that get you motivated. Think outside the box and try something different! For example, I started doing photo encaustic paintings a couple of years ago. I just needed something different, and it is so much fun! I took an online course from Clare O’Neill, and then an in person mentoring session from her as well. She has an upcoming workshop too you can check out here.

There are so so many options out there for you! Take a chance and go in head first. My resolution for this year is to take more risks in both my art and my business. I’m getting ready to dive in (again), and I can’t wait to see what I create. What’s your resolution?

Kim xo

P.S. – Here are all those links again for you! If you want to share a great conference, workshop, or something that has inspired you please leave a comment!

Imaging USA – a great all around convention that is hosted by PPA. You will find everything here from pets to boudoir

Hair of the Dog Online Summit – a great option if travel is tricky for you, and it is geared specifically to pet photographers! Oh, yea, and I’m one of the teachers 😉

Animal Image Makers Conference – the first of it’s kind conference geared specifically for photographers who photograph animals!!! I might also be speaking at this one!!

Pet Photography Edu – this is my signature online course for pet photographers. It’s all about taking your pet photography skills to the next level and is focused solely on how to work with pets, light for pets, and great amazing images! Enrollment opens later this year

Texas School – I’ve only heard stories about how amazing Texas School is for both fun and learning.  Can’t wait to try it for myself!