Not including weddings, sessions and the occasional iPhone image, I have shot over 3000 images this year. And I only you showed roughly 365. And of that 365, most were of my favorite little hashtag, #lucasp.
I've got to be honest, it's been a week since my 365 project ended, and I'm just now starting to get used to life without a camera constantly by my side.
Now that it's over, I'm feeling so many emotions.
In some ways I'm sad. I feel like a major part of my family's life flew by in an instant, and I'm not ready to give it up yet. The good news is, I have documentation of it all... and for better or worse, my son has his own personal hashtag.
I learned a lot from this year - not only about my photography, but about myself as well. I know more about who I am, and who I want to be.
I cherish not only the big milestones, but the every day moments too. For example - One day, Lucas began using his own silverware. In an instant, he no longer needed my help - it was bittersweet.
No matter how hard we try, we can't stop it, or slow it down. There's no getting those little moments back.
Because of this project, I realize with an even deeper appreciation that these moments are fleeting. Now, I read just one more book at night, so I can cuddle him just a little bit longer. And even though he's getting heavier by the second, when he wants me to pick him up - I do. Because one day he'll stop needing that, too.
For that, I'm so glad I have these photos - to remind me now, and in 15 years of those times when laundry baskets and cardboard boxes were toys, and when his shoes were smaller than mine.
I think that my biggest take away from the project is the ability to really see, and know when even the smallest moment is happening.
I still see my photo of the day - everywhere, in everything. But now, it's up to me whether or not to push the shutter button or just enjoy the moment.
Thank you to everyone who supported me, and to those who, whether they wanted to or not, became part of the project. These images also remind me of the love surrounding us every day, and all of the people who are a part of our lives. It was a fun, emotional, sometimes frustrating, sometimes overwhelming ride, but definitely a worthwhile journey.
Here's a few of my favorites from the year! ~ Erin
