When I was a kid I always loved cameras. I would save up my money to buy a disposable camera (the cool ones with the flash!) and take them to Walmart to be developed. I have boxes and boxes (I know this because I am trying to move them around for the basement remodel) of photos in my basement from those days. I took photos of the people in my life and the places I went – but mostly the people!

I’ve always been a people person and I have always valued photos of people. Even on vacations, studying abroad, and any adventure you can here me say ” Come get in this photo with _____ in the background!” A picture is always made better by a personality thrown in. 

When I started blogging and got my first DSLR, my photography style started changing. I took more photos without people – like for recipe posts, DIY projects, and product reviews. But I still like sneaking the personal shot in – maybe the hand, or the people in the kitchen. I can’t help it. 

My Instagram is a healthy mix of the people in my life and the things I love – but mostly the people (are you catching a theme yet?) I had someone comment on how my feed wasn’t a great one because I had “too many people in it.” After it hurt my feelings and I spent too much time dwelling/ stressing on the photos to post on Instagram, I realized that I can’t cut the people out of my life. They are the most important part of my life and my blog! I have a people feed and I embrace that – and unfortunately I will lose followers over it but even more so, I know I will find more people who love people through it as well. 

I’m learning that we all have different styles and not everyone is going to love me (this one is hard for this people pleaser) but when I am myself and I photograph in my style the Lord can use me how He wants and I can be an encouragement and inspiration to others (even when it is not everyone – it is the right ones!) 

I’m going back to the people pictures. Back to the candid and posed of the every day. I want to document life – take photos of children that grow so fast and pictures of my community, my friends and the times we share. I also want to help my friends realize just how darn beautiful they are and how their laughter, cuddles, and conversations are beautiful! There really is beauty in the everyday and beauty in those around us. 

What is your take on photos? With or without people? How about bloggers and instagramers? Do you love capturing the everyday moments? How do you feel about getting your picture taken?