Giving Myself Permission

I rarely share photos of myself. I love using my cameras and being in control, but I get anxious and uneasy when the roles are reversed. I’m so used to centering work that it’s the only way I really know how to identify. But even the idea of sharing my work has become overwhelming - so I stopped. It felt like too much.

I’ve quietly taken on more work than ever since launching @heraldocreativestudio. It was a necessary step to evolve from my previous career path in design and marketing in the tech world. But I’ll admit that I haven’t been the most balanced and it’s difficult to sustain a good pace to not only keep the creativity alive, but also be there for my family and friends. I’ll continue to evolve it to pay the bills, but I need to be a little selfish right now.

When I look at this photo (taken on 35mm Kodak film by @ryanrhouse - thanks, pal) I see my self doubt and uncertainty. I see effects of dedicating hours into creating meaningful work for others, but unsure of where it leads. I’m wondering if I’m pouring the right foundation. 

But since this photo was taken, I have had meaningful conversations that lit a fire inside. I’ll work towards having clarity about myself and ultimately what I will be dedicating my time towards. Thank you to my wife Alisa, @badion , @ramosdaniel09 , @slo.Michelle , @kdonohuephotography , @culture.kat and others for listening and supporting me!

This post is really a challenge to myself to stop overthinking. I want share pieces of myself and my work without thinking about strategy, branding, algorithms, goals, etc. I’m giving myself permission to find myself as an artist and storyteller and just be me.

More to come…