Whatever your aspirations, the first thing you need to do to take that first step is to believe that you can do it. This was one of the hardest things for me to overcome as a photographer. I always saw many of my images as "mediocre" or "average" in their composure, in their balance and in their overall story telling.

Then, one day, things changed. I decided that I was not average. I was not just a hobbyist. I started telling myself that my images could be great if I put the effort into it. So, that's what I did. I started researching new techniques and new ideas. I started following other photographers and watching their work.

The next thing I did was put these new ideas to work. I started to take the time to compose each shot with care. I was taking the additional effort to triple-check settings. I was beginning to step out of my comfort zone.

Wouldn't you know that the extra effort paid off. I started seeing images that wowed me as well as others. I saw a dramatic change in my abilities and in my thinking. I was now the photographer I was striving to become!

However, I always need to keep one thing in check: I can ALWAYS improve. This sense of humility keeps me honest band keeps me constantly learning new ways to take images. New poses, new compositions, new styles are out there to learn. Am I a better photographer? YES I am!!! But, to think that I am the best at what I do would be conceited and I would contest ABSOLUTELY ANYONE who says that about themselves. there is always someone out there who knows a little more that you in certain areas.

The moral of this story is to believe in yourself. Whether you get the highest of praises or the harshest ofcriticizems, believe in yourself. Don't let anyone steer you away from your passion. Give it your all and you will become better that you could ever imagine!