The real value of photography..........

We have all done it, pick up the camera, taken a shot - really for no other reason that because we can.  Thats what having a DSLR or digital P & S is all about.

But have you ever stopped to think of the real value of your photography and what that photo will mean later on?

Being a Pet and Sports photographer in my photography business at On the Ball Photography I am constantly reminded just how much my photos mean to someone.  Lets face it, we all have a pet ( well most of us), we feed them, pat them and enjoy them, but never really think about what we are left with once they are gone.

This is where the value of photography plays a much more important part that any income it can make. The photos that I take ( and you take) may be all that is left for people when their pets - or family members leave us.

I had this lightbulb moment sometime ago when a friend lost her dog that I took a few shots of.  It dawned on me that I need to give every photo I take 100% of my attention and expertise to ensure that one day - hopefully a long way away- that through their tears they are able to reach out to their loved one.

Sadly, my time has come to appreciate the effort that I have put into my photography of my own animals.  Having one or two ( okay a few) dogs, I sadly lost my dog that I would really call my right arm yesterday.  He was my heart and soul and what we call in the dog world as "My Heart" dog.  We competed successfully around the world together and it was because of what he taught me over the years together that I made the Australian team to compete at the World Championships in May this year, but really - he was my best friend.

If I ever needed another reminder about the value of photography, its when all you have left of your own best friends are the images that you captured and I am truly grateful for this one.  It shows how he looked at me quiet often.

Sleep well little one, it has been a long hard road for you and you deserve to run free.  I am a better person for having you walk by my side and a much better photographer for it as well.

Give each photo you take 100% as one day it will be the memory you will be left with.

Mickey

Today I learnt that life truly is precious and no amount of chocolate helps to heal the pain