When things (or you) go Downhill
What do you title a blog post about something this ridiculous? The alternate title for this should probably be "Overcoming some old anxiety in spite of a ridiculous setback"
I have always admired the photographers that can pull off a full day of mini sessions. Taking on a large number of clients in one day takes a lot of mental stamina and confidence in your shooting abilities no matter what the lighting, the subjects, the weather, or life throws at you. It has always been something that I put off because of anxiety and self-doubt. This year I put out the call to gauge interest for some Christmas minis and I was overwhelmed at the response. Mental hurdle number one (Is anybody going to want to book with you?) was cleared.
So imagine me yesterday morning... It was my first day of Christmas Minis 10 shoots this week and 8 next week. I am beyond excited because we're booked, we're scheduled, and everything is setup on time. We even have scones and hot coffee from my favorite local coffee shop. It's 9 am and a blustery 35 degrees outside!!! It's cold but I'm determined! There is a little ice on the hill just starting to melt, and no more than 30 seconds after I told my clients to "be very careful on the hill. It's a little steep and icy" I fell. Ya'll I didn't just gracefully slip a little. I BIT IT! Holding two cameras and a ladder I fell flat on my booty and heard an audible pop in my ankle. When I tried to stand and couldn't, I quickly went from excited to slightly panicked. My amazing husband stepped in to help me get around all morning. He danced and wiggled to help get those sweet kiddo smiles. Then on our break I made a quick trip to Urgent Care where they confirmed that it wasn't broken (Hallelujah!) but that I had a bad sprain and would be rocking a super-cute new boot for the next 4 weeks. I may have shed a few tears out of frustration. I am finally doing this thing that I have been so afraid to take on and now I need help just to get up and down the hill where I'm shooting... with 10 more shoots to go! Then I made a decision to get over myself and keep shooting.
All but one family kept their appointments and we powered through. As annoying as it is to get around in a boot and not be able to drive for a few days, I'm so thankful. We got through the weekend. I did something I've always wanted to do in a place that I'm growing to love. We have some beautiful photos to show for it! I got to see my husband doing what he does best, stepping up when others need him. And most importantly, in the paraphrased and likely butchered words of our amazing pastor Josh Graves, "Anxiety got to be along for the ride, but it didn't get to control the radio or determine the outcome." I'm going to call that a win.
For the families that stuck with me this weekend.... THANK YOU!
