Finding Your Passions

What are your passions and how do you find them? When you have found them, what do you do with this information? Thinking back over old memories, my passions are those themes which have inspired me throughout my life. Some are hobbies, some are causes, but all combine to keep my flame burning.

Photography is one of my passions. Reading and writing are others. All three are pastimes which I recall enjoying for as long as I can remember.

Being outside is another passion. This is something I can combine with photography and my love of nature. I’m very fortunate that my work enables me to pursue these two passions if not on a daily basis, then at least on a regular one.

All of these passions were encouraged by my family. As I grew and learnt, so my skills in each improved. As an adult, the relationship with family members has also grown. Rather than teaching me, they are now my cheerleaders. Encouraging and supporting me as I go. Again, I know that I am very lucky in this respect. Finding a wonderful husband who is also on my side adds an extra layer to the cheerleading team. Once again, I am one of the fortunate ones.

So I know my passions, and I have the opportunity to follow these every day. How can I use my own passions to inspire others though? This is something I have considered a lot over the last year or so.

Those of you who follow me on Twitter will know that one of the causes which I am very connected to is that of veganism as a way of life. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to submit work for consideration as part of an exhibition in London. The exhibition focuses on the rights of animals, promoting the vegan lifestyle as a healthy and sustainable way of living, which helps both animals and the planet.

I was delighted when I heard that my photographs had been accepted for the display. My pictures show animals which are often used as produce, as replaceable resources for humans. I wanted to use my photographs to show the life spark within these creatures. The inner fire which may be viewed through their eyes, the windows to the soul.

I realise my passions won’t necessarily change people outright. I hope I can help to make people think about their lifestyle choices though.

My passions might have no relation to your own passions at all. However, alongside my business photography and my portrait work, I am finding ways to use photography as a means of highlighting some of my other passions. The causes which I believe in, brought to life through my new career. It’s what gets me up in the morning and I encourage everybody to find their own passions in life. Don’t look for the barriers, find your inner drive to push on through. Be passionate about your passions.

If you’re in London on 27 May, please do drop in and see the exhibition. It’s being hosted at The Strand Gallery, and is called Behind Closed Doors. I’d love to meet you there!