When is my break

in

Yesterday while waiting in line at Subway to order lunch I was struck by the similar looks on each employees face working there. Each look said the same thing, "When is my break." Not only did their expressions speak loudly to this truth, but the way they performed their job and interacted with each customer. No joy, no enthusiasm, just doing it because they have to. And that's a damn shame.

But this isn't me pointing my finger and laughing at the people who work for minimum wage. That shit's hard, and sometimes it's all people can do. But no, I was struck by the thought that what is it these people "should" be doing instead. I mean, what are their dreams, passions, the things that keep them up at night? What could I bring up in conversation that would allow them to talk my ear off for a good hour or two? Those are the things they need to be doing. (And I hope they're pursuing them, or at least I hope they have someone in their lives that encourages them.)

Life is hard and we all know it. Some of us will work our whole lives at jobs we hate. I know this, I've seen my Dad do it. But now, more than ever, we have opportunities growing like wild fire to get out there and crush the norm under our feet. I think Gary Vee said this at his talk this year at SXSW, but it's like the California gold rush right now. We just need to be completely honest with ourselves and figure out what we're passionate about. I know I'm still searching my heart and figuring it out one day at a time.

It takes time. Slow down. Don't rush it. Make sure you take time to build a solid foundation. I came across this video this week and it inspired the crap out of me. If you have any creative bone in your body then it will speak to you as well.

The video is shot and narrated by photographer Zack Arias.

silent noise

in

I write because I want to. I don't have to tell you anything. But the term "transparent" is becoming more and more popular these days. Gary Vaynerchuk, Jason Fried and Aaron Irizarry come to mind when I think of being transparent. But what we call the internet is really nothing more than a glorified mask that we wear to hide our true personalities. Meaning I can't convey to you a certain emotion or feeling without using a stupid emoticon. Sure a picture is worth a thousand words, and I respect the art form of photography. But what I'm saying is that we can't really get to know each other just over this digital medium. But Kyle, how can you say that? You met your wife on myspace and only met her 5 days (in person) before you tied the knot. Then call me crazy.

My Current State of Mind

So amidst all this noise online I have found myself being more silent lately. Turning more inward and focusing on my photography. Trying to figure out my place in this world. Wondering what really makes me successful and what hard work is really all about. I have this constant feeling that I'm right on the brink of something huge.

SXSW

I'm looking forward to SXSW next week. Getting to see friends old and new. I'm preparing myself for the overwhelming sensation of that many nerds all in one place. But I'm expecting some seriously great times to be had. I won't be anywhere without my camera. Also, my good bud Chris Wallace will be launching his new themes company called UpThemes while we're there. So if you're going to be in Austin next Friday please come out and help us celebrate.

One last note

I'm really thankful for the friends I have made online. I only hope to strengthen those relationships by meeting you in person and sharing some coffee/beer and some good conversation.

Project 365 Week 07

in

The project continues to be a challenge for me. Some have said congrats on making it this far, and thank you, but I still can't imagine what it will feel like on something like day 229.

I was thinking about this the other night. With my dedication to this project, as well as my 52 Profiles project, plus working full-time and taking 7 hours of school, not to mention having a life outside of all this to spend time with my wife and friends, am I crazy? How can I possibly feel like I'm not accomplishing anything? Where is this leading me? What do I hope to gain from this?

In pursuing my passions I hope to find the answers.

Here are my three favorite shots from this past week.

Day 050 - Right Now

Day 050

Day 051

Day 051

Day 052 - Nothing out of the ordinary

Day 052

Until next week

Thank you so much to everyone who is commenting and sending your encouragements.

Project 365 Week 06

in

I was bored with color this past week. When I first started taking photographs all I shot was black and white film. I think it's a good way to learn about light and composition, but I think it can also become a crutch. There is always a challenge with color.

So I was happy to take a break from color this week and just focus on the composition and lighting. I also did a little more post processing this week. After I saw a friend of mines work where he really pushed the greyscale in his photos I wanted to try the same effect. I'm not sure how to technically describe it, but to me it make the photo feel flat or like it has a matte finish.

Week 06 Favorites

Enjoy the black and white goodness.

Day 39 - Mono Chrome

Day 039

Day 40 - The Stress of My Modern Office

Day 040

Day 41 - The Window to My Soul

Day 041

Your feedback is appreciated

As always I'd love to hear what you think. A friend of mine told me this weekend that the only way to go is up. That's definitely an encouragement. It's hard to keep putting myself in front of the camera day after day. But I know when this year is over I will be proud to look back on this project and have the sense of accomplishing something great.

Project 365 Week 05

in

I'm working my way backwards this morning. Starting at the end and going back to the beginning. Sometimes that's the way I feel I'm living my life.

We're already in to the middle of February and it feels like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be but something big is about to happen. I've seen so many changes, good changes, happening all around me that I can't help but remain hopeful for something amazing about to unfold.

And some things have already begun to unfold themselves. Only time will tell.

Weekly Roundup

Here are my 3 favorite photos from this past week.

Day 034 - Untitled

Day 034

Day 035 - Good Nutrition

Day 035

Day 037 - Connection

Day 037

What Do You Think

Here's your chance to tell me what you think. Whether you hate it or love it, I'd like to hear from you. All feedback, when constructive, can only help me. Thanks to everyone who continues to support me and show me some love.