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Embracing Fear and Pursuing Passion: A Guide to Following Your Dreams

Updated: Mar 13




Have you ever experienced those pivotal 'go big or go home' moments in life? It feels like I encounter them daily. A decade ago, I graduated with a Professional Photography Degree, and today, I find myself on the verge of becoming a full-time photographer with my own thriving business. Photography has been an integral part of my journey, a passion I relentlessly pursued, ultimately propelling me to where I stand today—making a sustainable living doing what I love. The road here wasn't easy, but the pride I feel in myself today is immeasurable.


Many of my fears revolve around the uncertainty of outcomes and the possibility of falling short of expectations. I confront these fears daily, especially when preparing to publish or showcase my work. The constant worry of misspelling a word or omitting crucial details underscores the importance of having someone else review my work. Recently, when faced with options for a new studio space, I took a leap of faith and chose the most expensive one, surpassing my budgetary limits. Despite this financial risk, the studio's prime location, high foot traffic, proximity to a café, and potential for subleasing office spaces and hosting events convinced me that it was the right choice. This decision marked a pivotal 'go big or go home' moment for me, and I am thrilled with the prospects ahead. I am eagerly looking forward to unveiling my new portrait studio and leveraging its numerous opportunities for growth and success.


My unwavering passion for photography serves as my driving force, propelling me towards greater heights. My ultimate goal is to provide individuals with exquisite portraits to adorn their homes—an intimate reflection of their inner and outer beauty captured through my lens. As I envision my future in the photography world, I dream of seeing my work displayed in prestigious art exhibitions, transcending time to be revered even 150 years from now. I yearn for a legacy where viewers, upon witnessing portraits of First Americans, will proudly acknowledge that a fellow First American, Savannah Ricehill of the Hōcąk People, skillfully crafted those images.

With a decade of professional experience and two decades of personal exploration in the field, I remain dedicated to self-improvement and business growth. Continuously investing in my craft, I acquire knowledge and top-tier equipment to ensure my subjects radiate through my photography. Through relentless practice and education, I refine my techniques, always striving for perfection. The notion of capturing the "best photo" has never crossed my mind, for I firmly believe that each shot presents an opportunity to surpass my previous accomplishments.


Arriving at a fulfilling juncture in life often coincides with the emergence of true passion. Recently, I brought to life my long-held dream—the launch of my passion project, aptly named FOCUS by Savannah. This venture embodies my desire to immerse myself in creativity, capturing genuine moments through the lens as I photograph and document individuals in their authentic essence. FOCUS by Savannah serves not only as a creative outlet but also as a personal endeavor that brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

As I reflect on this pivotal moment in my journey, I find solace and contentment in the realization that I am now able to pursue my passion wholeheartedly. This stage of my life is imbued with a sense of purpose and excitement, propelling me forward on a path where creativity and self-expression intertwine harmoniously. I embrace each day with gratitude, knowing that I have reached a point where my artistic vision can flourish, enriching both my life and the lives of those I have the privilege to photograph.


Ultimately, remember to aim high or don't bother! Pursue your dreams, even when they scare you; take time to make sound decisions. If things seem overwhelming, start with small steps. It took me a decade of gradual progress to reach this point—yes, I still feel fear, but my passion for my craft is stronger. Keep investing in yourself; never stop learning or take shortcuts; always give it your all. This dedication will pave the way to a joyful and satisfying life.

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