I Don't Know Why I Bother.......A Frustrated Photographer

Balmedie Beach

After coming home from a relaxing family holiday where the camera only made the briefest of appearances I was looking forward to getting back out and about. However the weather and work schedule seemed to be conspiring against me.
I missed some of the most amazing sunrises and intense coloured skies; all I could do was watch them through the windows at work, hoping that the sunset would be just as stunning.

Forvie Sands



On the odd occasion that I managed to get out take some sunsets I found that I couldn't take a photo and my mantra for the week became 'I don't no why I bother'. I started to become frustrated that I couldn't get out and that when I did find time or the weather cleared I found that I had lost my mojo. I decided that I would stop putting pressure on myself to take a photo and concentrate on editing the 1000's I have on the computer. Alas my editing skills (such as they are) had also left me. I was beginning to despair my only glimmer of hope was that I had a week off on the horizon. The week off coincided with the OH's week off so I would have freedom and no need to rush.

The week arrived and the first few mornings were grey, wet and miserable. I was on the verge of tears as I was desperate to get out and find my mojo. Wednesday came the alarm went off and peeping through the blinds I could see the beginnings of a beautiful sunrise. Off I set; it was a wonderful feeling to be out again. The weather up until then had been unusually mild but today there was a crispness to the air.

Rattray Head Lighthouse

Over the week I met up with some fellow photographer's who also had periods of frustration when work got in the way of photography. I often mention that I can't wait for retirement so I can head out for the whole day travelling near and far. But until then I will have to be happy with grabbing a few hours here and there.

Salmon Posts, Balmedie



It Will Be Alright on the Night

September has been a busy month and I am looking forward to catching my breath.

The set up

September saw my first photography exhibition being held, myself and Audrey riding a roller coaster of emotions from start to finish.
In all honesty Audrey did the all the hard work, planning and even heavy lifting at times, if it hadn't been for her drive this would have never taken place or been the success it was.

Audrey is part of a Small Businesses Networking Group and she gave a preview and talk to the group, the feedback was positive and some useful suggestions were given going forward.

Networking Group

The positive feedback boosted my confidence going into the evening as I was beyond nervous about speaking in public.

As this was our first exhibition we had no idea what to expect also unsure what people were expecting of us.
As the doors opened and the first people came in, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief that people had turned up, as that was my biggest fear that no-one appear.

My short intro

As the room began to fill I could feel my heart beating as I knew it would be time for me to stand up and introduce myself.  I had planned to simply introduce the event, thank people and a brief history on how I started, 5 minutes tops......nearly 30 minutes later all I could see from the corner of my was Audrey making wind up motions.

Full room

 There was wide range of attendees, fellow photographers, friends, FB followers. It was lovely to be able to meet face to face with people that I had only communicated with via messenger or email. The evening flew by in a flash and my fears were unfounded. I was actually overwhelmed by the turn out and the positive vibes that were  in the room.

On a personal level it was amazing to see my photos framed and hung as the screen doesn't always do them justice.

So now it's time to catch a breath, reflect on how it went and what's next ?

Summer Sun

Balmedie Beach

What happens when a photographer that struggles to sleep finally has a period of settled weather, an alarm set for 0230hrs to catch the sunrises. Although it is not uncommon for me not to need the alarm.
Destinations are usually the beach and this week a trip to Dunnottar and Stonehaven to catch first light. The beauty of the lengthening days means that even in the middle of the night it is still rather light allowing for some fantastic shots.

On a few occasions I have been surprised to find other like minded soles out and about taking photos at strange hours of the day.



Stonehaven Harbour at First Light



Pink Skies at Balmedie Beach



The Merkat Cross at the Castlegate, Aberdeen



Reflections on the River Dee

Short and sweet this week concentrating on the photos. Preparing for my summer holidays so look out for lots of photos of the West Coast Scotland.

Social media the curve ball it can throw

I thought I knew exactly what I was going to write this week however life threw a curve ball and I had to think fast to come up with a new blog. I have had a busy period on social media these past few weeks.

It all started with Visit Scotland getting in contact via my Instagram account. I have previously been showcased by Visit Scotland but it was still exciting to hear from them again.  I was asked if I would allow one of my photos to be displayed at various events throughout Scotland over the next year, of course I said yes as it is an amazing opportunity. 

Once I had submitted my photo Visit Scotland informed me that my image along with other photographers will be displayed on digital billboards at the major train stations in London as of the 18th March.
This took me by surprise as I thought it would only be events in Scotland that the photo would be shown, so if any of our lovely readers have spotted the displays please get in touch and let me know as it would make my day.


Balmedie Beach Sunrise 28.02.2016

It goes to show how beautiful this little section of beach is as I posted a photo to my Facebook page and could never have predicted what happened next.

Like any normal evening I posted a photo of Balmedie Beach (it just happens to be my favourite beach), my phone began to ping and vibrate at a ridiculous rate. I like to interact with the people who take the time to comment as I feel it gives that personal touch, OH has a different opinion to this and often reminds my that is why FB installed a like button.

Well that night I could not keep up with the lovely comments and was overwhelmed by the response, I usually achieve likes between 45-150. When I retired to bed I had over 1000 likes when I woke up in the morning it was up to 3000 likes. 

I was on a bit of high but soon the low hit as my subsequent posts have not reached that level. Do I mind, not really. Would I like to replicate the magic in that photograph of course, unfortunately the magic is in the hands of the light and timing. 

See what you think....

Balmedie Beach 13.03.2016

I'm glad I caught this curve ball, social media it certainly kept me busy this month.
Feel free to pop over to my Facebook page and Instagram @neily39.