on stepping out of your comfort zone

If there is one thing in life I think a lot of us avoid (intentionally or unintentionally) it is stepping out of our comfort zone. It is easy to become accustomed to the things we feel most confident and successful at that we rarely choose to take a leap of faith. The thing about stepping out of your comfort zones though is that it can be the ultimate learning experience. The uncomfortable part about learning is that it often surfaces the flaws we have but the more you practice at something that makes you uncomfortable the better you become. Believe me when I say that I am in no way an expert at stepping out of my comfort zone but I can definitely speak from experience at the times that I have.

A month or so ago an opportunity came across my path and looking back now thankfully it was one of those situations where you can't really turn it down but at the time I wanted to out of fear. My darling little neighbor girl turned 8 and was getting baptized during the month of October and her mom (my next door neighbor) asked me if I would be willing to take her baptism pictures. Just as any situation merits that makes you step out of your comfort zone, I immediately wanted to respond with, "I really shouldn't. There are so many photographers out there far better than me. This is such a special time in your daughter's life, a once in a lifetime kind of moment, and I would want nothing but the very best to commemorate her day!" At least those were just a few of the negative thoughts consuming my mind in that moment. Unlike the one tiny flickering flame, the only positive thought in my head contrasting all the others, "Meagan, this would be such a good learning opportunity for you to step outside of your comfort zone and try something you know in your heart you've always wanted to try with a family you know, love, and trust." So I had a choice to make in that moment. Let fear and doubt overshadow my opportunity or seize an opportunity to learn and grow.

I spent the weeks leading up to the photo shoot practicing and planning. When the day finally came, I was a complete ball of nerves. Even when they were people I knew, loved, and trusted I was still shaking all over and doing my very best to not let any doubt or insecurity show. I did all I could do in those moments, gave it my very best, and this is what came out of it ... 

Pictures of a beautiful family that I am really proud of.

I learned so much from my first photo shoot with this sweet family. Some constructive criticism for myself like to look for details that can't be fixed in post processing and that I need so much more practice with what feels like the impossible task of getting everyone in a family of 6 all looking at me and genuinely smiling at the same time! haha But I also learned that there is so much beauty in simplicity. My off the wall ideas didn't turn out quite like the organic simple and natural poses did. I learned to trust in my ability and talent that I feel blessed to have been given. The best part about it all was that they loved them! That is what truly mattered the most to me. I couldn't have asked for anything more from my first photo shoot and I am grateful for the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone for a passion of mine that is worth the risk!

More pictures from my photo shoot with Katelyn & the Staley family HERE.

To Katelyn :: Thank you for letting me be a small part in your very special day! There could not have been a more beautiful girl than you in that white dress!