Lately, I feel like I have been in an on-and-off funk with my blog photographs. As most of you know, my husband takes my photos. He does a phenomenal job, doesn't complain and is 100% self taught. He is a style blogger's dream. Truly. However, this summer has been somewhat of a trick. He has an extremely busy schedule. I am a taxi cab driver for camps, running errands and sports practices. Weekends have been filled with summer fun, family time, getaways with friends and sleeping in.
Squeezing in time for blog pictures hasn't been the highest on our agenda. Don't get me wrong, I take my site very seriously and have always put my whole hardhearted effort into it. Recently, many of our photo sessions have been rushed, haven't been well thought out, not taken during "magic" hour and I just haven't been feeling it. This whole "not" feeling it syndrome has been a bit of a bummer because I began the whole comparison game...comparing myself to other bloggers, what they are wearing, their lighting, clothing, angles, makeup, hair, how many likes they get on Instagram and the list goes on. I know. Ridiculous, right? This whole ballgame of being a blogger can take it's toll on you when it comes to posting photos of yourself several times a week. We are all our own worst critic, but sometimes it gets way out of hand. And we all know that this goes way beyond a blog...it happens every day in all of our lives.
This summer I have really had to reel myself back to reality and remind myself that I am not 24 years old anymore. I have wrinkles, sagging and cellulite. I am a mom of elementary aged children. I don't have a professional photographer that I can afford to hire. For the most part, our bank account is used for saving money, taking family trips, my kids' college fund, paying bills and life's neccestities. This blog has become my stay-at-home job, so to speak, and with any job comes responsibilities, commitments, becoming better, working hard and submitting your best work/projects. When I think about all of these things, it honestly puts a pit in my stomach. Just a few short years ago I was taking outfit photos in my backyard and was proud of them (I still am), but as you grow in any career or hobby and the longer you do it, the better you want to get and focus on perfecting your craft. With that comes more pressure, occasional self doubt and again the dreaded comparison of not being good enough at something you are passionate about.
Long story short, if I plan to continue sharing pieces of my life and wardrobe with you ladies, I have to find a way to give myself a break, remember why I started blogging, have fun during these times we have together during this journey and embrace the times when Ross and I hit it right. I must say, I am pretty pumped about the ones posted today; prouder than I have been in a long time. If that makes me conceited or arrogant, I apologize. I am not even close to perfect and will never be a leading style blogger in the sea of blogs. I just need to find my way back to being content with everything I post regardless if the lighting sucked, I had a crooked smile in all the pictures and if my outfit wasn't the most blog worthy. Honestly, I just want to make sure that every time I come here and share, I am being me and accept all my imperfections because at the end of the day, that is what I am trying to teach my own kids.
Chicwish Mint Lace Dress c/o (I am wearing a size medium) // Chicwish Crochet Lace Cardigan c/o // Charlotte Russe Ankle Boots (option here and here) // Sweet Clover Designs Necklace c/o // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Bangle Set c/o // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Ring c/o // Gorjana Ring c/o
In case you skipped all of the above, let's talk clothes. You guys, this isn't the first time I have posted about Chicwish and it won't be the last...most likely more will come this week. I got this mint lace dress and crochet cardigan in the mail last week without any intentions of wearing them together, but they were meant to be paired. Many of you have asked about Chicwish's quality since the items come from Hong Kong. I own close to a dozen items from their online boutique and can honestly say I have only been disappointed in one item. Everything else has been stellar and very well made. So, if you are on the fence about ordering anything, I hope I can ease your mind and that you feel confident in your purchase. Plus, get 20% off your entire purchase until July 27th.
Thanks for stopping by and have a great start to the week! xoxo
63 comments:
Beautiful photos! The lighting is gorgeous and that dress has such an ethereal feel to it. I enjoy seeing your outfits but also think it's great that you are enjoying summer/family/friends. :)
I love that dress! I know what you mean, it is sooo hard to get pictures in during a busy sched. We neverrr make it to magic hour
xo Lauryn
Lauryncakes | Beauty & Fashion
this outfit is beyond amazing
This dress is so beautiful! x
www.lemontierres.com
These photo's are stunning, the back lighting is beautiful. Your outfit, gorgeous! You are one of my favorite style bloggers, girl you need to give yourself some more credit! ;)
Beautiful Photos and outfit!!
Desiree @ Love Desiree
I can post comments again! I know how you feel about comparing yourself to other bloggers out there - my blog is not by any means successful in numbers but I have since come to realize that I enjoy blogging and it's not for the numbers. It's finding woman that are equally into clothes or connecting with people thousands of miles away.
With that said, I have come to terms of my boring alley way background, no "magic" your lighting or my clothes being a bit boring.
Always love blog and how you keep it real. And these photos are awesome!
Alice
www.happinessatmidlife.com
Your site is the one I go to every morning. You should have no hesitations about your photos, your posts, and your style. I love it! I think what makes your blog so unique is that you are real. You are so easy to relate to even though you are lovely and have fabulous style. I love the lace look today - so feminine. My daughter will love the dress(: Susan
These pics are amazing Shanna and you look gorgeous. At the end we are all doing our best and that's all that matters.
xo
PinkSole
Oh my goodness, these photos (& you!) are gorgeous!! You should absolutely be proud of them! I could completely relate to so much of what you shared here about wanting to publish the best product you possibly can and feeling uneasy when it doesn't turn out that way. All we can do is the very best with what we have and let everything else go - you know I love you & I think you are doing an amazing job!! xoxo
www.pennypincherfashion.com
I just haven't figured out the practicality of taking blog photos during "magic hour." First, who in their right mind can do that in the morning? So that's a no-go. Then, the minute I come home from work I want to de-suit. And my husband wants to work out. So yes, we miss magic hour all the time.
Don't worry about getting things perfect, just worry about being you and not getting caught up in the comparison game.
http://jax-and-jewels.blogspot.com
Very nicely stated. I think that your priorities are just as they should be. We all struggle with issues of comparison, but it is nice to be reminded that we are not alone in this.
And you husband is doing a fantastic job taking your photos. These are simply beautiful.
Erica
www.thedecorina.com
Oh Shanna! Your photos are awesome and I love your blog - you are real and I love that your outfits are affordable and doable. Comparison is most certainly the thief of joy but I'll tell ya what, you have nothing to worry about. You look stunning in every picture and no one would know your pictures haven't been well thought out, etc. Your readers love them because we love you. At 46 I love your style and find my self reminding myself that as much as I want to look as wonderful as you do I am waaaaaay older! Ha! You inspire me anyway. Just keep the faith, your blog is special and I probably wouldn't enjoy it nearly as much if you had a professional photographer. I love blogs because I see real women wearing real clothing! I love what you do!
Agree with the others above. Your photos are awesome. It takes a lot of guts to post pics of yourself, and your right you are usually your worst critic. Personally I would rather take the pics that be the one having my pic taken. Have been trying to get better about that. Think most people just feel awkward having pics taken, and it is hard to get comfortable. Seeing your photos has made me try to step up my style. Love what you do! O and by the way ran to Nordstrom Friday after seeing your post Kendra Scott earrings were on sale and the one by me was out :(
These pictures are so beautiful Shanna! Although I think all of your pictures are :)
You're right, these pictures are spectacular! I feel like it's so much harder to find time to take pictures during the summer, because there are so many fun things I want to do! Just keep workin' it girl, you're amazing:)
You look incredibly stunning in these photos, Shanna! Ross needs to come give my and my hubby some lessons! ;) And I completely feel you on the comparison thing. Blogging can be such a hard balance, and comparison is a super-frustrating aspect of it!
Shanna you truly are beautiful inside and out! I'm always so impressed that you come out with these amazing outfits and are a mom. Believe me you're exceeding the blogging craft!
xo Adri
www.adrilately.blogspot.com
I love that you care so much. It seems a lot of bloggers these days aren't putting the thought into their posts and are just slapping things up to have something for the day. You are one of my style inspirations so keep up the FABULOUS work!
I too sometimes get wrapped up in comparing my blog to others and it can really stress a girl out! I hope you can find that balance again of feeling like blogging is more fun than work. Something I think every blogger struggles with at some point!
-Sharon
The Tiny Heart
I haven't been feeling 100% on either - I think the summer makes it hard. I'd much rather be out doing fun stuff or lounging by the pool than blogging. But I still do enjoy it most days and I think that's what keeps us going.
BTW, Ross NAILED it with these photos -beautiful my friend!
Hang in there Shanna.....you are doing & looking your best ever! Just take blogging one day at a time...just like life!
Rebecca
www.redtagchiclosangeles.com
I think all of your feelings are really normal.
So often we grow and put forth a better effort, but since we're living it we're not noticing it as much.
It's also all about balance - no one should think you don't care or are not taking this seriously because you spent time in the summer living life with your family. And if they do think that way, you don't need them around.
Gorgeous photos today!
You are so right - what a busy schedule you have! I love this outfit - the lace paired with the blue, and the necklace you chose! So pretty!
www.madeintheshadeblog.com
We all feel that way, it is hard not to compare ourselves to others....I am already dreading going back to work and figuring out how I'm going to manage my schedule...I feel like I keep taking on more and more and never let anything go to balance it out...I'm driving myself crazy! And your pictures here are stunning...you know I love ya :)
Shanna, this is gorgeous! That blue/mint color is so pretty on you and I love the feminine details. I hear you about self critiquing. I am so guilty of this. The picture taking is a huge job and I get so frustrated when it doesn't work out - especially if the outfit is good (haha). BTW - I never once thought your recent pictures were sub-par. You always look so good.
I wish I had this dress to wear to Luke Bryan this Friday!!! Gorgeous!! I always love your pics:)
I can relate to this because we are backyard bloggers over here but these photos are stunning. Don't be hard on yourself - it's hard to do it all!
These are seriously so of my favorite pictures of yours--you are glowing and that color is fantastic on you :) I also loved reading this post--it is def. not easy to be a blogger/perfectionist! I am a new blogger and my pictures are NOT where I want them to be, but its a reminder that they will get better and even FABULOUS bloggers like yourself have their own insecurities. You always kill it girlfriend.
Tori
FashionBlingGirlyThings
Shanna- I am a brand new blogger and your blog is one of my favorites! I am so jealous of your pics!! Honestly, your pics are why Ive only done old school style blogging and not fashion blogging yet! I said that to say, you're amazing and do an amazing job! I love your honestly though! You're beautiful!
www.onestylishmom.com
These photos are fab, golden hour is always the best time to take them! Don't be hard on yourself you are a great blogger, mom..etc! I loved meeting you at Lucky Fabb keep up the good work and embrace flaws you may think you have!
XO Chelsea http://www.shesaidhesaidfashion.com/
These photos are so stunning and I LOVE your lacy cardigan!
Your blog and voice have always stood out to me because they are honest and genuine. That hasn't changed! Whenever we get stuck in ruts, it really is so important to remember why we began... sometimes, that's all the inspiration we need :)
Aw, Shanna. I hope you know you are inspiring beyond your pictures. It's your authenticity, your voice, your ability to keep it real even though you have achieved that certain level of success (Hi, you've been in major publications!!) to which many aspire. I mean, the fact that you still take the time to make other people in the community feel important for what they do is more appreciated than you know. :) So please don't let those little voices get you down or keep you from doing what you do in a way that works for YOU. Your readers love you for YOU and not your lighting.
Gina -- On the Daily Express
P.S. Sorry for the double comment. But I just want to say I'm getting ready to attend a RS event and I would NEVER be going if not for your very sincere post about attending a blogging event despite your fears and insecurities. Thanks for being inspiring! P.P.S. You look great in your outfit but that was obviously secondary to me today. :)
I love your pictures! I think your husband does an amazing job and I love your blog! And that dress. I love that dress too!
I have just discovered most of my comments aren't going through to you. Call me an airhead... I think it was something with my pop-up blocker. All that to say, I love your style and so enjoy reading your blog. I totally understand how you feel. I have actually just been posting about the same thing myself. Blogs are so amazing, but I have to remind myself that nothing is perfect and I cannot compare. You are beautiful! Thanks for sharing with us.
xo, Amy Ann
The Real Arnolds
Ah the comparison game... the thief of joy (I think I read that on pinterest somewhere...)! I do it all of the time. I totally bum myself out with "Look what they are doing" or "Look how great they look" and "look how tiny I am." And then I think "Why do I even do this??" I totally get you. It is tough. But you are amazing. You are one of the bloggers I totally look up to. I think you are amazing!!
Nikki
thefashionablewife.com
I definitely know how you feel. I compare myself way too much to other bloggers. It's so bad, but so hard not to do. I love these pictures of you, and the lace is gorgeous!!
xo,
Angela
Love that necklace, very ladylike outfit! Haven't heard of Chicwish, definitely checking it out!
http://www.robincharmagne.com/blog
I have those same boots. And I loooove that dress!? So beautiful.
The Starving Inspired
I think you struck a chord in most, if not all, of us fashion bloggers out there. I think we all go thru the same thing. Comparing, self-doubting, wanting to give up, I guess it's part of human nature. But like you said, we just have to remind ourselves why we're doing this in the first place. Thanks for sharing this! ~Cynthia | My Rose Colored Shades
Love what you wrote. It's funny because I never considered myself to be one of those people who compare themselves a lot but I find myself doing it with the blog. I see people who started the same time as me working with brands I only dream of working with or having professional photographers work with them for free, etc etc etc.... it's hard to remind myself not to slide into that mode of comparing and like "what am i doing wronggg" haha but I try to remember the things I am doing right. It's funny because I always think your photography looks beautiful but everyone is their own worst critic!
Shana, you look so gorgeous. The photos are perfect and I really love your dress. It is so pretty and the color is stunning. I can relate regarding blog photos, I definitely do not have a professional photographer. It is great that your hubby takes your photos:-)
http://foodfashionandflow.blogspot.com
Well these are certainly gorgeous! I've had little luck with magic hour, I'm always at work or my Husband/Mom is at work when I'm off so my photos are usually in the middle of the natural, bright, mid-day light. I highly recommend tripod and a remote for your camera. I bought mine on amazon for really cheap, and then you don't need anyone around, you just set the timer!
-Ash
www.stylizedwannabe.blogspot.com
These are beautiful pictures! Fitting in blogging pictures is so important to me, but life is more important. So sometimes that means we aren't taking pictures at the best time of day. It is hard not to compare in the blogging world, but it is important not to in order to keep it fun. Keep up the great work!!
www.amemoryofus.com
These are such amazing pics of you!! Wish I could go to pretty locations too but with two very wee ones & no child care it's difficult. Your husband does an awesome job!
Marta, xo
www.sweatersstripesandsweets.com
Wow, you look amazing! I can definitely tell these pictures were taken at the "magic hour"! It made me laugh because you said that you used to take pictures in your backyard and that's totally what I do with my tripod :) Maybe when my son gets older I can teach him to take pics, LOL!
HELLO Gorgeous.
I totally feel how you feel, not "feeling it. Not feeling that we always have the time, or feeling that we just need to relax.
I think you are doing an amazing job, and I read everyday. No matter what is different from the next you always keep me coming back for more!
You are such an inspiration! I've said it before and I'll say it again, one of the main reasons why I love your blog so much is because your extremely real! Your so relatable and I really enjoy reading whats on your mind. The way you voice your opinions in such an authentic way is truly amazing. You may try to compare yourself to other bloggers but in reality theres a lot of other bloggers that compare themselves to you! (Myself included) You have accomplished so much and have worked with some extraordinary brands! Your an amazing woman, Shanna, not to mention an extremely stylish one at that!!
I have to LOL at the "magic hour" comment.. My magic hour is whenever I can actually go somewhere to shoot haha!
xo, Erica
Casually Styled
Shanna please don't feel bad! I love your blog. I feel you on the blog photos and comparing myself. I am a newbie blogger and I already feel overwhelmed that I'm not pretty or tall enough or have better clothes or what not!
I love the minty bluish color of the dress!
www.misshotcouture.blogspot.com
I was just going to say how fabulous these pictures are and then read through your post and know you don't need to be told. Honestly, what is the point of blogging if it's not bringing you happiness? I just came back from a long break and it was much needed. I just didn't care to put in the effort while I was focusing on other things, but now that I'm back, I'm ready to hit the ground sprinting lol Don't feel bad, we all need time to reevaluate sometimes. You're a beautiful person, inside and out. xo
-Chelsea
chelsandthecity.blogspot.com
You are just glowing in all of these pictures! I love the feminine lacy pieces with the rugged boots. Great contrast! :)
http://www.confessionsoftheglitterati.com/
Ahh the comparison game.. we all do it. It's human nature. But I think, scratch that, I KNOW that you are one of the best bloggers and most beautiful women (inside and out) around! These photos are gorgeous and your dress is beautiful. LOVE.
And don't feel bad about taking a breather here and there from blogging.. I mean, look at me. I popped out a baby and it's like I forgot how to dress myself. Haha. :)
LOVE YOU!
xo, Yi-chia
Always Maylee
So, so gorgeous! These photos make you look like an angel. Seriously. xox
Shanna! These photos are incredibly gorgeous, kudos to your hubby for being self-taught and doing this great a job (and to you for being so beautiful and photogenic). I definitely feel that as we progress in blogging we want to be better and better, but at the same time, it can get exhausting. You deserve to give yourself a break and find a balance that works for you. We'll all be here :) xo
I totally feel you! It is so difficult not to compare yourself to other bloggers. I was just comparing myself last night and then reminding myself not to do that. lol. But holy smokes, look at the gorgeous lighting in these photos! I think it's hard to shoot during the golden hour in the summer because the golden hour happens so late at night. I'm usually in my pj's by then. lol.
http://kacieskloset.blogspot.com/
These pictures are AMAZING! And like always I love how you share from your heart. Beautiful words, beautiful girl.
I have one tip for you....sunglasses! I throw on my sunglasses when I don't have time to touch up my makeup and it makes me feel less self conscious. Then again, I'm not a big time blogger but still...don't stress so much! You are a natural beauty and have amazing style. :-)
-AJ
OccasionallyAJ.com
I have one tip for you....sunglasses! I throw on my sunglasses when I don't have time to touch up my makeup and it makes me feel less self conscious. Then again, I'm not a big time blogger but still...don't stress so much! You are a natural beauty and have amazing style. :-)
-AJ
OccasionallyAJ.com
The light is beautiful in your photos. I love how dreamy that lace dress is!
notjessfashion.com
Gorgeous look
xx
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