About one year ago, I set out on a challenge: to take a new set of self-portraits each month for an entire year. The goal was simple: refine my skills, experiment with lighting and poses, and stay creatively sharp. Now, 12 months later, I’m amazed at the growth I’ve seen, both as a photographer and in my own self-confidence. What started as a technical exercise became a deeply personal journey of self-expression and discovery.
Each shoot brought something new. I explored techniques, tried poses I wasn’t sure would work, and allowed myself to push boundaries. Some months were easier than others—there were times when I struggled to find inspiration, doubted my ideas, or simply couldn't pull off what was in my head. Yet, those moments taught me to persevere and trust the process. Each completed session became a small victory, and I began to look forward to seeing how I could challenge myself next.
But my final self-portrait session in November 2024 stands out as my favorite. For this one, I let myself embrace the weird—experimenting with angles, dramatic poses, and concepts that felt outside my usual style. I leaned into the unexpected, exploring ideas that felt risky but exciting.
The result?
A set of images that turned out exactly as I envisioned and have become some of my most well-received work to date. It was a reminder that the best creativity often lies just beyond your comfort zone.
Looking back, this challenge wasn’t just about improving my craft; it was about personal growth. I’ve become more comfortable in front of the camera and discovered new ways to express creativity. I’ve learned that photography, for me, is as much about storytelling and expression as it is about technical skill. This year-long adventure reminded me why I love photography: it's an ongoing journey of exploration and self-discovery.
If you’ve ever considered starting a creative challenge, let this be your sign to go for it. You might create something that surprises you—and maybe even becomes your best work.
More than that, you might learn something unexpected about yourself along the way. Creativity isn’t just about the finished product; it’s about the growth, the risks, and the joy found in the process.
Thank you for reading! <3 JOELLA
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