365/365: That's a Wrap

I did it. I can't believe it. I took a picture every day for 365 days straight. Before I review the experience, let's share the last picture.

Wait, for a reminder, here's the very first picture from this project:

The picture above is the 3rd time we've rung in the new year with Paul & Kara. For the fourth year, we've continued our tradition.

I love that we could get a similar picture to end the project. Earlier in the day I said to Dustin, "How the heck am I going to find the right picture to end this project?!" This was perfect.

Now, my review.

For Christmas of 2012, Dustin bought me a Canon Rebel. I couldn't have been more than thrilled. I already knew how to shoot in manual, but I wanted to embark on a project that would help me learn and practice, so I decided to take on a Project 365. I've heard their tough, and a lot of people don't make it through, but that it's worth it. My goal? Simply to learn more about photography from the technicalities (composition, exposure, lighting) to editing.

Did I reach my goal? Yes, and I will always continue to want to grow and learn every day. But what I didn't expect is everything else. I didn't expect to fall in love with photography the way I have over the past year. Though it may have been obvious, I didn't expect to get such a priceless year book of one of the most amazing years of my life. I didn't expect so many followers and fans. I didn't expect to learn to appreciate the smallest things of my every day the way I have. And I certainly didn't expect to end the year having my own photography business. This project has been such an incredible blessing and experience.

I know this leaves you wondering... will I be doing a 365 in 2014? My answer is no. However, this is not my last 365. I don't know if 2014 will be as eventful as 2013, but I know that the 365 is a huge commitment and takes a lot of time. I need to be sure to spend more time with my family and more time focusing on Erin Joyce Photography. Despite not wanting to commit to a 365, I do plan to take a picture almost every day. I just can't commit to the part of editing and blogging daily. Something I think might be more feasible though, is a Project 52. A picture a week. Though, I may plan on focusing on more photography aspects whether it be composition, lighting, landscape, specific lenses, portraits, etc. I don't have a page set up yet, and hope to connect it to my blog. I'll be sure to do another post here, so you know where to follow me!

I wanted to do a top 10 breakdown of my favorite pictures and do a little paragraph on each, but I have a very sick little baby who needs mommy hugs, a wedding to finish editing, and a new Project 52 blog to make! So, I went through each month and selected one picture. Is it my favorite from that month? Not necessarily... I can't pick one favorite.

Thanks to all of you for following me, encouraging me and staying with me along the way. It's been amazing.