I've been kind of frustrated with photography lately, and in turn frustrated with myself. Watching the Olympics I can't help but notice the hundreds of photographers at every single event. That's a whole lot of competition. More than likely I'll never make it to that level of shooting but I'm sure they once thought the same thing about themselves. In the spirit of the Olympics I suppose any dream is possible it just depends on how much you want it.
To be honest though, I want it pretty bad. I spend hours a day pouring over the websites and blogs of other photographers, I like to think of it as doing my homework. I compare my work to the Sean Flanigans, Vincent Laforets, and Kevin Germans of the world and always fall far short. I tell myself if only I had more gear, better gear, faster lenses, why I could be amazing too. All the while I know they could make amazing images with just a point and shoot camera or a rangefinder and a single prime. I make excuses for my shortcomings when I should be out practicing and making use of what I have. I lack drive, discipline, and creativity. Until I find those I know I'll never be able to be a photographer of the caliber I want.
I think the bulk of my frustration comes from the fact that I've taken a good amount of photos lately but I haven't really been making any photos. I just can't see them lately. That turns into a cycle of because I can't see a photo why take the camera out of the bag then I get rusty and when I do take it out I have no idea what to shoot. And on and on it goes. I honestly think Phoenix is one of the most soul-less cities I've ever been to but I think in a way if I can make it look good I should be able to make anything look good. Bottom line, I need to shoot more. And I need a goal. Let's say London, 2012?
So what does this all have to do with a sunset? Nothing really, just frustrated and thinking out loud.