Criticism and Comparison

There is a reason I don't like to take pictures for others. Criticism. I cringe at the thought of someone commenting on my pictures, and I think it's because so much of my heart is in them. I have not taken pictures for money, or fame, but for the love of photography...for capturing a moment in time and being able to reflect on it for years to come. So for me to enter a photograph in a contest is a huge thing for me because it opened it up for criticism. Never in my wildest thoughts did I think I would be a finalist....which then brings on the comparison.

Looking at the other beautiful photographs that are finalists, I wonder how in the world mine was chosen. And when I clicked on each of their names....they have their own photography business....and it's no wonder...their photographs are beautiful! It's so hard not to compare. But that's not what God has called me to do. He gave me a passion and it is not my place to judge who is better. We are all unique, and each photograph shows that. Each one, I think, brings out the personality of the artist, and I love it.

So instead of cringing at criticism and comparing my talent with others, I shall rejoice in God's blessing and gifting within each of us. And when I feel that self-doubt rising up, I will stand tall in God and His love for me.