What Do I Want To Be When I Grow Up?

Were you one of the lucky ones who knew from the very start what you wanted to do, or are you still searching?  Over the years I have met many people who just sort of fell into their careers…myself included.  I never set out to go into the line of work I ended up in, it just happened.  For some people it may work out great and they love their jobs, and for others...not so much.  They are left continually asking themselves “what do I want to be when I grow up?”

I was one of the latter.  I was unsatisfied with my career, I felt like there was something missing.  I didn’t really hate my job (well sometimes I did) but I didn’t really enjoy it either.  There was this nagging voice telling me that I was meant for something else, something with purpose, something that brought joy to my life and the lives of others.  I knew I wanted to be a photographer but the fear of the unknown was paralyzing.  So many questions, so many unknowns, no guarantees and very little guidance from the outside world…

Lucky for me I met a wonderful woman from California; who is not only the go to pregnancy/newborn photographer for the celebrities, but is also very generous in sharing her knowledge with aspiring photographers.  I spent a few days with her observing; working alongside her and soaking up every ounce of information I could.  She believed in me, encouraged me and to this day is still available anytime I need her for questions or moral support.  Being able to shadow her was instrumental in giving me the courage to follow my dream of being a photographer.

Job shadowing is great for teens exploring their options for college.  Firsthand experience through job shadowing provides a much better understanding of what you are getting into, and that’s a good thing!  Many programs are available for job shadowing.  Colleges can help with job shadowing programs through the career center and there are tons of internships available during the summer.  See www.internships.com.  Do you have some knowledge that you can share?  Maybe you could help your neighbor's son fix up his car, or have your teen work in your office during the summer.  The possibilities are endless.  I encourage anyone interested in job shadowing or being a sponsor in a job shadowing program to do so.  It really can be life changing.

During May 10-22, I will be sponsoring a Solon high school student in a job shadowing program.  I am so excited to be able to give a little back of what I received myself!  I would like to give her as much exposure to portrait photography as possible, so as an incentive, I am offering deeply discounted photo sessions and prints during this time.  If you are interested in participating, details can be found on the specials/blog/newsletter tab at www.lorimasonphotography.com.