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2011A Package From Lorena
The most delightful package arrived yesterday from Spain, and it was from long time Flickr friend Lorena Arance. Story time! Several years ago when I was just learning about photography (though we’re never done learning) as more than just a hobby, I realized Flickr wasn’t just a place to upload my stuff, but a great way to meet other photographers- but I was afraid to add the “untouchables”. You know, the photographers that have 100+ comments (or none at all, but 400+ favorites). I was scared because I didn’t want to become lost in a see of comments or favorites- I wanted to connect. (And if I’m honest, I didn’t want them to reject my photography, and by association, me.) But then I decided, you don’t meet people if you don’t try, and went for it. That’s how I met Lorena. She’s been on heavily visited blogs like Decor8, and her work is vivid, still, and enchanting. It’s all on film, and it’s all every day life. (My favorite, of course!) She’s truly been an inspiration and I hope we can meet one day.
Oh, and you won’t believe where Lorena is right now. Well, yesterday she was at Bunratty Castle Folk Park. That’s right, she booked a vacation to Ireland (Galway, Clare, Mayo, etc) and included several places Tom and I visited after seeing them on this here blog. She’s standing where I stood a few months ago, perhaps even shooting the same things. Seeing the same people. Eating in the same cafes. How cool is that? (Needless to say, I am eagerly anticipating her Ireland film series.)
The Beautiful Work of Lorena Arance
Portfolio • Blog (Spanish) • New Flickr
The lesson here? Fear is stupid. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but don’t let fear get in the way of your happiness. I’ve spent a lot of my life afraid. Afraid of change, rejection, people, life in general. But having the strength to do it anyway (partake in a video blog project publicly on YouTube, write a public blog, move to Canada) has brought me more joy than I can begin to convey. Do it. =)
whatKatydidnext
What a lovely package !! Lucky you, I would love to receive something like that. I totally agree with lorena’s thoughts, you’re a so inspiring person.
lorena
Sara, thank you so much for your generous words about me and my work.
long, when I’m overwhelmed, I go to your gallery because your colors so vibrant and your life as healthy, soothed my soul.
I thought a lot about you. Walking along the cliffs and was telling Oscar: Look, from here sara took this picture …
ohh, and here in this room , Sara photographed the desk of the doctor.
has been an exciting journey,
xx
Kim
Thanks Sara
Abby used to live in Portland but she recently moved to Texas. SNIFF! But, you’re right – there are a lot of amazing photogs in this city, I really need to get off my duff and go make some friends! …Maybe when it stops raining. 
Sarah
You’re so lucky to get real mail! I eagerly check my box every day and rarely have more than bills!
Your advice is good. Fear is so dumb. On Pinterest l’ve been repinning many “You can do it!” pics because I want to get more serious about photography!
I love your site and your art.
<3
Tiziana
Very beautiful photos!I like your blog!
Sara
Your blog is delightful as well! I’m happy to see you post in English as well, and I’ve added you to my reader. (I would have even if you didn’t post in English!)
Cheers,
Sara
Jacqueline
I love Lorena’s work. And I loved that you mentioned the “untouchables” — I feel exactly the same way about flickr. I’m much better than I used to be, but I’m still super intimidated by so many photogs there that I keep waiting to “get better” before I approach them. You know?
Sara
I know exactly what you mean! And for what it’s worth I think your photos are fantastic!
Miles Wolstenholme
A lovely story and great photos – lucky you
As for Flickr, I’m totally addicted. I’ve made many good friends around the world and developed a sizeable “fan base” – it really is worth “taking the plunge”.
Sara
I’m pretty sure I’ve been addicted to Flickr since day one! And I agree with you. Half of the people I’d consider good friends today I met through Flickr.
annawithlove
so inspiring – thank you for sharing! I always hold back a little but getting better day by day
x
Sara
Baby steps! (That goes for me too!)
Kim
Awwww, that is such a sweet package! And I absolutely adore Lorena’s body of work, too – she bought a print from me once and I couldn’t have been more honored.
I can totally relate to that fear of rejection, too. I’m actually getting ready to go to San Francisco next week for a few days and am planning to meet up with some of those Bay Area “untouchables”
I’m super stoked, but also a little nervous. WHAT IF I SNORT? I’m actually surprised Jade and I haven’t met up for a little gathering but, again – I’m so dorky and awkward it hurts!
Also, for the record, the grass in Portland is pretty darn green.
Sara
You rock socks, don’t be worried at all. You are super talented and I’m sure you’re super charming in person too. I’m also surprised! There are a lot of cool Portland photogs- I’m surprised you guys haven’t arranged a get together! I think Abby Powell is in PDX too, right? I know there’s quite a few!
(Also, good luck in San Fran!)
Jade
Haha! When I first was getting into photography, Flickr was a big inspiration for me too and I was afraid to reach out to those that I admired fearing they would think my art was silly. But you are so right: you just have to go for it!!
Such a lovely package and I’m eager to go check out more of her work.
It’s funny you mention moving to Canada, because Cory and I have been thinking of doing just that. The job market here is horrible and I think we could both use a change. Canada has always seemed like such a lovely place and one where we would fit in…
Sara
Oh my gosh, really?! And here I am drooling over all you folks in Portland. I guess the grass is always greener! (Though in Portland it probably actually IS greener grass, haha.) Do you think you’d move to the Toronto area? If you guys ever come visit, let me know! We’d love to meet up!