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narcissism, therapy, or the best photo course I ever took? perhaps all three. Post created Monday, April 12th, 2010 by Maite Benito Agahnia. 5 Comments »

Last year I joined Flickr after a good friend insisted that I do it. “you’ll love it” Every day she insisted. I had no time really, and I kept turning her down, until one day she said ” You get to dress up” huh? what? “I’m in!”

She explained about the 365 self portrait project she was doing, and told me to check out some people’s photos who were doing the project. At that time, I really could not imagine taking a photo of myself every day for the next year. “How fucking narcissistic,” right? I have always been interested in photography, but I was never the one in front of the camera.

On July of 2008 I gave it a go. I started what was going to become one of the most creative and fun years I have ever had, all while doing something I love.

I came across some incredible photographers, some amazingly kind people, made many new friends, and finished a project which I am quite proud of. I was constantly inspired and challenged by the people I followed. I learned about photography techniques, editing, composition and lighting.  I  learned about the human condition, about social networks, but most importantly I learned quite a bit about myself, my insecurities, my feelings, my character, my humor, and my drive in the search for creativity every day.

A year two? hell no,  I don’t think so. If it was a great experience, then “why not?” well, because I like to keep the memories of what was great, and I don’t want to fall into a year where it will become a “chore” which at times I did feel during year 1.

But It sure is rewarding to know that I completed one year, regardless of the times that it was draining, or that I was feeling uncreative, or the tensions that occasionally it created at home from too many hours spent on the computer. It is a great feeling to look back, and be proud, and smile and remember.

What I do miss, is having my camera in my hands every day, (I already dropped my other 365 -not self portraits- that I started in March). What I need is 30 hour days. Where can I get that?

these are some of my favorite selfies, and HERE are the rest.

click here to see it LARGE

Watch me start a year 2 tomorrow, I’m inconsistent like that.

I won’t though.

About the author: Maite Benito Agahnia

Maite currently lives in San Diego, CA with her husband and two children. She is active in the Art Community in Southern California, and volunteers her time to help children and give back to the community.