As a photographer and creative, I’ve learned an invaluable lesson over the years: the importance of trying, even if it means facing the possibility of failure. We often discover the most remarkable outcomes in the pursuit, the effort, and the willingness to step into the unknown. Let me share a recent experience that highlights this very lesson.

On May 11th, while visiting my daughter in Columbus, Georgia, I decided to try photographing the Northern Lights. I missed the opportunity the night before back home in Roswell, GA, because I gave up too soon. I went outside, looked up, didn’t see anything right away, and didn’t even bother getting my camera out.

The next day, I saw everyone else’s stunning photos of the Northern Lights online. Inspired and determined, I decided I wouldn’t miss another chance. So, I set out with my camera the following night, ready to capture the elusive lights.

Unfortunately, the Northern Lights weren’t visible that night either. Despite my best efforts, I didn’t get the shots I hoped for. But here’s the twist: although I failed to capture the Northern Lights, I ended up with some incredible photos that my Facebook friends genuinely enjoyed. The night sky, the serene landscape, and the tranquil atmosphere created a series of images that resonated with my audience unexpectedly.

The Moral of the Story

The key takeaway from this experience is simple yet profound: without trying, there’s no possibility of success. Had I not gone out that night, I would have missed the opportunity to create something beautiful. Failure is not the end; it’s a part of the journey. Not getting what we want sometimes opens the door to new perspectives and unexpected successes.

As photographers and creatives, we must embrace the process of trial and error. We grow, learn, and often discover hidden gems through our willingness to take risks and face potential failure. Every attempt, whether successful or not, adds to our experience and enhances our craft.

So, the next time you’re hesitant to try something new for fear of failure, remember that the act of trying itself is a victory. You may not always get what you envisioned, but you might have something even more remarkable. Keep pushing your boundaries, experimenting, and, most importantly, trying. The journey is as important as the destination; sometimes, failure leads us to our most stunning successes.

Embrace the adventure, fellow storytellers, and let your creativity soar, knowing that every effort is a step toward greatness.

Happy shooting!