It's only taken 52 years to learn this lesson
on how getting out of my own way freed my photography business from self sabotage.
Today, I did the unthinkable.
With less than a year of experience as an amateur photographer, I entered a photography competition. Twice.
And now I’m telling you.
This, from the woman who has written and published three books—yet barely told a soul.
Creativity, independence, and entrepreneurship have always been in my blood. But when it comes to success? I’ve often been my own biggest obstacle.
So, what’s changed?
Recently, I came across a simple yet powerful post on Substack. A fellow photographer shared how they print their work—holding it in their hands, making it real.
And a lightbulb went off in my head.
Since seeing that post, I have printed over 100 images of my own work, created large A1 prints and gifted to friends and family, & can’t stop showing anyone who will stop and listen that I have fallen in love with wildlife & birdlife photography.
I’ve even set up my own website on squarespace.
Last week I proudly exclaimed to my Wife and Mother that I am going “all in” with my photography.
Today, I entered the Monoawards photographic competition, with these two images.
and then realised I had actually entered the Monochrome Awards [1] international competition by mistake.
The old me would have gotten embarrassed. Chastised myself for days on end, berating and proving to myself that ‘this is why you can’t succeed’ if you can’t get a simple thing like that right,
Instead. I sat back. Shook my head. Checked the conditions of entry and entered the Australian & Nzland MonoAwards [2] as well.
Maybe I entered the wrong competition. Maybe I won’t win a thing.
But here’s what I do know—I’m done holding myself back. [3]
I’ve spent too long keeping my creative work in the shadows, afraid to take up space. Not anymore.
So, here’s to bold moves, learning as I go, and printing every damn image that makes me feel something.
Let’s see where this takes me.
[1] - MonoChrome Awards is the International black and white photography competition that is held annually & winners are announced January 2026.
{2} - MonoAwards is the B&W Australian/NZLand photography competition - must be Aussie or Nzlander to enter award.
[3] - I’ve done more in the last week for my business to be successful than I have done with other business and creative pursuits in the past 30 odd years!
What can you go all in with today to move your art forward to success?
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT ME
If you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog post and would like to support my work, there are a few ways to encourage me keep going:
✅ Like, comment on a post or newsletter or Restack/Share - it’s free and very much appreciated.
⬆️ Upgrade to a paid subscription (only $8 per month& receive a physical limited edition print)
☕️🍩 Treat me to a donut & coffee
👩🏼💻 Purchase a limited edition print of your choice from my shop.
Thank you so much I appreciate you!