Here are my SYW answers to this week’s questions from Di

Do you like having your photograph taken?
I used to dislike being photographed, convinced that I wasn’t photogenic. But stepping behind the lens changed everything. I’ve learned how to coax hesitant subjects into engaging with the camera. When you shrink from the moment, the photo reflects that hesitation. But the instant you lean in, and let a little joy shine through, the results can be flattering. These days, I follow my own advice—and I’m pleasantly surprised by what I see.

Did you have a school photograph taken every year?
We had class photos taken every year at the schools I attended but very few are in my photo collection. Either my parents didn’t order them each year, or they have been lost over the years. I have all the school photographs taken of my own kids.

Do you take photographs using a phone or stand alone camera?
My bridge camera—specifically the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS— lives in my handbag, and I use it often. Bridge cameras are a happy medium between point-and-shoots and DSLRs, offering generous zoom and manual controls without the fuss of interchangeable lenses. I occasionally reach for my phone camera too, especially when spontaneity calls.

Are you any good at taking photographs?
I wouldn’t call myself a photography expert but I am an obsessive documenter. I record life as I live it both in words and images. The point of taking photographs is to capture the beauty I observe in nature and to record experiences with friends and family.
My photographs are filed in date order, with subject titles. All my favorites are in PowerPoint Presentations. My children and grandchildren know who to come to when they’re looking for a photograph from any past occasion!
Looking back at old photographs gives me great pleasure.

Gratitude:
Today’s meme resonates with me.

I’m fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful friends and family whose presence brings joy and meaning to my life. I’m deeply grateful for each of them.