Are we there yet?

Above: Image, Gina Milicia

Always believe in the destination but enjoy the journey.

One of the reasons I love to walk or ride my bike is because it forces me to experience the journey rather than focus on getting to the destination.

When I’m in my car, life is comfortable. I’m warm, protected from the elements and can safely focus on “are we there yet?”. I’m all about getting to the destination as quickly as possible.

The same journey on foot or on my bike is completely different. I notice more, I feel more, I remember more, I experience more.

As artists we are constantly striving for the next destination, our focus on getting “there” as quickly as possible but in doing so we miss many of the valuable lessons learnt on the slow road.

When I first started out as a photographer I just wanted to hurry up and get “there” already.
When I was a photography student I couldn’t wait to work as a photographer’s assistant.
When I was an assistant I couldn’t wait to be a photographer.
When I became a photographer I couldn’t wait to get my first image published.
When I got my first image published I couldn’t wait to get my first cover.

I was living “there” in my head. I dreamed about being “there” and in doing so I missed out on enjoying the best place and only place you can ever be – “here” and “now”.

When you spend all your energy focused on a future destination to achieve happiness you rob yourself of enjoying the present moment. Striving for a goal and having a dream is a good thing, you should always believe in the destination but don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

Look around, slow down, feel the breeze on your face and enjoy the ride.

How to direct and pose like a pro

About Gina

About Gina

Gina Milicia is one of the most widely known and respected photographers in Australia. She is the master of capturing that ‘magical moment’... READ MORE

instagram Instagram