How much is too much?

If you know me, then you know I have taken to photography. I’ve always loved things with buttons, from commandeering old cell phones and TV remotes to car keys and, on one occasion, a shock collar remote (sorry, Cody).

On a trip to Disney World, I wasn’t too keen on the idea of having my photo taken with the characters. I liked to admire them from a distance, and stubborn, pushy little me made my parents stand with them so I could take the picture.

Now, I’ve upgraded from the disposable and point-and-shoot cameras I used to wield. I’ve had the pleasure of taking family photos at events, getting graduation party photos for a friend’s family, taken shots of sights across the ocean.

I’ve noticed that getting into a hobby such as this has led to one of two things happening: becoming the designated family photographer OR being handed a camera if I didn’t bring mine. And let me tell you, I love it.

I love being able to capture memories, moments that people can enjoy forever. Funny faces, sweet moments, capturing joy and laughter and memorializing them for years to come.

But I have a problem when it comes to taking pictures: I take so. Many. Photos. At a two-hour long first birthday party, I ended up with over 800 photos. Whoops.

But I think anyone that gets into photography knows, or will come to learn, that for every 30, 50, etc. photos you take, you’ll likely end up with a handful of really, really good shots. Sure, the outtakes can be some of the best too, but some just soar above the rest.

With film cameras, one would have to be more mindful of their shots, but with digital, we just snap away and hit “delete” later. I may come to regret it when it comes time to edit, but for now, I’ll keep capturing all that I can.