June 2012

Dear photographer,

To say that you have learned and grown tremendously over the past few years is definitely an understatement. One of the best things about this journey is not that you have learned so much about photography, but rather about yourself. I know that your love for photography began the instance you became a mother. It did not take long for you to realize how fast time flies, which ultimately sparked your love for capturing every moment of motherhood. Needless to say, I could not be happier that it happened because now I understand, and appreciate, how my compulsive desires to capture every mile-stone, movement, and facial expression on my child’s face was actually necessary.

I say this because I had absolutely no idea what I was doing, or where it would all lead. All I knew was that I thoroughly enjoyed taking pictures, as well as learning about photography. Being a Christian, I always believed God had a plan for me but I never imagined that what started as a hobby was His plan the entire time. Looking back I am confident that it did not happen sooner for a reason, His reason… His purpose. I still remember the whirlwind of emotions you felt each time you shot the camera, especially if it led you to learn something new. This journey has resulted in feelings of extreme joy; a fulfillment that has greatly enriched my life.

So what can I say other than: I love taking photographs, I love the way the camera feels in my hands, I love capturing the never-ending beauty that surrounds me daily, but not as much as I love knowing that Our Father single-handedly created such an awestruck wonder for us to enjoy.You see, as I captured magical moments of my daughter and the beauty all around us, I inevitably realized that it was God’s own divine hand instilling this new-found passion on my heart. Honestly, if not for His creativity I would have nothing to capture… His fingerprint is on everything that has transpired and led me here. I believe that God has created the natural world in such a way that it inspires the pursuer to see His vision and praise Him for it. God’s creation universally declares His glory and reveals His divine power.

It is this understanding that reaffirms the joy I take in knowing that being a photographer is no longer about just taking pictures as a hobby but rather as a gift entrusted to me by God himself. He has opened my eyes and confirmed that this is an opportunity to use my God-given talent to glorify Him and to serve others {1 Peter 4:10}, especially seeing as how we are all called to be good stewards with our gifts. It is like the late Leo Buscaglia once said, “Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”

It never ceases to amaze me how God works His plans into your life because I never envisioned that a small craving for capturing His beauty would become a full-blown appetite. My hope and prayer for you now is that you stay hungry as you continue to learn and grow, but more than anything always remain humble. I also ask that no matter where God steers your journey, that you always do things to bring glory to Him while taking every opportunity to serve others. If nothing else, future-self, never doubt our God’s plan(s) for you and always, always “commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” {Proverbs 16:3} And if you need more confirmation, always remember that “the point of your life is to point to Him. Whatever you are doing, God wants to be glorified, because this whole thing is His.” – Francis Chan. Future-self, please do not be afraid to fail because oftentimes it is an absolute must in order for you to succeed but never, ever forget that “everything comes from Him and exists by His power and is intended for His glory. All glory to Him forever! Amen.” {Romans 11:36}.

About the photographer:

Hello! I am Zaida Lucia, the “mama” behind the camera. I am a Christ follower, wife and a mother. I am passionate about spending time in God’s word and seeking Him daily while striving to live a life that is pleasing to Him. I have been married to my husband, Emilio, for five years. God entrusted us with a daughter, a vivacious four year old named Zailynn, who has essentially been the muse behind my photography. I am so grateful to my husband for always believing in me, supporting me and for being my biggest fan… he is amazing. I enjoy spicy food because you just gotta have the salsa. Some of my other interests include: laughing, adventures, running, being outdoors (the beach), dancing, reading and most importantly… naps.

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