It's holiday time again. For many of us it's time to take a breather after a difficult year. An economic slowdown, followed by a recession, terrorist attacks, and a war. It's been a helluva of year.

Here at Vivid Light Photography we're glad that we've made it through the year. In addition to everything mentioned above it's been a tough year for online magazines. Many of the larger magazines closed their doors in 2001 due to a much publicized collapse in Internet advertising. We're happy that after everything that's happened we're one of the publications still standing.

But enough rehashing bad news. As we look around we have a lot to be thankful for. We've weathered the last year intact. The economists are beginning to grumble that we've hit bottom on the economy. That means we're heading back up folks. So we can begin to think about putting all of the bad money news of the last year behind us. 

And the holidays are a great time for photography! Take advantage of the time together with family and friends to create some candid portraits and memories. This is the time of year when we spend time with folks we don't see often enough. In some cases this may be the only time of the year we see them. Approach it with a smile and you may even get a grin for that photo of your crabby old uncle!

In many parts of the world it's also a good time to get out and do some winter landscape shooting. Most of us have some time off around the holidays so why not use it as an excuse to get out of the house and do a little hiking in the woods with your camera. If you're so inclined take your kids along. Show them what those mountains really look like instead of what they look like on their X-box. 

For those of you on the south side of the equator stroll out in your shorts, get in some warm weather shooting and cap the day with a rum drink since you don't have to go to work the next day!

Are you more of a city dweller? During the holidays head downtown. Most cities are bathed in a rainbow of holiday lights and decorations - all of which make great photo subjects - from the wide angle of that huge Christmas tree to the close-up of an antique porcelain tree ornament. Don't worry about taking serious photos. Treat the holidays as your "fun pass" to shoot anything makes you smile.

If you can, take some time and get lost in your photography. If you can't take the time then make the time. It can do wonders for your outlook and you'll greet the new year with a smile.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all of our readers,
Jim McGee
Managing Editor 

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