365 Day Challenge: Hipstamatic

We are now a full month into 2024 and I decided to try a 365 photo challenge. It's been about 7 years since I tried this last but this time I decided I wanted to do this only using my Hipstamatic photos on a separate Instagram account.

Hipstamatic is an iOS app that allows you to use a combination of different lenses, film, and flashes to create unique filters on your photos. The filters are sold as "paks" which usually contain a lens, a film, and sometimes a flash that compliment each other to give the photo a certain aesthetic. However, you can build combinations by switching out any of the individual components to create a different look. You can also shake your phone and the app will randomize the three components for you. This is the primary way I use the app. I will find a subject and shake my phone and take about 2 to 3 shots and wait to see what was captured. The results always vary. Sometimes the filter completely compliments the subject while other times it can be a frustrating mess. It really adds a new dynamic to the process of iPhone photography.

Usually when someone does a 365 challenge, the idea is to actually go out and take new photos each day. I'll admit that was my intention starting out but with my work schedule and having kids, that is not always so easy. So I decided as long as I could post each day, that would count for something. I had a few goals going into this and one of them was to actually get in the habit of posting more. Even if the posts would hardly be seen. But sometimes life gets in the way of that too and I must admit I had to make multiple posts sometimes to make up for days I missed. I'm hoping as the months go on I will find my routine in posting and being able to get more photos in the day by finding something interesting in my everyday life. I look forward to seeing my progress as the year rolls on and hope to see some growth. You can follow along on Instagram @shaketomakerandom.

Hello and Welcome

I am taking my first shot at this website/blog thing. A little late in the game, I know.

I am hoping to use this as an exercise to get myself to write more. I’ll mostly use to talk about things I have seen, things I have eaten, and places I have been. I also hope to share some photos as well.

I don’t anticipate many people will see this, at least not right away. But if you are here I hope you enjoy your time here.