Congratz on your anniversary and thanks for this great contest.
I have been on Steemit for almost 6 months now. There have been highs and lows. Everyone gets demotivated at some point, but with a little luck there is also a spark somewhere that makes you want to stay and try again.
When I started on Steemit I really had the idea to write how-to's, tutorials, manuals, that kind of things. Sharing knowledge is a great thing. But after a while I got drawn into the world of macrophotography. The images posted by others were so fascinating, it made me remove the dust from my camera and start taking pictures again. This is something I had not done for a long time.
It turned out my camera had more options to take macrophotos than I knew. Also while browsing older images, I found out I had already shown some interest in macrophotography years ago. I had completely forgotten about that.
As a programmer I spend a lot of time indoors on the computer, but since my interest in macrophotography I spend more and more time outdoors, trying to find objects in nature to take pictures of. I am slowly getting the hang of it. This is also due to the many photography projects on Steemit. Looking at what other people do is inspiring, talking to people about their images is a great way to learn new things. But also, the projects want quality pictures, so they push you, motivate you, to try your utmost.
So yes, I can honestly say Steemit changed my life, and I am loving it <3
Will I ever be a professional photographer? I don't know but I sure am happy with this renewed hobby.
Wonderful to meet you!
Even if you never become a professional, I feel in your heart you have a passion and that means more and gives more than any money ever could :)
Thanks for the entry and good luck!