I have been meaning to make a post about my flat lay photo collages for some time now but other posts just kept taking precedence. I am calling these grouped objects photos by the hashtag #SHnaturestudy on my Instagram account and have also started a Pinterest board S H nature study.

The reason I started taking these photos came from my need to reconnect with the world around me and give myself a personal design challenge of creating a new photo each week--for a year. I am always too absorbed in my work and I forget to take time to enjoy the world around me. Life didn't used to be that way for me so this is my wake up call to regain a little of what I used to enjoy so much--nature and beautiful things, brush up on photography skills and just do something completely different.

So, here are the parameters I set for myself when setting up these shots. I want to use objects that are natural in origin. Obviously plants and flowers are a good choice but will be hard to come by during winter in the midwest. So, I am allowing myself to add other objects to the grouping to help fill it out and support the weeks' color mood. As you will see, I am also creating a color story each week as well. I have no idea if this is all sustainable but want to complete my year challenge and push myself creatively. 

Here are the first 11 photos out of 52 weeks to get you up to speed. I will plan to recap at the end of each month with a post of the newest photos so you can follow along during the year. 

I hoped you enjoyed the images. I sure am having fun taking them each week. Remember to take time to marvel at the little things and connect with the world around you. We all need to "stop and smell the roses" now and then.