Beginning to see the fruits of one's labour

Nearly four weeks ago, the folk who took this photo were in the village and I shared exciting news from a client that "wants" more and more time. So, before I continue: none of the photos in this post are mine. The are Selma and Andre's; here's their blog on their stay - and the job. All these photos and others are for properties in McGregor that are available for short term accommodation rental, and can be booked via me, i.e. my website.

This is a long way to saying two things: they're all in or going to be in the public domain, soon and two, it's an unashamed punt of both the my side hustle and their fantastic work.

As a sort of aside, one of the reasons I love their work is their perspective. They have a real eye for the kinds of things that take an ordinary picture and turn it into a stunning setting. It's not just about good equipment to do the job, it's also about patience and strategy. Somehow, and with apologies to Dr Zeuss they just seem to get it righter than right.

The first picture is sunset from the patio of Bokmakierie Cottage and which page is still a work in progress. As I keep on saying it's in the eye - for little things, too.

This second cottage - Iona - I photographed when I took it on a year ago. One of the platforms on which we list, does occasional promotions of their own and had selected one of my other properties. When I asked if they'd feature it, the reply:

We need better quality photos

I knew exactly what they meant and waited for the opportune moment to have them "properly" done.

This is one of the shots I struggled to get, and really wanted when I did them. As was this one:

The right equipment - not just the camera - but the tripod, software, lenses, etc., make all the difference. Especially wide angles -

I just could never get this perspective with my inadequate equipment.

With patience, other fruits that are bearing

No, I'm not talking about the tomatoes garden. Yet. I'm talking about work, and about which I burbled on, around the same time that Selma and Andre were here. My key client has asked me to get involved in other, higher level work than writing. So, shortly after that, I produced something, we discussed it and then it all went quiet. Until yesterday: our client (you see what I did there?) loved it and has asked us to take it to the next stage. Assuming it's all a go, it's a 4 to 6 month lead time to launch - with my involvement and then some likely ongoing involvement, too.

Oh, and this is on the foundation of six months work for the same client and where the pages for which I've done the (written) content), are outranking what they've had in the 10 prior to my coming on board, and are outranking other brands in the company.

My client is saying I'm a keeper. And some other nice things - and sending more projects my way.

So, in short, the patience is paying off. I'm still biting the bullet, but I'm hoping believing that the universe shifted a little. In a good way.

As I commented three weeks ago, and am reminding myself, it's all about perspective.

Post script: I am trying to participate in @traciyork's November #HiveBloPoMo. I emphasise trying because the last two months have been exactly that - trying. There have been times that I've just been too exhausted and uninspired to post, let alone write something profound. That shouldn't stop you - or anyone. Read about how to participate here.

I've made it to day 3!

Until next time, be well
Fiona
The Sandbag House
McGregor, South Africa

Photo: Selma
Post script

If this post might seem familiar, it's because I'm doing two things:

• re-vamping old recipes. As I do this, I am adding them in a file format that you can download and print. If you download recipes, buy me a coffee. Or better yet, a glass of wine....?
• and "re-capturing" nearly two years' worth of posts.

I blog to the Hive blockchain using a number of decentralised appplications.

• From Wordpress, I use the Exxp Wordpress plugin. If this rocks your socks, click here or on on the image below to sign up.

• Join Hive using this link and then join us in the Silver Bloggers' community.

Original artwork: @artywink

• lastly, graphics are created using partly my own photographs, images available freely available on @hive.blog and Canva.