CityLife Church Melbourne Australia

I'm enjoying the current series on being "Creative." The topic resonates with me and I thought to share my personal experience with you. I have a rather uncommon hobby which is toy photography.

It started out a few years ago when I was reintroduced to the joys of toy collecting by a friend who was into vintage Star Wars figures. At that time, I dabbled on and off with photography as well and the marriage of the 2 elements was a perfect match for me.

I started sharing my photos online on Instagram and soon found a community of shared hobbyists online. However, I realised gradually that there is so much negativity out in the social media world and it dawned on me that I could use my artwork to inject positive imagery. Toys and pop culture tend to be intertwined, and it became a wonderful way to reach out and connect with others.

A couple of years ago, a few friends (from around the world) and myself did a small book project called "With Toys In Mind'' where we used toy photography and our writing to shed light on mental health awareness. The proceeds were a humble £1000 and it all went to Samaritans Org, a lifeline service in the UK.

During these crazy 2 years of the pandemic, the hobby had kept me going as a creative outlet - I also started making miniature props and dioramas for my photography! However, I felt prompted to do more from within the confines of our four walls. Hence, I did a call out on social media in 2020, a "Random Act of Postcard Kindness." For those who were keen, they can select any of my artwork, nominate a recipient, and I would mail out a postcard with the image on their behalf anywhere worldwide with an encouraging message, for free. It was such a touching privilege to mail out the 30 odd cards to random strangers around the world.

Looking back at the 4 years of being in this hobby, I feel strongly that God has been so good in gently prompting me in pursuing this rather unusual pastime. I truly feel this is the "Mars Hill" He has placed me for this season in life, where I can connect to people that I otherwise wouldn't be able to reach. I can't say that I'd "converted" anyone but it delights me that imagery could be used as a way to uplift and encourage others.

Below are some examples of images I had done. My other geeky photos can be found here instagram.com/spideygoeshygge

Thank you for allowing me the time to share my joy. God bless. :)

Posted in August 2021