Wow, what a year it has been! Mainly another year of firsts for me, this time venturing out into the blogosphere, joining social media properly and therefore opening myself up to being judged, analysed and sometimes criticised. Initially it was scary and there have been some trolls but overall I’ve received so much positive and encouraging feedback that I’m excited to continue my social media journey.

A big part of that is Instagram for me. At the beginning I was like an excited puppy playing with a new squeaky toy but after exploring all the filters, frames and blur options I’m slowly moving towards a more considerate approach. I’m starting to think more about composition and colours and want my grid to be more cohesive and harmonious. Still telling a story and documenting special moments but always with the intention of showing beauty in the everyday and (hopefully) bringing inspiration to my followers.

I’ve blogged about the phenomenon before when I introduced Ida Laerke, a favourite Instagrammer of mine. It’s a powerful tool as it makes you feel so close to somebody who you’ve never met and probably never will but yet you know what their newborn looks like, what colour their front door is painted and that their partner liked his stripy socks for Christmas. It’s strange and you could call it voyeurism but I ask myself what’s the difference to buying gossip magazines? Only this time you’re peeking into somebody’s life who isn’t famous.

So, whether you love it or hate it here is my selection of special moments from 2013 and already I can’t wait to compose next year’s round up.

I’m wondering… Are you on Instagram? Who do you think is worth following and why?

Here’s to an exciting 2014!

Photography | Annie Kruse (mostly iPhone and VSCOcam)