As 2012 starts rolling forward, its always a good time to set your goals for the year. As a photographer, you've got a bunch of different options. I'd like to suggest three different goals you should set for yourself this year as you strive to become a better photographer.

Be Different

Work on breaking the mold. Color a little bit outside of the lines. Try to stretch yourself in 2012 by photographing new subject matter or experimenting with different styles. The outcome isn't really as important as the process. If you've never done landscape photography before, take a weekend and try to shoot some scenics. You never know what you might come up with. Again, it doesn't matter if the shots end up sub-par. The important thing is that you are trying something new - something outside of your comfort zone. You just might find something new that you are good at!

Be Consistent

If you are like most photographers, your shooting schedule varies greatly. You will photograph a bunch of things, then let up for a while. Make a point to even out your shooting schedule a bit. If you have to, set up regular "shooting dates" on your calendar to just go out and create something. Get in the habit of shooting as much as you can. Like most things, the more practice you get - the better!

Be Fearless

Don't let fear of failure slow you down. How many great accomplishments have been derailed by fear of failure? Every time you try something new with your photography, there is a chance it will turn out a disaster. That's just how things go. Without the disasters, however, you will never stretch yourself and grow. The key is to look at those failures as learning opportunities and chances for even more growth. When you look at it that way, you've got nothing to lose!

Start Moving

No matter what goal you set for yourself, the hardest step is the first one. Set a goal and take one step toward it. Don't worry about how long the goals will take to complete. If you are moving in the right direction, you are guaranteed to be in a better place a year from now. Will it be the place you THOUGHT you would be? Maybe not. But if it makes you a better photographer - even by just a little bit - then you are moving in the right direction. Remember, it is about the journey- not the destination. Go for it and never quit.