How AI-Generated Images Can Enhance Photography and Art
Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated images are becoming increasingly popular, especially in the fields of advertising and design. They offer a cost-effective, efficient way to create high-quality visuals without the need for traditional photography. However, some photographers and artists view AI-generated images as a threat to their profession, with concerns around originality and the possibility of stealing artwork from human artists.
So, where do AI-generated images come from? Essentially, AI algorithms are fed with a massive amount of data to learn patterns and create new images. This data can come from a variety of sources, including stock photo websites and even social media platforms. By analyzing these images, the AI algorithms can generate new ones that match the style and composition of the original images. This allows for a wide range of possibilities for creating new and unique images.
However, some people have raised concerns that AI-generated images can be used to steal artwork from other human artists. This idea is based on the premise that the AI algorithms learn from existing images, so there is a risk that they could replicate someone else's work without their consent. This raises questions about copyright infringement and intellectual property rights.
The truth is that AI-generated images do not necessarily steal artwork from other artists. While it is true that AI algorithms learn from existing images, they are not capable of replicating them exactly. AI-generated images are still unique in their own way and are created by a machine rather than a human artist. Additionally, most AI-generated images are created for commercial purposes, so there is little incentive for companies to try and pass them off as original artwork.
The use of AI-generated images as a starting point for human-created artwork is a growing trend in the art and design industry. With the ability to generate thousands of images quickly and efficiently, AI algorithms can provide a wealth of inspiration for photographers and designers looking to create something new and unique.
One way that photographers can use AI-generated images is by incorporating them into their own work. For example, a photographer may use an AI-generated landscape image as the backdrop for a portrait shoot, adding depth and interest to the final product. This approach can also help photographers to experiment with new styles and techniques, allowing them to push the boundaries of their own work and explore new avenues of creativity.
Another way that AI-generated images can be used to enhance human creativity is by providing a source of inspiration for artists and designers. By analyzing thousands of images and identifying patterns and styles, AI algorithms can provide a wealth of creative inspiration for human artists. This can be especially useful for artists who may be experiencing a creative block, as the AI-generated images can help to spark new ideas and perspectives.
In addition, AI-generated images can also be used to create entirely new forms of art. For example, artists can use AI algorithms to generate abstract patterns and designs that they can then incorporate into their own work. This approach can result in new and unique artwork that would not have been possible without the use of AI-generated images.
Overall, the use of AI-generated images in conjunction with human-created artwork has the potential to enhance human creativity rather than detract from it. By providing a source of inspiration and new possibilities for experimentation, AI-generated images can help photographers and artists to push the boundaries of their own work and create something truly unique. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more and more examples of AI and human collaboration in the art and design industry.
AI-generated images are a valuable tool for photographers and designers to create high-quality visuals quickly and cost-effectively. While concerns around originality and theft of artwork exist, it is important to remember that AI-generated images are not a direct replication of human artwork. Instead, they offer new possibilities for creativity and can be used in conjunction with human art to create something entirely unique. By embracing this new technology, photographers and artists can continue to push the boundaries of their work and explore new avenues of creativity.
If you would like to learn more about AI-generated artwork and how some photographers are thinking and acting upon it may I suggest reading...
Down the AI rabbit hole & It's not photography by Andy Adams
Breaking Free: Why Asking 'Why?' is Essential for Personal Growth and Change
As a photographer, I often reflect on how we are conditioned to suppress our curiosity and accept the status quo. This conditioning starts from a young age, where we are discouraged from asking "why" and labeled as a burden or nag if we persist. Truth be told, most adults don't have the patience for children, and they make it clear to them, most of the time their own children, that they are in the way, and talking too much. This lesson is learned young and is never easy to shake off.
As we grow older, we are told that certain things are just the way they are, and questioning them can lead to unpleasant consequences. As a teenager, we might question why things are the way they are. For example, why do teenagers have to wake up so early to go to school? Why is our life filled with activities but not rest? Why don't adults have as many activities as teenagers? Why are we being forced to figure out our career, school, marriage, relationships, and religion, all at a young age, with little experience and without even knowing who we are yet? When we ask, we're told that's just how it's always been done.
It's disheartening to see people give up on asking "why" as they become adults. We might learn not to ask "why" because the other person could become dangerous or erratic. When we ask our partner why they expect us to remind them to do the dishes, they might accuse us of being things we never were. When we question our boss why we have to work from an office for a job we can do better from home, we might be accused of playing lazy. And when we question why priests and religious leaders are still allowed to be alone around children, we're told to just have faith.
But deep down, we want to ask "why." We wonder why we can't do more for a better environment or cut interest from student debt. We question why we have to settle down, have kids, and own a house. And we wonder why we have to balance-beam walk across our lives, careful and patient.
As a photographer, I believe in using my art to challenge these societal norms and inspire people to ask "why" more often. Through my lens, I hope to capture moments that challenge the status quo and inspire others to take action. Whether it's through capturing the beauty of a person who has never received positive support or affirmation in their life or challenging the norm of women being told to cover up by insecure men, I believe that photography can be a powerful tool for sparking change.
I hope that by capturing these moments and sharing them with others, I can inspire more people to ask "why" and challenge the status quo. Because only through questioning and challenging the status quo can we create a better world for ourselves and future generations. It's time to break free from the conditioning that tells us to accept things as they are and start asking "why" more often.
Embracing Brokenness: Finding Strength in Kintsugi and the Wisdom of Rocky
Life can be tough. It can knock you down and keep you there if you let it. But it's not about how hard you get hit, it's about how you get back up and keep moving forward. This is a lesson I learned firsthand during my divorce.
It was a dark time in my life, and I struggled to find hope and meaning in the midst of the pain and chaos. But then I discovered Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer and gold, emphasizing the beauty of the broken and imperfect.
The idea of embracing my brokenness and seeing it as a source of beauty and strength gave me hope and a sense of purpose. I began to see my scars as something to be proud of, as they were a testament to my resilience and ability to keep going even when things were tough.
I never really talked about this small glimmer of hope I found during that dark time, so you can imagine my surprise and delight when I received an invitation to do a photoshoot that emphasized Kintsugi. It was as if the universe was reminding me to keep going and to not be ashamed of my damaged and broken parts.
During the photoshoot, I thought about the quote from Rocky that says, "Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done! Now if you know what you're worth then go out and get what you're worth. But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain't you! You're better than that!"
Those words resonated with me deeply. Life may be tough, but I am tougher. I am not defined by my scars or my brokenness, but by my ability to keep going and to keep moving forward. And so are you.
Remember that the next time life knocks you down. Embrace your brokenness and see it as a source of strength and beauty. Keep moving forward and don't be afraid to take the hits, because that's how winning is done.
Living Life on Your Own Terms: The Challenges and Rewards of Pursuing Your Passion
The world we live in is constantly changing, and not necessarily in ways that benefit the human race. Survival has become a challenge, and the odds seem to be stacked against the vast majority of us. We work hard to make a living and support ourselves, but the compensation we receive often doesn't reflect the effort we put in. Companies demand year-over-year growth to their profits, yet the employees who help them achieve those increases are often not compensated accordingly. We're stuck in a cycle where the cost of living continues to rise, but our salaries remain stagnant.
It's a harsh reality, but one that many of us face. And yet, there are still those who choose to take control of their lives and pursue their passions. They're the ones who switch careers multiple times throughout their lives, who take risks and try to live life on their own terms. I'm one of those people.
I started my career as an EMT, then moved into Occupational Health and Safety. After that, I transitioned into Sales and Account Management before finally settling on freelance photography as my full-time profession. It's a decision I don't regret, but it hasn't been an easy path.
There are many benefits to being a full-time freelance photographer. I make my own schedule, choose who I want to work with, and don't have to ask anyone permission to take time off or go on vacation. But there are also downsides. Finding clients can be difficult, cash flow isn't always guaranteed, and there's a constant feeling that I should always be working.
One of the biggest challenges of being self-employed is the pressure to constantly make ends meet. Bills don't stop just because you have a slow month, and the companies you owe money to have to make those year-over-year profits, right? It's a reality that many entrepreneurs face, but it's not often talked about.
Starting a business is not for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, and anxiety-filled hours. But for those who choose this path, the reward is the ability to live life on their own terms. They're able to pursue their passions and make a living doing something they love.
Is it worth it? That's a question only each individual can answer for themselves. For me, I want to say yes, but I am still new at all this and my final answer isn't in yet. I'm willing to take the risks and face the challenges that come with being self-employed because the alternative is to live a life that feels unfulfilling. I want to make a difference in the world, to leave a positive impact, and pursuing my passion as a freelance photographer allows me to do that.
The world may not be made for the human race to live, but that doesn't mean we can't make the most of it. We may face challenges, but with hard work and perseverance, we can create the life we want to live. We can pursue our passions and make a difference in the world. It's not easy, but it's worth it.
Why You Can't Please Everyone: Lessons from a Photoshoot
Hey there, fellow creatives! Adam Scott here, and today I wanted to share with you a recent experience I had during a photoshoot for a t-shirt company. I was hired to photograph their t-shirts and we went over all the details, talked about models, and reviewed all the requirements. Everything was set, and I was ready to go.
The day of the photoshoot was fabulous. The models were great, the lighting was perfect, and honestly, the photos came out amazing. I was confident that the client would be thrilled with the results.
But, as they say, sometimes things don't go as planned. The client didn't like the photos and gave me a 1-star review on my delivery. At first, I have to admit, it really bugged me. I put so much effort into the shoot and felt like I had done everything right. So why didn't they like the photos?
But after some thought, I realized that you can't please everyone. Just because someone doesn't like your work doesn't mean your work is bad. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as creatives, we have to accept that not everyone will love our work.
What's important is that we do our best and at the end of the day, we are proud of our own work. We shouldn't let negative feedback bring us down or make us doubt ourselves. Instead, we should use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Of course, that doesn't mean we should ignore feedback altogether. It's important to listen to constructive criticism and use it to improve our skills and work. But at the same time, we shouldn't let it affect our confidence or stop us from creating.
So, my fellow creatives, let's remember to always do our best and be proud of our own work. Let's embrace feedback, both positive and negative, and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. And let's keep creating, because at the end of the day, that's what we love to do.
Cordelia
Yesterday, without warning or any signs, my beautiful dog Cordelia suffered a seizure. It happened sometime after 10am, and I noticed it when I got up to let her outside for the second time that morning. She had lost all balance, couldn't really walk, and when I did get her outside she started having convulsions and threw up. I didn't know what to do, which is weird because I have been trained in emergency management in past jobs and positions. Usually, I am the one calm during a crisis, but not on this day.
Cordelia came into my life almost 10 years ago. By every fact I had no right owning a dog at the time. I was an absolute wreck of a human being. I was going through a terrible divorce, I had almost no money to my name, and I was emotionally all over the place. But I was living in a house that was 1800 square feet all by myself and I was very lonely.
One morning I saw a Craigslist ad with a few pictures of Cordelia. The ad read that she was free to the 1st male she liked. Given that, at the time I couldn't afford adoption fees a free dog sounded great. So I got in my car and started to drive, but with each passing mile this little voice in my head started telling me what a terrible idea this was. At one point I even pulled over to the side of the road, and debated turning around, but I didn't.
When I got there her current owners opened the door of their home and out trotted Cordelia. She ran down the steps and I still remember her running down the dirt driveway to meet me. Her current owners told me how two other males had come before myself, and Cordelia wanted nothing to do with them, but she clearly liked me so she was mine. They never really explained why they were getting rid of her, other then to say that they didn't have the time to care for her because of their children.
So I coaxed Cordelia into my car and we drove home. That was the day she became mine.
I didn't know it at the time, but I had no idea the impact Cordelia would have on my life. Before Cordelia I was in a pretty dark place. I wasn't eating, and pretty much slept all day. Over the course of a few weeks I had lost 20lbs just due to not eating anything. But now I had this little fur ball to take care of. In the mornings she would jump on me to wake me up and tell me it was time to go outside. She accompanied me to Geek and Gamer Fitness, my gym, and would lay comfortably in one corner or another while I taught group classes. She was mine and she was rarely far away from me.
Eventually my time in WA came to a close and Cordelia and I packed up all our things and moved to sunny southern CA, but when we got there things did not feel right, so when the opportunity to go on a month long road trip popped up she and I packed a bag, jumped into the car and headed out to explore. We hit up Mammoth, Bear Mountain, The Grand Tetons, Yosemite, Moab, and even Vegas. We hiked up mountains, splashed through rivers, and slept out under the stars with a fire going. It was absolutely perfect.
Eventually, however, we had to return back to the real world. I was out of money, again, and so I needed to get back and earn some money so the two of us could eat. I took some weird jobs here and there, but no matter what I did, every night when I came home from work she would be there to greet me with her big tail wagging.
After awhile one of those jobs asked me to move to FL, and I took the opportunity. Cordelia and I packed up what I had, which wasn't much at the time. 9 boxes of books, 2 trash bags of clothes, a mattress, and a couple nick knacks and assorted keep sakes. It wasn't anything anyone would be impressed with, but we hit the road and drove cross country till we reached Jacksonville FL.
The job I had taken in Jacksonville turned out to be kind of a scam, and the apartment we were living in was not in the greatest neighborhood, but some of my favorite memories are in that tiny little bedroom, with Cordelia on the bed laying next to me while I read one of my many books. It was just me and her...until it wasn't.
I don't think either one of us expected what happened next, but suddenly there was Leslie. She didn't care that I was a messed up, emotionally fragile, broke, man. She saw a cute guy that she liked, and a beautiful puppy that she immediately loved. She didn't ask anything of either one of us. She loved us as we were, even when we were homeless, penniless, and damaged she loved us. Leslie brought us into her life, and introduced us to her parents, Edna & Ruban, and they too didn't care about any of our flaws. They saw two souls who had each other, and just wanted to be a part of their lives.
One Christmas we were visiting Edna & Ruban and Edna had decorated for the holidays. This meant that she had several nativity sets spread out all over the house, including the living room table. Now Cordelia loved Edna and Ruban and this meant that her tail was wagging. He big giant fluffy tail that had a mind of it's own, and before anyone could stop it her tail hit one of Ednas nativity sets and it crashed to the floor and broke. I was mortified, as was Leslie, Cordelia had no idea what happened, and was just confused why no one was petting her. Edna being the woman she is told us not to worry. She swept up the broken pieces, hugged both myself and Cordelia and told us that we were more important then any decoration.
We had found our family. People who loved us and cared for us regardless of our past, our mistakes, and our flaws.
Over the years Edna and Ruban have taken in and cared for Cordelia when Leslie and I were out of town. They loved her as her own, and were always willing and excited to take care of her and see her. They will never know how much their love has meant over the years.
In 2019 Leslie and I decided to get married in a small ceremony here in Orlando. We invited only our immediate family and a few close personal friends. As was right and fitting Cordelia was our Flower Girl, and we had even made a small flower ring for her to wear. During the ceremony we asked our friends Chad and Carrie to hold Cordelia while we got married, but Cordelia was not happy about this. She made it very clear that she was going to stand up there, together with her people, and no one was going to stop her. So there we were...What started out as just me, and then Cordelia, suddenly became three. We were a family. We were whole.
Leslie and I have so many memories of Cordelia. Most of the photos on our phones are of her, and we have enjoyed every single moment we got to spend with her. She was loved by so many people and she happily accepted pets from anyone who was willing to offer them to her. She has been one of the best things that has ever come into my life, and I can honestly say that she saved me. She loved me when I was absolutely unlovable, and she didn't care. I was hers, and she protected me.
When the time came it was swift, sudden, and unexpected. Leslie and I held her close and told her how much we loved her as the drugs took effect and she crossed over.
Now me, personally, I am not sure if I believe in any kind of afterlife, but I remember a story of a man who lost his dog to death. After his dogs death there was a hole left in his heart that was never really ever filled, and he carried that hole with him for the rest of his life. When the man finally died and crossed over to the other side he was greeted by an angel who smiled and said that he was glad the man was finally there, because someone had been waiting for him, and with that the man looked up and saw his dog running towards him. After so long apart they were finally together again and the hole in his heart was filled.
If there is an afterlife, I really hope that Cordelia will be there waiting for me on the other side. She has left a hole in the hearts of me and Leslie that I don't think will ever be able to be filled, but maybe, just maybe someday, Leslie and I can see her running towards us after a long time waiting.
I miss you girl, and I hope you know how much I loved you. Thank you for saving me.
The Social Media Blues: A Photographer's Journey Through the Numbers Game
As a photographer, I've always had a keen eye for capturing moments and telling stories through my lens. And let me tell you, it's a real hoot and a half when those stories end up on social media. I mean, who wouldn't want to share their incredible photography skills with the world, right? That's like asking a dad if he wants to tell a dad joke. The answer is always yes!
But let's be real here, the social media aspect of photography can be a real pain in the camera. I mean, I've been building my online presence for years now. I was an early adopter of social media, back when it was cool and hip. I posted quality images and reels that I thought people would love. I even added a touch of humor, like a good dad joke, to keep things light and entertaining. But despite the fact that I have almost 3000 followers, I still only get maybe 15-20 likes on a post and hardly ever get any comments. It's frustrating, and I honestly feel like I'm shouting into the void.
But here's the real kicker, I know that I shouldn't get caught up in the numbers game of social media. I mean, it's like the old saying goes, "Why did the scarecrow win an award?" Because he was outstanding in his field! See what I did there?
Anyway, back to the point. I shouldn't measure my success as a photographer based on the number of likes or comments that I receive. That's like judging a book by its cover. But let's be honest, it's hard not to. I mean, who doesn't want a little validation for their hard work?
So, to all my fellow photographers out there, don't get discouraged. Keep snapping those pictures and telling those stories. And remember, social media is just one platform for sharing your work. Your true success as a photographer lies in your passion, creativity, and the memories that you capture. And maybe a good dad joke or two, because laughter is the best lens cleaner!
Mastering the Art of Nude Photography: 5 Essential Tips
Last year I had dinner with a friend and renowned photographer. His work has long been an inspiration to me, and I even have several of his pieces displayed in my home. Over dinner, he shared a memorable story about a photoshoot he did with two models/actresses.
The models, during the shoot, proposed to switch things up and do some artistic nudes for the project. To my friend's surprise, they began undressing before he could even process the situation. He had never photographed nude models before and felt intimidated, so he excused himself for a quick break and turned to Google for guidance, typing in "How to Shoot Nude Models". Despite his lack of experience, he excelled and produced a stunning piece of art that now hangs in my home as a gift from him.
This story got me thinking about my own journey in shooting nude photography. My first attempt was with a digital camera and my first wife as the model. We were novice and the results were less than satisfactory. Many years later, I encountered another surprise during a Christmas boudoir shoot when the model suddenly stripped without warning.
Shooting nudes can be a challenge, and that's why I'd like to share some tips for aspiring photographers who want to take on the task.
- Communication is Key
The first and most important tip for shooting nude photography is to have an open and honest conversation with your model before the shoot. Discuss their comfort level, limits, and expectations to ensure that you are both on the same page. This not only helps to create a positive and safe environment for the shoot, but it also establishes trust and respect between you and your model. Further during the shoot check in with your model often. Ask them if they are ok with direction of the shoot, poses, etc. and above all make sure that your model feels safe enough to express discomfort, or ask for a change in direction. If a model "suffers in silence" you have failed as a photographer by not creating a safe place for the model to express themselves.
- Respect your Model
Nude photography is not just about capturing images of a naked body, it's about capturing the beauty, grace, and dignity of the human form. Therefore, it's important to always treat your model with respect and professionalism. This means avoiding inappropriate comments or gestures, and ensuring that the model's privacy and dignity are protected both during and after the shoot. I will NEVER do a boudoir or nude shoot alone, and neither should the model. I always encourage a model to bring a friend with them to the shoot for safety, and I also let them know that I will have a female friend joining us for the shoot as well. Safety should be your #1 priority for both yourself and model.
- Lighting Matters
Lighting is an essential element in any type of photography, and it's even more important in nude photography. Experiment with different lighting setups to find the right balance between light and shadow that flatters your model's body and captures the mood and emotion you're trying to convey. Good lighting can make all the difference in creating beautiful and tasteful images.
- Get Creative with Posing
When it comes to posing, the possibilities are endless. Work with your model to find poses that are comfortable and flattering, and that convey the mood and emotion you're trying to capture. Keep in mind that the model's safety should always come first, so avoid any positions that could put them in an uncomfortable or painful position. Encourage your model to express themselves through their pose and don't be afraid to try new and creative things.
- Mindful Post-Processing
When editing your photos, it's important to be mindful of the model's privacy and dignity. Avoid excessive retouching or manipulation that could change the natural look and form of their body. Instead, focus on enhancing the lighting, contrast, and color to bring out the beauty of the images you've captured. Remember, your goal is to create beautiful and tasteful images that both you and your model can be proud of.
Shooting nude photography requires a lot of respect, communication, and professionalism. By following these tips, you can create a positive and safe environment for your model, capture beautiful and tasteful photographs, and grow as a photographer in the process. So, go ahead and try shooting nudes, you might just surprise yourself with the results!
Why I Keep Seeking Approval from People Who Don't Give Me the Time of Day: A Personal Journey
Why do I do this to myself? Why do I put myself through the emotional wringer of seeking the approval of someone who clearly couldn't care less about me? I mean, seriously, why do we as human beings feel the need to seek validation from people who don't give us even the smallest bit of effort? It's a mystery that has plagued me for far too long.
So, I was recently hired to take photos of a product that I've been using since I was 15. I was thrilled about the opportunity, thinking that this would be the moment that this person would finally take notice of me and be proud of me. Yeah, I know, I should have known better. But did I listen to that little voice in my head? Of course not. I went ahead and sent this person a sample of my photos, hoping for a response, a reaction, anything. And what did I get? Absolutely nothing. Zilch. Nada. It was like I was sending my photos into the void.
But, you know what they say, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. So, here I am, once again, feeling like a complete moron for seeking the approval of someone who has shown me time and time again that they don't care. It's like I can't help myself.
Why do we as human beings put so much importance on the opinions of people who don't make an effort in our lives? It's time to take a step back and ask ourselves what's really going on here. Our worth and value as individuals come from within, not from the validation of others. So, let's stop setting ourselves up for disappointment and start focusing on our own self-esteem.
Seeking approval from others is a natural part of being human, but it's important to understand that our worth doesn't depend on the validation of others. We must focus on our own self-esteem and recognize that we are valuable and deserving of love and respect, regardless of the opinions of others. And if all else fails, we can always fall back on sarcasm to help us get through the tough times. Because, let's be real, sometimes sarcasm is the only thing that gets us through life.
2023: A New Year Full of Hope and Possibility
It's been a while since I felt this hopeful about a new year. Over the years, life has thrown its fair share of challenges my way, from financial stress to divorce and moving. But this year, something felt different. As I entered 2023, I felt a renewed sense of optimism and hope for what was to come.
I don't want to jinx it, but January was a pretty good month for me. Although there were certainly some tough moments, overall, it was a positive start to the new year. One of the biggest highlights was having two big clients pay their invoices in full and on time. This was a big win for me, as it provided a financial boost and a sense of stability that I haven't felt in a while.
In addition to the financial stability, my work queue is also filled with exciting new opportunities. I've been asked to do product photography for some fantastic companies, and before the day had even finished, I had already booked another client for double my standard rate. It's clear that 2023 is off to a good start, and I'm feeling confident about the year ahead.
For many years, my word for the year has been "peace." This is the first year in a long time that I feel like I'm finally closing in on that goal. The financial stability and new work opportunities have provided a sense of peace and calm that I haven't felt in a while. I'm no longer worrying about how I'm going to pay the bills or where my next job is coming from. Instead, I'm focusing on the present moment and all the exciting things that the future holds.
Of course, I'm realistic enough to know that 2023 won't be all sunshine and rainbows. There will certainly be tough moments, and there will be times when I feel overwhelmed and stressed. But I'm approaching the year with a sense of hope and positivity that I haven't felt in a while. I'm ready to tackle the challenges that come my way and embrace the opportunities that the year presents.
So, here's to a new year filled with hope, adventure, and peace. Let's see what 2023 has in store! I'm excited to see what the future holds, and I'm confident that this will be a year to remember.
