The day started innocently enough, another bat-mitzvah in the San Fernando Valley needed photographing and I was just the girl to do it. Things were going along swimmingly. As usual, Larry was working hard by my side and we were joined by David Robin, the super talented videographer of David Robin Films. Between the motzi and the horra, David casually asks me, “are you on Instagram?” I believe my response was “Insta-what now?” He then proceeded to explain to me that this was a really cool app like Twitter for iphone photographers. My first thought was, great, another vehicle designed to bring to light just how inept I am in the world of social media; but the part about the iphone photographers, caught my interest. Despite being a complete Luddite, I adore my iphone and especially making photographs with it.

Before I left that bat-mitzvah, I was completely hooked on Instagram. It was so much more than Twitter. Here was a place where extraordinary photographers were openly sharing tips, advice and a window into their corner of the world. The deeper I delved into Instagram, the more besotted I became. I was astounded at the sense of camaraderie and goodwill and the images flashing across my screen on any given day would be very much at home in an art gallery or fine bookstore.

I recently hit my one year anniversary on Instagram and wanted to share with you a little snippet of the images I’ve created over the last 12 months. Each photo recalls such a specific time and place for me. Some images were made on solitary walks, some on vacation with Larry and some on “Insta-meets” with my new like-minded friends. If any of you reading this love taking pictures with your iphone, give Instagram a try. The app is free so you have nothing to lose but a world’s breadth of friendships and inspiration to gain.

Look me up when you join. My user name is #isabellawrence. But be warned, it could prove to be highly addictive!