Take a picture and it will last a lifetime, but remember that National Photography Month only lasts through May. The month was selected in 1987 when congress realized how much this role plays in modern society (mimeophotos).

This is a month dedicated to help photographers sharpen their skills and there are lots of ways to do that during May. Some people may buy a new camera and learn how to use it. Others may take a step away from the cell phone photos and start to work with real film, spending time in a darkroom or taking their film in to a developer to discover the images long after the event.

While this month honors and encourages photographers, it also focuses on their art. Perhaps you would want to visit one of the photography exhibits in San Francisco at Pier24 or get inspired at The Selfie Market. Discover new styles and create your own

Perhaps a visit to a museum is not something you look forward to, or transportation or crowds provide a challenge. You can still celebrate National Photography Month in many ways. Why not create a photo book of your own favorite pictures? Design a pictorial family tree. Take your camera or cell phone out with you on a nature walk, or a city walk, and discover the world in pictures.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a photographer or not. You can always support what other people put out in the world for inspiration, and if you decide to give it a try, you may end up finding something you like.