Photography is about more than just a camera and photos.
The people you meet, the peers and colleagues to network with.
The chances to be outgoing and grow as a person. Coming out of your shell.
The unforgettable moments of laughter and experiences exhibiting the work to the public.
Those tough obstacles faced by doing long-distance hikes and all the stresses in every type of weather or drastic conditions.
These lessons teach more about who you are and who you wanna be.
Everyone is a Photographer.
With that being said, I am only in competition with myself.
We are all in this together.
In spirit of this blog entry, I want to share a little poem I wrote several years ago about one of my favorite birds…
“Great Bird, Big Blue, Mighty Heron
Common to the world’s eye yet so much more special.
Not a very social one, but a passionate creature.
You live life best on your own terms.
King of the marsh, the pond.
The world within you.
This universe all around us.
The fish in the lake.
Could be your catch of the day.
Simple sincerity in taking what can be yours.
Majestic wingspan, beating to the sound of your heart.
A simple day in solitude.
Free as can be.
Great Blue Heron will soon see.”
The words still ring true to this day, as it reminds me of why I do what I do. Whether great photos or not are captured.
An appreciation for the environment and wildlife living in it is what makes the photography all the more special.
When Success Comes in a Different Form
All of this. It’s hard to put into words. I can barely spell it out for you.
You have to define what exactly that that success looks like to you. Only you can answer this!
I would say that the world is meant to be explored, to be traveled, to be preserved.
If I adhere to these words as if repeating them like a mantra, then I am successful.
The camera or any gear at this point is just a tool to achieve something greater, perhaps commercial success (which is always secondary for me!)
So to follow-up, here’s the second half of my definition…
Success to me is making a living from the art and living to make the art.
Once again, define the S-word for your own purpose.
There is always a certain joy being behind the camera, yet still I feel..
..this is about more than just taking pictures.
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