It's the enthusiasm of new photographers that inspires me the most. They're often flying by the seat of their pants, but they're so passionate and excited to be a part of this industry.
Lately I'm finding a lot of my inspiration is coming from relatively new photographers. For all practical purposes let's define a "newbie" as any photographer who's been shooting for two years or less. They're not necessarily young, just new to the industry, but their passion will match any seasoned veteran!
I know there are a lot of new photographers who are screwing up the market, specifically the ones with incredibly bad quality and the customer service sensitivity of a storm-trooper. So for this discussion, I'm only talking about the newbies I've met, follow, have seen their work, etc. I'm talking about those new photographers who are active in the forums and like sponges, are trying to soak up every bit of knowledge they can find. Here's what I love the most...their energy and passion. Even when they're frustrated they seem to do it with energy as opposed to complacency. They're not afraid to ask questions. They take notes in a workshop. They're experimenting with exposures and composition - always looking to find their own voice. They're goal oriented wanting desperately to be successful and happy. I've worked a lot with students, both on the high school and college levels, and I always find myself energized afterwards. The newbies remind me a lot of students. They're not caught up in worrying about changing technology. They're completely optimistic and yes, critics will say they're naive, but weren't we all once? How wonderful would it be to get back to that blind optimism and believing each of us could change the world. In a strange way, at least with me, I still believe I can, but I'm not out to change the world - just want to help my little corner of it. I see so many photographers feeling frustrated over the economy and trying to keep up with technology. I don't know the answer, but I do know part of the challenge is in your mindset. It's most helpful to have a support group of family and friends who believe in you. A few times over the years I've shared one of my favorite quotes and it's time to bring it back one more time... "Life isn't about waiting for the storms to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain!" With what Mother Nature has done to us this winter, I guess rain should be extended to include cold, snow and ice! Happy Friday everybody - make it a great weekend and dance a little! Photo Credit: © Minerva Studio - Fotolia.com
2 Comments
I remember those days Skip when I was a newbie. 1979. I took an amateur class with a local photographer. Later he invited me to a private workshop with Robin Perry, A very successful advertising photographer. I went to his studio in New London CT. I remember meeting him the night before the class. When we were chatting he said how photography is not just a profession, it's a lifestyle. Then after asking of my experience he said that if this workshop was over my head he would refund my money. I had no parts of that. I was like the sponge you mention. I was so enthralled the whole time & went back later that year for another full week workshop. Some of the best times in my life. 1/24/2014 01:46:37 am
New photographers help to push the industry in directions old photographers wouldn't really think of. With a combination of training and there own ideas they can help move the industry to a new direction. Business training is just as important as photography training! Leave a Reply. |
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