 © esthermm  Last night's Awards of Excellence program at WPPI and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award was a complete surprise. It left me with what I consider an underwhelming response. Seriously, as I went to sleep I thought of everything in my heart, that never came out through my lips! A couple of lame stories about Tony Corbell and Bambi Cantrell, a thank you and then I became a deer in the headlights.
So, here's what I wish had come into my head... In 1987, after seventeen years at Polaroid, I joined the professional side of the industry as President of Hasselblad USA. So, twenty-nine years ago is where my journey started and it continues to be amazing. I know it sounds sappy, but I love this industry. I love the artists I've met along the way, and while so many of you were thanking me last night, my thanks goes to all of you. Tennyson wrote in Ulysses, "I am a part of all that I have met." Well, each of you has become a part of me. I've learned something from every person I've met and worked with. Many of you have inspired me to chase down new ideas, projects and even created the stimulus I needed to start my own company in 2009. Your entrepreneurial spirit sets a standard every day, reminding me never to slow down chasing my dreams. I know it's called a "Lifetime Achievement" but I'm hardly ready to slow down. My thanks starts with WPPI and their recognition of my "trip" so far. Thank you Tony and Bambi for your kind words - nothing beats long time friendships. A big thanks to so many of you for your encouragement and friendship over the years. And, to those of you in the "inner-circle" of my network what a kick it is to share this non-stop journey. Last on the list, but really first - Sheila, you continue to be my best buddy, my muse, coach, partner and often advisor. It's time to see what the next path brings into our life together. Sure do love ya.
14 Comments
3/10/2016 11:50:57 am
So thrilled for you Skip! Well deserved and thank you for your significant contributions that have shaped the photography industry into what it is today! 3/10/2016 12:30:16 pm
Finally - Well deserved. And no single award - lifetime or not - could be thanks enough or recognition enough for your contributions to our industry. You - and now Sheila - are and will always be one of the best things about being a part of this great family. Proud of you buddy - although you realize they only give awards like this to old guys :) 3/10/2016 12:42:41 pm
Congratulations, Skip ! Well deserved, you have done and continue to do so much for Professional Photography and in such an intelligent and gracious way.
Shauna Gartz
3/10/2016 01:12:24 pm
Congrats Skipper! Very much deserved! Wish I could have seen you speechless with my own two eyes! Is that even really possible?! Hahaha... Happy for you :) 3/10/2016 02:09:19 pm
Wow, Skip, you deserve it! I wish I could have been there to see you receive it!
Robert Nowells
3/10/2016 02:54:37 pm
No one could be more deserving of this award Skip! Looking forward to all your future contributions to our industry. You're the best!
Matthew Jordan Smith
3/10/2016 04:27:14 pm
You are so deserving of this Skip. This couldn't have happen to a better person! Congratulations again!!!! 3/10/2016 06:16:33 pm
Skip, every morning I grab a cup of coffee, turn on my computer and go straight to the advanced wedding photographer Facebook page to read your posts. Although we have never met personally I feel like I know you so well from the experiences you share with us, both business and personal. This is a well deserved, long overdue award. Congratulations and.....I'll see you in the morning! 3/10/2016 06:58:24 pm
Skip, I remember how kind you were at PPE in 2004. You took me to breakfast and handed me wisdom. I truly value the time and guidance you offered. You and Bill are responsible for much of what I've done in my teaching career. It was hrs to hold back the tears watching the video of Bill last night. We all loved him, and he touched so many of us in profound fashion. I felt it was incredibly classy of WPPI, Jason Groupp and Lauren Wendle to recognize your invaluable contributions. Congrats!
Michelle Porter
3/10/2016 08:05:18 pm
There is no one more deserving. You have given so much to anyone you meet that loves photography. You are one of a kind and I'm happy I can say I was there for some good time and always fantastic learning. Keep it up. You inspire and impact more people than you will ever be able to count. 3/10/2016 08:49:55 pm
Congrats, Skip! You've been a huge help to me as well. Keep it going!! Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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