One thing I have learned in my photography journey is that what I am doing is art. While photography does have its rules and some follow it to the extreme, I’ve come to realize, after a lecture with the incomparable Joel Grimes, and with my own gut feeling, that I am an artist. Sometimes my pictures aren’t the sharpest (I was going for the old time, film noir look), or that my editing don’t follow the guide lines, the end result is what I wanted out of the photo and my clients, who’s ultimate opinion matters the most, love them.
I was always looking for the best gear or asking about specific gear when, in all honesty, I have all I need. And if I were to get any kind of certain gear, it's only as good as my talent will make it. I have taken fantastic shots with an entry level camera and kit lens. I have taken stunning pictures using a $14 flash. I know that the better quality gear can help, but really, it's my talent that makes an image.
When Facebook started these wonderful groups where other photographers gathered, I was so excited. I can share my work for critique and maybe even a few attaboys. I joined as many as I could find. I posted a lot of work. Answered questions that were asked, even asked a few myself. And what I learned is that they didn’t teach me anything more than I already knew. In fact, most of the answers/critiques/responses were more geared to hurt than to help. There are a lot of photographers out there who think it’s their way or the highway. I post a photo for genuine critique and literally get no response. Yet I see photos that received a lot of comments, normally because they were bad photographs. It seems like my fellow photographers like to really tear down someone.
What I came to realize is that I don’t NEED any of that. I left all those groups. I stayed in a few modeling groups and local photography groups that I have enjoyed talking with some of my local peeps. I am much more confident in the quality of my art so I don’t need the negativity. If I need some opinions, I have a select group of people whom I feel will give me some unvarnished answers.
My aim is to create beautiful art. I have branched out a bit more into fashion and modeling work and have really found that my art has leaped forward quite a bit. I find myself enjoying the process more and am making better art because of it. Thank you all for following along my art and allowing me to share with you.