ARE YOU A PHOTOGRAPHER? AM I?

In a recent post, I was having difficulty referring to myself as a photographer.  In fact, I couldn’t do it and finally called myself a “picture-taker.”  I think this feeling stems from the idea that making a bold claim such as being a photographer will subject my pictures to even greater scrutiny. 

Coupled with this thought over the past few weeks, it’s been seemingly difficult to visualize new photographic opportunities.  I’m constantly looking, but rarely seeing anything that seems remotely interesting to photograph.  This results in hundreds of shots taken and downloaded only to think, “Who would want to see these?”  Unfortunately in my mind, the answer “No one” bellows in my ears at a deafening volume. 

This scenario led me to my neighborhood bookstore.  After my usual browse through the photography section, I decided to venture outside of the strictness of photography and into the vastness of “Art!”  I perused dozens of books, but nothing seemed to captivate me.  Rather than spend any more time staring at the unique titles, I decided to seek help.  (Yes, I’m a man who will request help rather than waste time in an unfamiliar area.)  The “art specialist” led me straight to a book that had come highly recommended!  “Here it is.”  She said, as she eagerly handed me the book waiting  to see my expression.  She began to share highlights from the book as I began to energetically browse the pages.  “This is exactly what you’re looking for!”  She said.  “I know some of the exercises may seem silly and I know men are sometimes intimidated by anything that places them outside their comfort zone.  But, give it a try.  You won’t be sorry.”  I thought, “Wow!  This person is very perceptive and very persuasive.”  Alright, I’ll give it a try.

SIDEBAR: Yesterday while driving through a small neighboring town, I stopped the car to photograph a beautiful flower garden.  It’s nearly September, but I’ve learned that something is always blooming in Southern California.  After snapping a few shots, I turned to notice this cluster of pine cones in a nearby evergreen tree.  For some unexplained reason, they captivated me.  There’s nothing special about them.  But to me, they displayed a beauty even greater than the flowers.  Perhaps it’s the snow-like white spots creating a hint that winter will soon be upon us.  Whatever the attraction, I share them with you today.

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Impact from chapter 1:

Remember that in order to recover as an artist, you must be willing to be a bad artist.  Give yourself permission to be a beginner.  By being willing to be a bad artist, you have a chance to BE an artist, and perhaps over time, a very good one.

When I make this point in my teaching, I am met by instant defensive hostility: “But, do you know how old I will be by the time I really learn to be a photographer?” 

Yes…the same age you will be if you don’t.

So let’s start.

I’m hooked! 

The name of the book: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.

Thanks for stopping by.  I’ll see you tomorrow.

~ by photographyfree4all on August 31, 2010.