Earlier this week, I gave five reasons to give up. These were all personal challenges, though I expect I am not alone in my frustration. In college, a classmate once noted that, no matter how negative I go, I always find a way to spin things positive. I’m not sure if that is a blessing or a curse. I find it very hard to walk away when I should. Is there really such a thing as too much hope? Definitely! Especially when that hope is misplaced.
Reasons I Remain In The Game
This could be a very long list, but I will do my best to keep it short. Perhaps I can keep it to the point as well? We’ll see.
Years Invested
I first picked up the camera, briefly, in college. Life interfered and I left it behind for nearly a decade before falling irrevocably in love with photography. There were several years of landscapes, wildlife, and very rare portraits. When I tentatively started to reach out, I suddenly found how much I enjoyed working with people. And, then, there were the people who invested time and interest in me. Whether or not you see me or my work, I’ve been in the game far too long to just set the camera down.
Ideas In The Bank
I have a list of ideas conceived before I ever photographed a single model. It is rarely top of mind, but it is there. Among the (often bland) concepts are some that I should really explore. The right talent and the right timing? I can still knock some of these out.
Mondays May Finally Be Free
For several years, my Monday nights have been tied up. That is beginning to change. It has been a long time since I have been able to consider joining one of the local camera club meetings (who meet regularly on Mondays). Perhaps now is the time? Where are my friends who take part in these? If you had to pick one group, who would it be?
Past Collaborators Still Knock On My Door
Some of my favorite people to work with are still fighting the good fight. They need me to stay in the game, too. Whether product photography, fashion catalogs, or just a portfolio update, these are always welcome visits. There is nothing I enjoy more than helping others achieve their goals by lending them by skillset.
Friends
Over the years, I have made a lot of friends both near and far. They inspire me to stay in the game, too. Photography puts me in the company of people I would otherwise have never met and I am the better for it. A few have since passed away, leaving gaping holes in my motivation. I know more than one of them would be upset if I set the camera down. Why would I burn a bridge that brought me so many good friends?
Summing Up
Photography has changed my life in so many ways that it is difficult to express. Most of my frustrations lie in the difficulty of finding the time, places, and people to practice the art. It has become too easy to be complacent. When I am behind the lens, even when working outside of my comfort zone, I am a better person. This is why I likely couldn’t give up photography if I tried. I need photography to find myself. I need photography to find you, too.
