Ah, summer. It's almost gone and the new school year is rapidly approaching (for which I am not yet ready). Did you know I'm also a Substitute Teacher? Yup. Kids all over NYC have experienced the "Bibula Stare", which is most powerful and effective.
I say "ah, summer" as if it were my favorite time of year. It isn't. Between the sweating and that smell only a NYer would recognize (a combo of rotting garbage, 8.5 million people's sweat, fumes, etc.) However, this summer has been strangely (and thankfully) super cool, minus a few gross days). That's climate change for ya. I did enjoy it, as not being grumpy about being sweaty all the time (one of my most hated things to be) did give me a chance to enjoy the quiet and actually THINK. I like to think. I like to think deeply about deep things. It's just me. Naturally I thought deeply about photography, the nature of it today, all the other people out there trying to make a photo business work, and most importantly, what direction I want to take mine in. If you've ever taken a tour through the most popular photographers' FB pages, you get a good idea of where trends are and what people are looking for. Don't get me wrong, you do have to sort of go with the flow and do some of that stuff, but there are a few special photographers whose work and attitude I really admire above all others. Their work and styles aside, I am genuinely impressed with their ability to keep a straight head and stay true to themselves. I am certain this took years of practice. If I ever met either of them in person, I do think that would be on my Top 3 list of things to compliment them on. I really want to give them credit. Here's why: they are ALWAYS Facebook-neutral, are consistent in their work and attitudes about work, they continually strive (and succeed) in improving, growing, and remaining professional. Notice how I didn't mention anything about their actual photos. Their work happens to be great, yes, but this isn't about the actual photos or their style of shooting.
Now, I'm not a bragger (really), but I actually already do a lot of what they do, just on a smaller and less known scale (workin' on it!). I think as a photographer who is public and perceived by others in a manner you know not, since you can't get into people's heads [yet], it's a good idea to look outward and inward. Am I setting an example for myself and others? Who I hire me? Is my work consistent? Do my clients feel safe? You could make a very long list of questions like these, but it all comes down to one thing: being the best you that you can be. I admit that this summer I did not accomplish everything I wanted to. Usually I succeed when I set a goal, as I always make them reasonable but challenging. I had some health issues this summer that got in the way, but I'll be honest: part of me isn't ok with that reason/excuse, though it is valid. So, back to getting things done! Let's TALK about that! I would love to hear other people's goals, whether personal or professional, and get a gab going! You know where to find me. See you out there, internet people (t
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