Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1996/10/10
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Eric Welch wrote: > Photography is the only way I can see myself make a living, either shooting > or editing. I'm too hooked on it to not do it regularly. What caused you to > quit? Needed more money? I could understand that! <g> Eric, I too love photography. I am only learning how much now. I studied photojournalism at the University of Florida College of Journalism, went to Eddie Adams V, graduated got a job (10 days before I graduated), and worked for two years at the Leesburg Daily Commercial Commercial, as 30,000 circ. NYTNG paper. I did not leave only because of the money. I began to realize there was a clash between the idealistic idenity of a photojournalist I had built for myself and what I really want. I feel a strong need for community. I realized that as a news photog I was going to have to move communities each time I moved up in the profession. I also realize that I like nice things and need to be able to pay for them. I also began to realize that the pictures were only of secondary importance to me. What I enjoy is the relationship with my subjects. Behind my camera I isolated myself. They couldn't touch me, and I could not touch them. The most constant critique I got at portfolio review sessions was "Your work is technically good, but there is nothing of you in it." I was playing the role of photographer instead of just being one. So I quit, moved home and did not touch my camera for two years. I am now getting a Doctorate in Psychology and actually helping people. This summer I went to Israel and actually made pictures I like. It was a whole new experience. No deadline, no portfolio, just shooting for me. My picutres are a world stronger too. I see picture stories everywhere and am looking foward to doing some personal projects. Donny