For years, I’d been meaning to send a note to a specific photographer whose work has had a profound impact on my career, life, and overall philosophical outlook. And it was one of those things that always seems to get pushed into the perpetual tomorrow pile. The problem being, of course, that tomorrow never comes.
Brother Wolf and Chased by the Light by Jim Brandenburg are two photography books that have had a lasting impact for me.
So on a cold, gray January day, late in the afternoon–on one of those days that seemed just meant for finally getting around to something–I made the time today to type out 368 well thought words to this legendary photographer. A couple of re-reads, an edit or two here and there, and I zapped off an email to one of the biggest influences in my career.
The next morning, I received a very nice return email thanking me for my taking the time to write.
Why not today? Why not take a few minutes and drop a line to a photographer that has made a serious impact on your photography--maybe it’s your dad or an uncle, maybe it’s a famous “brand-name” shooter. Whoever it is, let them know how their images have influenced you. Odds are, they’ll appreciate it. What's the worst thing that could happen--not getting a reply?
Oh, and the photographer I finally wrote on that cold January day? It was Jim Brandenburg. And yes, his work, especially Chased By the Light and Brother Wolf have had a profound impact on me and my life, in ways that transcend photography, and my career.
Why not today?
Feel free to post a comment about photographers who have had a major impact on your career, life.
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