photo words
I’ve alluded to it elsewhere, but as I’ve been reviewing images for a new portfolio site, I made an alarming discovery: I am not happy with my work. I know, I know - who is? However, in the past I could say that I was, at least with 2010-present [may we never speak of some wide angle shots circa ‘07.] It was heartbreaking. It was frustrating. And I hope that ultimately it revolutionizes my work in the coming year.
I realize that I live in a weird bubble, in which I am so lucky be surrounded by immense photo talent, daily. I have met and even worked with some of my heroes, which is bonkers. But even in such close contact, it isn’t simply a matter of comparing myself to them. If I was still doing that I’d be in a padded cell by now. However, I want my work to AFFECT me the way theirs does, not to look like theirs. I want it to punch me in the gut, to cause a swift inhale, to be moments I’m proud of as standalone images as well as a part of a series.
What I did create last night was a rough grouping of my own images that DO do that for me, and to be able to examine what they have in common, and what is drawing me to connect with them.
The very first thing I noticed, which I did not catch during selects: there is no direct eye contact in any of the frames. I learned that I like small, tender, private little moments. Even when there is bold color or motion or expression, I feel there’s something delicate about what is taking place. They are also, often, WEIRD. Unconventional use of space. A little messy. Inviting further explanation, which the next frame may or may not resolve. Strange objects. Simultaneous pause and motion.
My fuggin’ rad friend/guru/dreamgirl Rachel Demy said just yesterday: being fearless and unapologetic about what you want is the most important step to manifesting and materializing your goals. So here I am, fearlessly talking about my process on the internet and being candid about my shortcomings with myself and with my dear hodgepodge of readers. And I can see where I want my work to be in the next year, or even next month. This process of dissatisfaction is excruciating, but how else do you learn to make better art.
Or, as my friend Bradley Spitzer put it today: LEVEL UP.
photo words
I’ve alluded to it elsewhere, but as I’ve been reviewing images for a new portfolio site, I made an alarming discovery: I am not happy with my work. I know, I know - who is? However, in the past I could say that I was, at least with 2010-present [may we never speak of some wide angle shots circa ‘07.] It was heartbreaking. It was frustrating. And I hope that ultimately it revolutionizes my work in the coming year.
I realize that I live in a weird bubble, in which I am so lucky be surrounded by immense photo talent, daily. I have met and even worked with some of my heroes, which is bonkers. But even in such close contact, it isn’t simply a matter of comparing myself to them. If I was still doing that I’d be in a padded cell by now. However, I want my work to AFFECT me the way theirs does, not to look like theirs. I want it to punch me in the gut, to cause a swift inhale, to be moments I’m proud of as standalone images as well as a part of a series.
What I did create last night was a rough grouping of my own images that DO do that for me, and to be able to examine what they have in common, and what is drawing me to connect with them.
The very first thing I noticed, which I did not catch during selects: there is no direct eye contact in any of the frames. I learned that I like small, tender, private little moments. Even when there is bold color or motion or expression, I feel there’s something delicate about what is taking place. They are also, often, WEIRD. Unconventional use of space. A little messy. Inviting further explanation, which the next frame may or may not resolve. Strange objects. Simultaneous pause and motion.
My fuggin’ rad friend/guru/dreamgirl Rachel Demy said just yesterday: being fearless and unapologetic about what you want is the most important step to manifesting and materializing your goals. So here I am, fearlessly talking about my process on the internet and being candid about my shortcomings with myself and with my dear hodgepodge of readers. And I can see where I want my work to be in the next year, or even next month. This process of dissatisfaction is excruciating, but how else do you learn to make better art.
Or, as my friend Bradley Spitzer put it today: LEVEL UP.
Posted 2 months ago Notes
