I have taken some time away from writing and other activities to search out some answers I needed to find on my own. During that time, I have had some experiences that confirm what I have known about myself for some time. I don’t like to blend in. I think everyone should know who they are, what makes them tick, happy, sad, what they are all about before they choose a career to pursue.
I have to start out with the short personal statement – I will not apologize for my faith as a Christian. I find that my pursuit of art and business are founded on what God’s desires for our lives. In turn, you will find that what I have to say is based on a foundation of faith. I am not a perfect man and have many flaws. So, if you find that my faith precludes you reading the remainder of this article or any others, I still wish you well.
I began saying that I realized some truths about myself. I definitely have outside influences, which have helped define my artistic voice. I do not like the standard off the shelf approach to portrait photography. I also like the influences of various types of music when I am working. It could be jazz, classical, opera, rock, you name it, and music has influenced how I have shot something. Then there are classic artists whose work I find inspiring, not only in subject but in sound and words too. I wrote a brief article “The Value of Monet, John Donne, and Puccini” that gives a brief thought on the influences. I find influences of others beneficial. Influences have help define who I am, what I like dislike, and hopefully brings a unique quality to my work.[singlepic id=882 w=520 h=440 mode=watermark float=left] (more…)