"White Blank Page"

I met with my new intern, Mallory Claire, yesterday! She is a beautifully gifted young photographer that is just looking for a door or a even a tiny window into the world of professional photography  We had a great little 2 hour chat and I instantly knew she was the 'one' for me.

For those that don't know, I am a self taught photographer, like many in the business. My only leg up into the photography world was working a job that gave me tons of rules regarding how photography 'should be done.' I think of those 'rules' now and laugh! With photography, there are no rules about how you should take a picture. You don't need a fancy camera with expensive lenses. You don't need a model with snazzy make-up. You just have to 'CLICK'. 

 When talking to Mallory, I was constantly reminded of the hurdles that you face when you start a new journey into a field, or art that you LOVE. The love for the art is there. The passion. The drive. And for many that don't know where to start, those obstacles tend to be the only thing we see. 

How do I start a website? How do a make a name for myself? How do I even build a portfolio and get the experience I need if everyone in the field that I have approached for help already views me as 'competition'?

My question is "Why are so many afraid to help others succeed?"

Don't they know that the 'success' they have is only temporary.? We must continually strive to reach new goals in our 'art' in order to grow as artists. 

This is where a BIG light bulb in my brain came on. 

When you step outside your personal gain to help another person reach a goal, you are succeeding at a whole new level. 

I personally am always changing and learning in this field.  So why would I forge a road, break down walls, make a path, or a build a bridge only to not allow other people to cross it? I believe that everyone is equally deserving of success if they believe they can succeed. Sometimes we just need a little boost. Whether it be encouragement from a friend, from a family member, from a stranger, or another photographer, boosts of encouragement towards are growing 'success' come from so many different directions. My new adventure is to give Mallory a little boost. With just a little encouragement, boost of knowledge and exposure to more experience I could help another photographer  discover their 'success.' In the meantime, I will continue to grow as a photographer as well as a person.

Im heading down an incredible path, and I would love some company! 

When I hear this song, I think of my relationship with photography. I want to leave myself open to any opportunity that is set before me.  I want every day to be refreshed. 

I want to start clean, with a 'white blank page' and be excited of what I can add to it!