The Inspiration Behind Your Photography
“Whatever it takes to stay inspired is worth it.” – Alan Cohen
In a world over-saturated with information, photography tips are a dime a dozen. This post is not a tip or tutorial– partially because it contradicts my opening sentence, but mainly because I’m not qualified to share any tips regarding photography. What I do want to share is what inspired me to start this hobby that so many have already fallen in love with.
It began with an internship– an internship that threw me in the midst of a production studio that provided professional tips for anyone aspiring to advance their photography skills. It would have been a dream come true if I knew anything at all about photography; I knew nothing about photography. So naturally, my first assignment was to watch one of the videos and familiarize myself with the basics. After several minutes of scrolling through the hundred-plus video library, I settled on an episode featuring Bob Holmes. Why I chose that video will forever be a mystery, let’s just call it fate.
Image by Bob Holmes
Now I would be lying if I told you that I was immediately drawn into photography, or that I even watched the entire video (sshhh). Instead, it was a subtle hint and photo (to the right) he gave around the 5:30 mark that resonated with me: “One thing that most photographs need is some punctuation point, some little element that will bring it to life.” Fast-forward two months and I’m standing along the shoreline in Seattle, Washington with my girlfriend at the time. Looking out into the sunset, I heard the British accented voice of god, “most photographs need some punctuation point.” The voice was later determined to be that of Bob Holmes. I felt inspired, and based on what I remembered from the video, I managed to capture the following image:
Image by Nathaniel Chu
I’m not a professional photographer, I’d be the first person to tell you that. But I was inspired to capture a moment, one that I will treasure forever and proudly share on my Instagram or Facebook. At the end of the day, isn’t that what photography is all about? Capturing a moment, telling a story, and sharing it with people?
I didn’t expect to fall in love with this hobby but like most things you fall in love with, it came out of nowhere and I just went with it (try not to gag). Today I continue to watch the videos AYP produces and not just because I work here, but because I am constantly being inspired by each photographer.
So that’s my story. But I want to know yours and what inspires you to shoot. Who and what made you decide to pick up this hobby (or career)? I’ve shared with you my first proud photograph, and I’d love for you to share yours with me. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram and see my progression.
Be inspired, shoot, and share.
Nathaniel,
Several days ago I read your article, but didn’t have enough time to make a comment.
Actually I knew there was not only several things worthy of comment, but also an important underlying wrap-up statement that just wasn’t maturing the way I envisioned it should.
Yes AYP is a lot about sharing; with many, many gracious pros that do just that for anyone that cares to listen and learn. And yes to me it was clear and obvious that you had put a lot of heart and thought into your article, not to even mention revealing a lot of what is in your heart as well as your goals and aspirations. In my mind it takes courage and daring to do that.
So, this evening I’m surprised; even annoyed sitting here wondering how many visitors read your article, took the time to find out what Mr. Holmes had to say in his video, then went out the door without dropping you a short line saying thanks.
And therein the elusive aforementioned underlying wrap-up statement must yield for something much more important that is explicitly for you and those you love and work with at AYP.
You are still very young. Never doubt that you are associated with some of the most earnest, diligent and sincere people on Earth. But most important of all know and believe that you as a person and as a photographer are leaving a very hard act for others to follow.
Perhaps that is why none found the time, or knew how to say thanks Nathaniel.
Thank you so much, Carl, for that uplifting comment.
I must admit it was a little discouraging to share my personal experiences and feel like I was unable to touch anyone.
I’ve realized that blogging, much like photography, contains an array of personality so it would be unrealistic for me to assume everyone would be moved by my words. But nonetheless, don’t we all seek some sort of merit for our work? So again, thank you Carl. Your comment alone made the time I spent on this blog worth it.
– Nathaniel
Thank you for accepting my comment in the light that it was given Nathaniel.
Photographers and artists and creators usually share a degree of sensitivity that is easier to damage than one might imagine.
It is good to see that you recognize this and that you are fully aware that you need a modicum of alligator in your system to be a blogger.
Carl
Agreed. I feel like it is human nature to take pride in what you produce– whether it be a blog post, a photograph, an invention, or a child. We all have a special bond– if you will– with the product we put our blood sweat and tears into.
Thanks again for your comment an honestly. Look forward to hearing more of your thought on future posts.
-Nathaniel