Well, here I am beginning a fresh new blog post.  The first one in some years.  Lots has transpired in my life since my last post.  I am a Leukemia survivor.  Cancer messes with your body, but it also messes with your emotions.  It has had the effect of re-arranging my priorities a bit. My creative photography has taken a back seat to self care.  Where am I now?  

     Recovery is a good word.  It explains a point in a journey.  Recently, I've spent good time on sitting with and enjoying my best work.  I can see myself behind the camera as I created each composition.  Where was my head at when I gently squeezed the shutter button?  How have I changed since then?  Moving forward what motivation will serve as inspiration so my work can get better and more personal?

     Self expression is my primary motivation.  I am perfectly capable of working with a client, but most important to me right now is the image in a frame.  I want to work with a more fluid natural creative process.  Rather than "finding" good photographic subject matter, my process will look and feel more organic.  I'll still do research and identify potiential subjects.  Once I do that, preperations begin in that I gear check, wheather check, available light check for time of day, and set out.  On the scene, a different mindset is applied.  Where once I seemed like the hunter, now I'm more of an observer.  I study what is in front of me, concentrate on getting my thinking mind in an open neutral state.  I don't try to force a photograph, I open up to the energy of what is around me and let the images come to me.  

     Keep in mind that I am working for myself.  I do not have to create a travel photograh or publicity photo.  My goal is modest.  I am looking for two or three images that will pop off my screen as I edit the shoot in post processing. The first person I need to please, is myself.  Next, the hope is that there are others that appreciate my point of view.  I imagine how the best image from the shoot will look matted and framed. Also important, is to keep my artistic eye free and open.  Openess and creative flexibility are important to me. 

     I greatly appreciate your feedback and comments.  If you want to, you can reach me by email at [email protected]  I will get your mail and respond.  I might need a little more time to respond these days, I hope that is okay with you.