|
February 2003
Hi Anthony -
First I want to thank you for all the time spent with me.
I appreciate the clear expertise and enthusiasm you have.
Secondly, I wanted to tell you about two amazing things that
have happened just since Monday. After absorbing our session
and coming face-to-face with the fact that my natural talents
are in line with my passion for documentary storytelling, on
Tuesday I discovered the web site of a man who worked as a staff
photographer for 30 years at National Geographic. Feeling bold,
I e-mailed him to ask if he would be willing to have coffee and
share some insight as I begin my journey. Not only did he respond
right away, but he invited me to attend a photography event that
night . I attended the event, introduced myself to him, and he
suggested we find a Starbucks right then! So there I was...sitting
across the table from a man who has been described as a legend
in the halls of National Geographic. He gave me some great advice,
explained how difficult the path can be, and said he'd like to
see my portfolio some day. I have to believe that this was serendipity
in action. I spent a good part of Wednesday researching digital
cameras, reading in the library, and shooting photos around the
neighborhood. And yesterday morning I got a call from the Executive
Producer at a documentary film making company I have been courting
and learned that she has a new project on her plate that she
wants me involved in. The project is about survivors of domestic
abuse...and will combine video and photography...with a heavy
emphasis on documentary-style photography. The timing couldn't
be better.
I have so much to learn, and the demons of self defeat are
certainly present. Out of the roll that I shot yesterday, I ended
up with one or two good photos. But I learned some good lessons
and I had an absolute ball.. I think I just need to look in the
mirror and commit to this journey....and give it all I have after
that. Only then -- if I understood the elements of my high diagnostic
reasoning score correctly -- can I get the focus off of me and
start thinking about where I can apply my talents to solve problems
in the world. Right?
As I progress down this path, I certainly welcome any thoughts
or ideas you have about taking a dream and making it a reality;
taking an idea and putting it into action.
I've attached a couple photos I shot recently. The first represents
the beauty of winter, and the second the pleasure of music.
I'll keep you posted on what doors open next. Thanks again.
And please keep me posted on how your efforts to reach into the
schools goes. It's such a great idea.
Tony
Alexandria, VA
| 
