Last week I had the immense pleasure of attending a photography conference, of sorts, called Escalate Live 2010. Dane Sanders, along with 7 other photographers whom I admire (ok…stalk) would be speaking. I wouldn’t be taught technique or how to use my camera. This was going to be different. The goal of Escalate Live was simple: Get ready to delve deep as our speakers invite you explore topics on vision, strategy, identity. Who are you as a photographer? What were you made to do? How are you moving your vision everyday into a reality? Through the two days we hope you will be challenged, inspired, and in the end… changed.
I unwrapped myself from my children at 5 am and snuck out to the car to drive to the airport. The conference was in Newport Beach, California, near Los Angeles. I flew out two days early to spend time with family and friends (I’ll blog on this later!). Escalate Live was attended by photographers from across the country as well as thousands of people online who watched it live.
I had the honor of personally meeting and speaking with Jasmine Star, Jessica Claire, Dane Sanders, Jerry Ghionis, Becker, David Jay, Jeremy Cowart, and Julianne Kost.
More than anything, what I took from the conference (besides aspiring to be amazingly talented and take beautiful pictures) is to be FOR each other as photographers. Sort of a “pay it forward” mentality…or in Becker’s words “A rising tide raises all ships”. Or at least I think he said that.
I want to build relationships–no, friendships–with other photographers. I want to help photographers others succeed. I want to learn from them. I want to help my client’s let their light shine. I want to give back. I was so impressed by how all these photographers in their own way, continually give back–to other photographers, to their communities, to those in need. Reminds me of Phil. 2: 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
The question I keep turning over and over in my mind and one which I haven’t quite figured out is: I am passionate about my faith in God…how do I combine this with my passion for photography? I have some ideas, but would love to hear yours too, if you have any. Feel free to comment!
Let it shine!
me and J*
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