“You’ve got a handful of years to do your work, don’t you dare waste those moments whining instead of creating something amazing.” David Duchemin
Just few words about the above quote. Some statements or quotes will mean nothing while some are essential moments, shaking the sandy foundation we are standing on.
I’ve been passionately pursuing images for the past ten years. Prior to that I shot to record family events such as birthdays, vacations and an occasional flower. Admittedly, at one time I envisioned living a career as a photographer, raking in the money, but let that fall to the wayside as I focused my attention on raising a family and pursuing a career in engineering. I have no regrets there as I needed to be on that path.
I listened to those voices within telling me I was not good enough or worse yet I would never be good enough to make it as a photographer. To me photography as a career was for a select few with talent I did not have. I definitely did not look at photography as a creative outlet for me. And, I do not remember having a positive voice around me to offer support and encouragement. These dreams were kept buried within me, suppressed. The world around me suggested I work for a corporation to make sure I had medical benefits, put in 40 hours a week, put away 10% in a 401k and take my 2-3 weeks vacation each year. I now see photography as a work, my work, a way to express my creativity and has taught me about life, how to see it and be present to it. So, before the final sunset in this life I hope to inspire myself and others to pursue dreams and discover more dreams. We don’t need to wast the moments.
6 Comments
ken bello
Chances are you provided for your family (financially) much better as an engineer than as 98% of photographers. There is nothing regrettable about that and you can be proud of the choices you made.
Monte Stevens
I am also glad of my choices, Ken. I’m who I am because of them. If there is regret it’s because I did not pursue the creativity within.
Steve Skinner
With this image Monte, you are doing a great job in the “inspiration department”.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Steve.
Mark
Nicely written post, one that I can relate to in many ways. I can’t say there is a day that goes by that I find myself thinking about the practical path I chose in making a living, vs one that finds me doing something I love.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Mark. I like how you say that so easily and feel the same way, “…doing something I love.”