Wednesday, September 24, 2014

My inspiration for writing this blog

I will be honest, there are times when writing a weekly blog can seem daunting. And once in a while (luckily not very often) I contemplate taking a break from the blog. What takes a couple of minutes to read can sometimes take me hours to write.
But then I get all the feedback from you, the readers, and I know that all this photography and writing is making a difference for others. These are usually people I have never met, and will likely never be lucky enough to ever have a face-to-face interaction.
With all of my travels, I never even made it over to our swim club this summer. But I stopped by on Friday and saw some friends who told me how much they liked the last blog post.
And then yesterday, I received this email from an 18 year old kid who is starting his own photography business:
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Hi Mr. Cable,

I just wanted to say that I am such a huge fan of all your work, your blog, and everything that you so willingly share. I am a photographer in Greeley, CO, just graduated high school, and you are a really huge inspiration to me. I hope that you will continue sharing all of your knowledge and great blog posts with the rest of your fans! Photography is such a difficult thing to do; yet, it is something we find ourselves "needing." :)

I just wanted to say thank you once again. You've even inspired me to start my own blog at my website (I'm also using Zenfolio, also in part thanks to you!); while I certainly have little following, I hope that someday it will change.

Again, thank you so much for simply being you.

Sincerely,
Andrew Moline
www.a2mphotography.com
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As I do for everyone who writes to me, I checked out his web site to give him feedback. This kid is doing some really nice work.

Here is the first shot from his web site:

Photo by Andrew Moline

And to know that some of that education and inspiration comes from this blog is a real motivator for me. I know that most people charge subscriptions or make people pay to learn a trade. But money is not the motivating factor behind the blog. It is the amazing stories that I hear every week, from people like Andrew. I understand what he says about the "need" to shoot, and the elation we feel when we capture a great photo. I just wish I had felt this passion at his young age.

How many times in our lives do we get a chance to inspire people all over the world? With the advent of the Internet and social media, information can easily be spread around the globe. I feel lucky to have this forum to share with you all. What started as a blog for my friends and family (to keep up with my travels) has turned into something so much bigger.

And I thank all of you for being a part of this and for sharing your interest in photography.

7 comments:

Cynthia Brown said...

Dear Jeff, This young gentleman, Andrew, has, with excellent writing and grammar, written you a fine tribute. These skills are necessary (besides great photographic mastery) to compete as a professional photographer. I applaud his reaching out and know that he will attain his creative goals. Best wishes, Cynthia Brown

Andrew Moline said...

Thank you so, so much, Jeff!!! It seriously means the world to me.

I appreciate all the very kind and thoughtful e-mails I've already received today. I feel very thankful. I have no words!

Sullivan J Photography said...

Hi Jeff,

I feel the same way! Sometime I'm like...do I really have time for this blog and then I too receive an amazing email or comment that just revives my spirt.

BTW, I enjoy your work too. :)

Unknown said...

You are an inspiration! I love your work and I love learning to implement your tips! I took some shots of my dog this morning and was thinking of all your tips about focusing on the eyes and getting at her level.

Anonymous said...

good job!

caheli said...

I agree. I think it is difficult for anyone keeping a blog to stay connected to the people who read. Many never comment. I think we are all lucky to have this window to your passion and I'm looking forward to being home so I can read your archives.

Juan said...

Buenas tardes Señor Jeff. Soy un fotógrafo de Venezuela, es increíble la manera en la que usted cuenta la historia detrás de las fotos. Ha sido usted muy acertado en esto que hace. Gracias por compartir eso, que a veces vemos imposible, con nosotros.