Creativity, Inspiration and Keeping it Simple - and learning to be ME
5 Years ago this week I was at Societies Convention in London. I was feeling pretty lost in the world of photography at the time, not feeling like I fitted in, especially seeing images like the ones I create not score particularly highly in the print comp. I liked portraits with smiles, energy, happy eyes and lots of colour (and still do) and the prints hanging that year seemed to be dominated by children that just looked kinda miserable. There was a big disconnect for me.
On the recommendation of the lovely Clare Louise, that week I took a seat in a masterclass given by lovely photographer called Tony. I didn’t quite know what to expect, but my goodness did that morning completely change things for me. I cant quite remember what he said, or how it was phrased, but it was along the lines of you can only succeed with your own authenticity. By being you, not trying to be someone else. Even if it means pink boots and watermelon socks... bring it on!! This was the first time I’d heard anything as such, and I suddenly realised that I was trying to be everything and everybody but myself, to fit into the industry I really wanted to be a part of. That’s why it felt wrong.
As Tony continued, talking through his then latest work ‘Girt by Sea’, he explained that after shooting 1,000 weddings and many more portraits, his work had evolved into aerial landscapes, and my goodness, his work was (and is!) just stunning. Photographs that look anything but landscape, that you can look at for ages. And even more stunning in print. Teachings wise, there were more pearls of wisdom, and lots of tears not just from me but from most of those present, and the energy in the room was just magical.
Something shifted in me that day, something had fed the little light of inspiration inside me and the little pieces of confidence I had started to grow. So much so, that with a little mentoring help from the brilliant Kevin Wilson with FRPS and many other accolades to his name, lockdown didn’t slow me down but gave me the opportunity to earn my Associateship qualification within 9 months. Never did I ever think that would have been possible that January!
Last Saturday, I had the chance to sit in one of Tony’s classes again, and it was even bit as magical as the first. Having the confidence to look at things differently, to trust in your ability to do your job and to see and feel things that you might not be able to explain, and to believe in yourself. With another big dose of inspiration and positive energy, this weeks shoots were full of joy. And long may it continue!
Tony Hewitt Grand Master AIPP, FAIPP, FNZIPP, Grand Master Photog. WPPl Icon, thank you for teaching us to believe in ourselves… I feel blessed to have met you and to be around your magic. Thank YOU for being YOU.
I wish you lived closer. Perth is a LONG way!
With love, Rachel xx
Find more about Tony and his work - tonyhewitt.com
Comments