Inspiration: Being an Innovator

In the photography world sometimes things tend to run together. I guess it's like any other area. Take fashion, for instance, there are definitely trends that run throughout the fashion world. There are those who "create" those trends and those who take them and duplicate or integrate them into their own line. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about being inspired by others work and then creating pieces of my own from that inspiration. But, I want to take it to the next level...I want to be an innovator. Honestly, I think we all do at some point or another. None of us sets out and thinks "oh, I can just copy everything so and so does and I'll be successful."

Of course, I want my images to stand out on their own. Of course, I want to have clients seek me out because my images speak to them something that they've wanted for themselves. I also want to be innovative as a business person and as a person in general. I look at people like The Image is Found...and yes, their images are out of this world phenomenal. But, it's them and people like them (i know there are other photographers who are doing this) who are changing the face of the photography industry for the better. No longer is it stuffy, making people uncomfortable, or matchy-matchy....it's fun, it's outside the box, it's life-giving! I believe this is what people are drawn to the most. One of the best compliments I feel like I can get from a family session, is when the dad is having fun too. You know why? Because I know that I'm doing my job well if dad (who is usually the one who hates getting pictures done) feels like this session is different than what he's always known about family pictures.

Also, people like Blue Lily photography and Essential Imagery who are taking family photography on location...in other cities. I love that. I love that wedding photography doesn't have to be the only type that is destination. This is one of the goals I have in my business, and I'm learning a lot from them. No longer is your favorite style or favorite photographer out of reach.

I love how DrewB who does the Momtog blog and even my friends at The Beautiful Mess share what's been given to them. I know there are things that each of us needs to keep as our very "own". But, these guys and so many others out there (Jasmine Star, Jamie Delaine to name a few) are willing to help....to say I've been given so much, let me pour out as well. I want to be like that.

Innovators are inspiring. I want to inspire good things in others as well....other photographers, clients, and people in general.

So, even though this video doesn't have to do with photography....let me inspire you to help for the good of others. Toms Shoes is an innovative and inspiring company...check it out!