SHOOTER ON TOUR
Have you ever turned down a commission on ethical grounds? Only once. I had a request where the story was far too risky for the divers and even my abilities. In addition, it was the kind of story that was not respectful of the marine life.
Is there anywhere you haven’ t been you would like to go? Absolutely! There is never enough time to go to all the places on my bucket list. I am interested in getting to the Philippines, it seems incredible that I have never been there. Mozambique is also high on my list.
What tips can you give to any new photographers who are just starting out and want to break into the industry? I often work with young people and I try to mentor as much as possible. North American Nature Photographer Association has a summit every two years and I work with the college student program. I sometimes think I learn more from them than they
Photography is a business like any other and unless you learn the difference between a bed sheet and a balance sheet, you can suffer the consequences of not being able to properly support your business or yourself
do from me. Their enthusiasm and‘ no boundaries’ approach in looking for creative ways to capture an image really inspire me to extend past my old habits. When it comes to advising young photographers, I encourage them to make sure they take basic accounting and marketing classes to understand how to run a business. Photography is a business like any other and unless you learn the difference between a bed sheet and a balance sheet, you can suffer the consequences of not being able to properly support your business or yourself.
I also advise them to find a niche and do it so well that they make a name for themselves, make a mark. I have had several incredibly talented students who today have the respect and assignments they deserve. It makes me so proud to see their images and stories in print.
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