Leaning in.
#080
I recently worked on an assignment for NPR about Black Lung. The story was published a few days ago (you can read and listen to it here). I always appreciate editors who reach out because they’ve seen my work and invite me to bring my style and vision to an assignment.
No matter how many times I’ve done this, I still worry about making work that lands well with both the editorial team and the audience. Of course, the most important thing is always to make work that honors the people and places that invite me in and that they, too, can be proud of and seen. Still, I doubt myself. A lot.
As photographers, I think it’s important that we understand what editors ask of us, but that we stay open and true to our creative spirit. In fact, I think that’s often what leads editors to us. I want to encourage you (and remind myself) to stay open to hearing what your creative voice is saying to you and to trust it. And to trust the process (as cliché as that may sound).
Thanks for coming to my TED talk.
The fawns are getting bigger, but still sticking close to their momma. Yesterday morning, I was able to make a few pictures of them grazing in the front yard with my new (to me) telephoto lens. More on that later (maybe).
As always, thanks for reading this newsletter! I appreciate your likes, comments, and shares. And thanks in advance for sharing it with someone you think might like it.
Lean in,
- Roger
"As photographers, I think it’s important that we understand what editors ask of us, but that we stay open and true to our creative spirit." I love this, and wholeheartedly agree! (And, I've been tracking about 5-6 fawns this summer as well. They were dancing all over the backyard, with Momma close by, the other evening. Fun to watch!)
i think your take about working with editors -- giving what they ask for but bringing your own unique creative style to the work -- is spot on These images make me long for home. :-)