While I was fortunate to learn many things at the North American Photography Association’s (NANPA) 2009 Summit in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the one that I think I will find the most valuable over the months and years to come ironically had nothing to do with the mechanics of photography. During a break-out session presented by award-winning nature photographer, writer, speaker, and photography instructor Jim Clark, a crucial tip to becoming a successful photographer (and by my extrapolation, at least, successful at anything in life) was offered: “Don’t become a legend in your own mind.”
This is a crucial mistake I have made and it is one that has no doubt impeded my progress in a number of life’s facets. How it happened I’m not entirely certain. I attribute part of it to a natural attitude of arrogance that has been with me since childhood and which I have (at times) struggled to expunge from my personality. Another part of it was possibly the result of being a publicly visible player on the marketing and development team of a world-renowned optics firm; I made the mistake of confusing the value of the team and its abilities – what made and keeps the company great – with my own small contributions. After leaving the firm, I made the mistaken assumption that the firm’s prestige would and had followed me. It didn’t. They are still a global leader in their markets; I am… well, I won’t belabor the point, but as much as they are, I’m not.
In the practice of Zen Buddhism there is a concept called “Beginner’s Mind.” Books have been written upon the idea but in essence it is fairly straight-forward: approach all activities with the enthusiasm and natural humility of a beginner. In many ways, this is not so very far from the admonition of Jesus in Luke 18:17, “Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” When I took up the occupation of writing, and in seeking to improve my photographic skills, I did so with neither Beginner’s Mind nor a child’s open-hearted honest curiosity, hence I am often plagued with petty jealousies and trivial conflicts when I should merely tend to the practice and improvement of my craft.
Thus with my first professional photographer’s conference behind me, I return to the work-a-day world with a pocketful of newly discovered skills to practice and, it is hoped, a corrected perspective on how better to improve my craft as well as perhaps my life.
ForestWander Nature Photography
February 23, 2009 @ 11:55
Hi Friend,
I like your name!
These are some good pictures also.
I would love to attend the NANPA sometime.
I am not a professional but just enjoy creation and taking pictures to Glorify my Savior!
Take care.
Alan
February 24, 2009 @ 09:34
Well said John! I totally agree with you. Great lesson to learn and share. Looking forward to learning more about the photo tips you learned in the workshop.
Grant McCreary
February 24, 2009 @ 19:23
Wow, great post, John.
While many successful people obviously do believe their own hype, I am very surprised at the number who do not, and have the “beginner’s mind”. In my (albeit very limited) experience, the latter seem to be more prevalent among birders, thankfully.
And it’s not just you – I think we all need reminders about this. Thanks for reminding me.
Bruce Haley
February 26, 2009 @ 13:51
Hi John,
Isn’t Jim the greatest? I’ve been the fortunate recipient of Jim’s mentoring over the years and today we co-lead Great American Workshops together. Another thing Jim got me involved in was NANPA…as you’ve discovered…a great organization and today I’m co-chairman of the Regional Events committee. Regional events are like mini-summits where the emphasis is on getting out and shooting, sharing and learning in great environments.
One of the other great lessons Jim taught me was to “pass it on.” Passing it on, I’ve found, makes me a better photographer, a better person and it keeps me grounded. You are doing this through your blogs.
Keep up the great work.
Bruce
Fred Smilek
March 10, 2009 @ 14:05
Mmm…Lindy’s diner. Sounds delicious.
Fred Smilek is the acting president of the Society to Save Endangered Species. It was founded two years ago by Fred Smilek along with his two best friends Charles and Jonathan. http://www.fredjsmilek.com