I am a middle-aged woman (my kids tell me I have come up one side of the hill and for this year am perched on the top...next year I'll be heading over the hill) embarking on a career change into photography. With children grown and married, and grandchildren growing up, I rediscovered my interest in photography.
I have been interested for a few years, but only seriouslly involved for 2 years, improving over the last year with experience. What has really helped me is the mentoring of other photographers. Don't overlook the advice of your mentors and peers. I think the love photography must be in my blood - my dad had a great interest in photography and took some great photos. I inherited some of his old camera equipment and it's taken off from there.
Now, instead of old film, I use digital - starting off with a very unflexible 2 mp. p&s, moving in a few months to a more flexible 3.2 mp Nikon coolpix; a few months after that purchased Nikon's D70 along with an AF 70-300mm zoom lens. Less than a year later I am using Nikon's new D200, having gained additional lenses (total of 4 now) and the SB-600 speedlight, among other fun accessories. Some of the people who have mentored me, or pushed me to become better - Keith Skinner (amazing wildlife photographer) and Laurin Rinder (all around great photographer, even if he is a little crusty sometimes.).
My images have been used in many places - over the internet, and published in magazines; used as the basis for artists paintings and in government publications, in stock photography and portfolios.
My inspiration comes mostly from the world around me. God created so many beautiful things, how could you help but produce a beautiful picture? From His hands comes the glorious sunset or the soaring eagle, from His breath comes the spirit of joy in a child's face. I just push the button.
The photographer's I admire - Eugene Smith, Margaret Bourke-White, and of course Ansel Adams. Why? For the determination to succeed. Their work and lives have taught me that if I want to, I can succeed too. Maybe I won't ever have famous images, or be famous myself, but success isn't limited to fame. If I can coax the images out of the camera as my eye and mind sees them, then I have fulfilled my vision. That is success.
many blessings Gracey
Photography of Grace
All Gracey's images