Joe McNally is not only an incredibly talented photographer but also a really genuinely nice guy, very generous with his knowledge and quick with a joke.
Watching Joe work quite frankly makes my head spin a little. So many things to think about and take into consideration; Joe has been doing it so long that it seems effortless although he assures us that it's not.
One of the best parts of the workshop for me was working with the other photographers, watching them approach the same basic brief [a model shoot] from completely different angles, and sharing in their thought processes. There were definitely some incredibly talented photographers there, both experienced and new to the craft, all trying to create the image in their head.
One thing Joe said that really stuck with me is that "Photography is 90% confidence". Like any creative art, there are so many people ready to tear down your work that it's vital you have the confidence in your own work. Even if it's just to say "I'm just starting out and doing the best I can".
I look back at some of my very early work and cringe - but I knew it was the best I could do at the time. Sometimes we are so focused on how far we feel we still have to go, it's important to look back to see how far we've come.
A good start indeed. :)
Well said Morgana.
ReplyDeleteI spent a full day over xmas looking back at what I'd done in 2011. From the first time wandering into Shutterclass back in Feb, 2011 had been a year of improving .... hoping for the same in 2012 & beyond!
Would love to see some of your McNally workshop images.