A couple of years ago, I think Caeden was maybe 18 months old, I stumbled upon the amazing Barb Uil of Jinky Art Photography. Barb's work moved me so much that I picked up Wayne's camera (he was the camera enthusiast back then) and started to play.
As I become more confident in the look I wanted for my photographs, I begged him to help me move his favorite leather chair outside and onto our lawn so I could take some family pictures. He thought I was a bit crazy, but did it anyway; he loved the final results. Four years ago it was something no one else was doing. And since then I have taken pictures for family, friends, and recently, clients, without holding back.
The (2009) year I decided to go pro was also the year, as you all know, that Wayne was diagnosed with Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma (cancer of the cartilage). I really should have waited to start In the Moment Photography until we knew how Wayne's treatment was going to go, but his encouragement was so strong, he believed in me so much, that he convinced me to go for it.
He was probably tired of me hovering, now that I really think about it.
While I do not work in the winter months, it does not stop me from dreaming of spring and of the families I will photograph. I think of my own, and how they will run around on Easter morning looking for eggs ... but I do not dream of dressing them up and having them pose for the camera. I think of how I will run around, fall to my stomach, and snap pictures of the delight in their eyes when they find a surprise. I will capture the wet grass of Easter morning clinging to bare toes. This is my signal for the new season. A fresh start for all of us.
I will be traveling to a farm in Montana in mid-July to attend a workshop of the very artist who inspired me in those early years. The Jinky Art Workshop is marked on my calendar, and come hell or high water, I am going.
I am going because I want to learn more. To be better. To meet people who share my profession. To be inspired.
And as I write this rambling post, what I really want to say is how much I love Wayne. His encouragement and belief in me has always propelled me to new heights. He has a way of challenging me to always be better. And because of him, I am.
Encourage each other. Always, always.
XOXO
Posts
Val, I hope you guys get out to LA one of these days so I can meet you! -AJ (friend of John & Nicole's)
ReplyDeleteYou are awesome!
ReplyDeleteVal, I told you this before but I love your blog so much! I told Janene the other day that you are always doing something fun. You are such a good mom!! Was thinking that as a gift to Janene and her family I would maybe like to have you take pictures of her family this summer. If we could find a time when Rob is off and you're in Rapid. My email is smusgrave@courts.state.wy.us. Wanted you to know that I keeping Wayne in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteSorry Val I didn't put my name on my comment. Its from Sally Musgrave but maybe you could tell that from the email address. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome opportunity. I love your work and look forward to seeing what an amazing clinic can do for you.
ReplyDeleteLuck you, lucky in love!
Happy Valentines!
*GASP* Where in MT is your workshop? I would love to see you, if you are "in our area." Keep me posted...and I agree, your work is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! You are going to have so much fun!
ReplyDeleteValerie, Valerie, Valerie, you are such an inspiration to everyone that knows you. You find such beauty in life and pass that on. Thank you for providing uplifting, inspirational blogs. I know that what are have gone through and are currently experiencing is not all beauty, yet you find the courage to look for AND FIND the beauty...and that sets you apart from all the rest. If EVERYONE could do that, the world would be a better place. To set aside all the "little" things in life and find what really matters is something that not many can do. Thank you for that! I can't wait to be able to tell people that you are my friend when you are famous! ;)
ReplyDeleteMy love,
Kellie