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
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