Beauty in an unexpected corner of Papeete, French Polynesia

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Wednesday, September 28, 2011 | 5 photos

As an adventurous, artistic, academic and fearless 36 year old American, I dream unbelievable dreams, yet live the reality of life as a healthcare consultant most of my days. I’ve found my biggest smiles truly emerge when I’m with animals (the non-human variety), on a trip involving my passport, and/or simply holding my camera. I try and experience these moments as often as possible, traveling frequently, often alone, camera in tow. When I’m able to combine all three smile-catchers, that’s the ultimate dream-life. This contest is an opportunity to redesign my reality. I’m ready for change, and I have the unique eye you seek and the ambition and work ethic you require.

I believe in capturing the soul through photography, often by engaging my subject creatively. If that means playing tag with 10 children until you’re dripping sweat while all other tourists are listening to a guide, that works for me. Three o’clock in the morning at the waterhole? Sign me up. I often share my photos after a trip and get the reaction of “I didn’t even see that...” To be able to create art in a way that can touch people, to experience a scene like it’s never been seen before -- that’s incredible. Hopefully my submitted photos of a joyous church scene in Papeete, French Polynesia, will stir something in the judging panel. The results were due to courage, persistence, a little luck and some adorable children.

I want to grow, to learn from an expert, to share and to see through new eyes. I want to continue to explore our world, to feel the high of “the perfect shot,” to experience new cultures, to experiment with techniques... I want to bring my perspective, my creativity, my color. I will work hard, with respect and a great attitude. South Africa, Jason, here I come!