missloukins's journal

My Photo scholarship 2010 entry

Morocco | Monday, October 11, 2010 | 4 photos

A day spent in the crowded alleyways of Fes, Morocco is a chaotic, captivating and mind-altering experience. To be understood, words must have significance to us. But a smile, a look of hostility, a pair of grief-stricken eyes; these all transcend the boundaries of verbal communication. These images reflect only a few of the faces that can be found in the medina- faces I was never able to converse with, yet learned from all the same.
When I graduated high school I had plans to attend Brooks Photography Institute to study visual journalism. Yet with the knowledge that I had no available financial aid to help me through Brooks, a scholarship offer to my current university was too great to refuse. I have no regrets; I am currently studying theology and am inspired daily by different cultures and religions. In learning the ways we vary as human beings, however, I am continuously reminded of my dream to photograph life in all of its eccentricities.
I believe in a photography that captures people’s attention. Throws them off balance. Causes them to ask questions. Photography has such incredible potential to expand knowledge and appreciation of the unfamiliar. I know this, because that is exactly what it did for me. It is my hope that I will someday be able to instill that same passion in others. To gain experience that teaches me not only the techniques required in capturing amazing images, but also the patience and logistics of working in the field.
An opportunity such as this would link my current studies with the passion for photography that I have not yet had the chance to see through. It would enable me to cultivate an ability to take photos that draw attention, spark curiosity and seek to change the presuppositions of others.