On Stories

My Scholarship entry - Desert Glow

USA | Thursday, November 20, 2014 | flickr photos

I love stories.

It started early; with little to do in the tiny, rural town in which I grew up, my friends and I made our own fun. We ran through the woods, imagining that we were mythical heroes. We scaled roofs, reveling in the peril of ascent. Trees became giants ready to crush us; houses became mountains ripe for conquering; lakes became oceans awaiting exploration.

At night, we would collapse inside, tired and hungry, and recount tales of the day’s conquests. The adventures were amazing; but the legends were immortal.

Soon, I began telling stories with photos. I traveled extensively, my camera always at my side. I was fascinated by light and the deep emotions it could conjure.

I’m self-taught, and have spent hours poring over photography websites. I’ve taken lots of photos, but have much room to grow. Many shots don’t work; I have especial difficulty capturing the stories of people. It’s hard to navigate the balance of authenticity and technicality required to portray a life.

One day, I hope to create a travel photography writing website to share my stories with others. This trip would help me refine my storytelling; I know that Jason would be an invaluable mentor.