So many of you may have heard that I was lucky enough to go to Vegas for the WPPI convention. Basically it was a gathering of 15,000+ photographers. It’s the first time had the opportunity to attend and I have to say it was one of the most beneficial trips I have made for photography. I left there refreshed and inspired. The first day I arrived I heard Audrey Woulard speak. Most of you may not know her, but I have followed her for 5 years now. When I was looking for studio space I wanted a space just like hers in Chicago. Hers is a natural light studio/loft with exposed brick walls. When she showed her work she showed all outdoor and location photographs and explained that she hated her studio and especially the exposed bricks. Funny… because after 3 years of shooting in my space I feel so limited in there and would rather be outside.
The following day was worth the price of admission because I was able to attend the class of Jesh de Rox . Single handedly his images made me laugh and cry all at the same time. I left his class so inspired and so in love with photography. It didn’t matter who I attended next, they were not going to live up to the experience I had with him. I left there changed. Later that day I saw him and Jose Villa standing by the stairs just talking like normal people and I was starstruck. I walked by them and stared not knowing whether to go up there and hug them, or just say thanks for being an inspiration. I can only compare it to what my nine year old daughter might do if she ever saw Justin Bieber. Seriously, those two men are two reasons I strive to be a better person and photographer. They are incredible.
And finally, I got to see Elizabeth Messina . I had not heard of her before the convention, but I looked her up and fell in love with her photos. When I heard her speak I could relate to her on so many levels. She is shy and quiet. Many of you may never have pegged me as shy, but I was painfully shy as a child and I work hard to open up in front of people, especially strangers. The camera helps break down some of the walls but it is something I struggle with daily.
The biggest buzz was created by Jasmine Star . When you look up the definition of cool, Jasmine’s picture is there. I follow her on a daily basis. I think we could be sisters, well she could be my cooler younger sister because I’m kinda dorky. Her photography, the way she writes and the way she relates to everyone just captures you. I strive to be a better writer and she gives me inspiration to do that.
I’ve included links to all of my favorite photographers from this trip. The re-invention of Marie Q has begun and I can thank this list of international photographers for it.
Be Good!
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