self-discovery

Last month I traveled to Haiti with a non-profit organization to document the re-opening of two primary schools that were devastated by the 2010 earthquake. I knew that the experience would be somewhat extraordinary. That as soon as I would land the fears that had been keeping me awake for many many nights would disappear. That I would learn, and hopefully thrive as a photographer. And delight in the discovery of a new culture.

And although my understanding for this country has shifted, and I now have a much better sense of appreciation for life, and respect for photographers who are in the field serving the stories of those in front of the lens, I am mostly grateful for the way this experience has uncovered many layers of my personal story, and helped me discover what I am capable of, what I'm passionate about, and who I truly am. 

Today share with us. What did photography make you discover about yourself?

on my way back home

There is gratitude during those minutes following a long day of work. A lesson in cultivating a spirit of self-love, and acknowledging the things that are important to me. It's a bit strange. I cannot wait to go back to the ones I love and yet very much enjoy feeling that sense of completion, of connectedness with my self.

For the past few weeks I've developed a habit of taking photos on my way back home. I love how they reflect those moments in between the many demands and commitments of daily life, and remind me to slow down, and give thanks for everything that happens to me.

How about you? Do you have those moments during morning or evening commute? If yes, do you pull your camera and capture them? Please share with us today.

the six questions featuring Bonnie Tsang

Image Copyright Bonnie Tsang

I remember coming across L.A. based lifestyle and wedding photographer Bonnie Tsang's blog a few months ago, and instantly falling in love with the way she approaches life, natural and real, and shares her passion for art, design and food with a most delightful sense of style, simplicity, beauty and attention to details.

Bonnie is one of the most creative, talented and hard-working photographers I know of, and a most awesome mother who inspires me to keep doing what I love and enjoy life the fullest. I am most happy and excited to share with you her answers to our Six (actually Eight!) Question interview today.

1. What's the story behind this photo?

It was taken almost two years ago. My photography business started to do well at the time, but I found myself having less time with my daughter, Venise. So one free Sunday, she and I decided to spend a day together and took a short road trip to Joshua Tree. We stayed until sundown. I took a picture of her collecting and putting little rocks into her shorts' back pockets as the sunset light glowing behind her.

2. What was it that lit your photography spark? Do you remember a particular camera, course, person, roll of film?

My Dad was a professional photographer before I was even born, so I grew up with photography. But what really got me started was this doll called Blythe (http://www.blythedoll.com) and my daughter, Venise. I took one shot and that was it, I couldn't stop.

3. What's your photo philosophy? Does it reflect your life philosophy?

My photo philosophy is simple - to capture and report the reality. I always believe art was created to document life's important events. And that probably does reflect to how I see life - live your truest self.

4. Where do you look for inspiration?

Family and friends that I surround myself with. We often go far and beyond to look for ourselves, for inspirations, but the truth is we have it all within ourselves.

5. What would you say is one of your 'signature' editing tricks, themes or style? What do you think makes an image recognizable and uniquely yours?

This is actually a tough question for me and I always get asked this! It's tough for me to answer because... how do you turn your feelings into words? There's no word for feelings, something that's untouchable.  We might say, "Oh, I love that person because she's nice, she's pretty", but it's not, it's MORE than that. I don't edit images base on what is "Bonnie Tsang" because I'm always revolving. Maybe I'll know in 20 years.

6. What aspect of your photography are you constantly working on, trying to improve?

Everything.

7. If you could go anywhere in the world for an epic, weeklong photo excursion all by your luxuriously unhurried self - regardless of money, time or childcare issues - where would you go and why?

My hometown, Hong Kong. I went few years ago and, sadly, I wasn't really into photography at the time, so it'd be nice to go back.

8. Are there women out there that you consider your shutter sisters? Who, and why?

There are two ladies that I look up to personally and professionally - Carrie Cook and Jen Gotch. They're both my very good friends and they've been around shooting a lot longer than I have been, but they're always very encouraging. Sometimes when I'm stuck at something, whether it is about life or photography, they'd say to me "you can try this" or "how about if you do this". They challenge me to do better in the most nurturing way. And of course, their work is amazing!

Thank you so much Bonnie!

You can see more of Bonnie's work on her personal blog, professional blog, portfolio, and if you're on Instagram you absolutely HAVE to follow her @bonnietsang.

unexpected inspiration

Photo inspired by Sharon Montrose's wonderful Tails series.

"How do you persuade an energetic infant monkey to pause long enough for a photograph? You don't. "I put the camera in front of him, let him do whatever he wanted and tried to capture his natural charm."

Sharon Montrose is one of my favorite photographers. And though I have no intention of becoming an animal photographer, the creativity, the sense of passion and playfulness that she brings to her work inspire me every day.

How about you? Is there a photographer whose style couldn't be more different than yours or than what you aspire to and yet whose work inspires you? War photographers, humanitarian, documentary photographers, fashion photographers, food photographers, sport photographers?

Today share with us.

let nature be your teacher

"Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher. " - William Wordsworth

I was the first person coming down the slopes. The one who would stop every 5 minutes just to take in the glorious landscape or lie down on the freshly fallen, cushy snow. And some days the wind blowing on my face would move me to tears. Spending time in nature, whether in the mountains or at the beach, is always a humbling, exhilarating experience that reminds me to slow down, delight in the simple things in life, embrace the unknown and live each moment wholeheartedly.

Today share with us how nature inspires you. Share what nature teaches you.