I didn’t set out to be a photographer… it just sort of happened.
I suppose it’s possible that I do what I do because my father was a passionate artist. Or perhaps it’s just simply because I love looking at things a little differently than most… I can’t say for sure. What I CAN say, is that I really love this art called photography, and I spend a lot of time refining, perfecting and even obsessing over my work… it is truly a passion.
Since 1997, I’ve been involved with video editing. Nearly everything from motion pictures and trailers to documentaries, and photo montages to weddings. I thought that video would be the one thing that I could passionately pursue, but after developing the courage to commit to it, photography has become a genuine part of my life, and I had to make some room to squeeze that in there as well, so now I have two. Fortunately, photo and video often work hand in hand. I just wish I had an extra set of hands to do them both simultaneously, sometimes.
I have spent a lot of time reflecting on my “style” of photography. But I think more important than style, is being aware of the not just the literal nature of the image I see, but striving to go beyond the aesthetic sense and bring out the raw genuineness of it to create a captivating image. I try to think outside of the box in my compositions, and strive to better not only my skills, but myself as well, with every image I capture. Photography has allowed me to expand my heart and capacity to extents that I never knew existed.
I have a mentor in life… Daisaku Ikeda. And how he has summarized the mission of a photographer, will forever be the backbone of my journey behind the glass. As he states: “What makes a first-class photographer? It is the love of people. What makes for moving photos? It is the courage to take a step forward.”
And just as my father’s passion to express his life through his paintings and sculptures have inspired me, I hope my own actions and contributions will inspire others to become passionate, courageous and to never give up in pursuing their dreams!
- Mike
