So, what inspired me to begin and keeps inspiring me to take up photography?
My inspiration comes from a few sources. Obviously, my foundation is my family, religion, and friends. I feel those three entities keeps me going with my photography. Before my mother bought Kodak EasyShare point and shoot cameras for us Christmas 2007, I seldom took pictures. I missed special moments that I can only relive through my memories of special events, happy times, and well...loved ones that have passed. I don't have many pictures of my family with my father. That is something that have and will always bother me. The last picture that I have with all of us was taken in 2002; four years before he passed away. I wish that I had taken more pictures so that I would have those pictures to treasure. What I am left with is memories of those times. I have a few pictures, but I would bank to say that the last picture that I have with my father was taken in 2003 when he came to Centre to watch my football game. I am almost in tears thinking about that day as it took all my friends, family, and girlfriend at that time to plan the special event to "make my dream come true." In that picture, he had a shirt that had the phrase, "Think BIG." Because of this, I made a vow to myself that after my mother got me a camera that I would not go without capturing memories of special events, my family, and friends.
In 2009, I made the move to Eastern Kentucky in search of growth and an opportunity. Although that course took a different path with a few detours along the way and bump and bruises, I would never have foreseen that I would have taken an increase interest in photography like I have. When I first got to Eastern Kentucky, I wanted to share with my family the sights and my adventures. From there, my photography seemed to blossom as I met special people that had roles in supporting my hobby from increasing my confidence to take pictures, assisting with technicalities, offering key advice, or urging me to upgrade cameras. It also helped that as I grew with my professional career, I was able to incorporate my hobby into the workplace by capturing special events at work. This allowed me to continue to practice and learn various skills with photography. The picture below is one that was taken at work as we were trying to take a picture for a pamphlet.
Another key inspiration for me is my religion. Going to places like Pine Mountain Settlement School, Cumberland Gap, Pine Mountain, Natural Bridge, Cave Run Lake, Great Smoky Mountains, Wood Creek Lake, Cumberland Falls, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Bernheim Forest provide opportunity for me to connect with my spirituality and realize how great a God we serve. There is nothing like seeing a his love be real through nature. There is a level of peace that comes with that spiritual connection.
Finally, my friends are an inspiration for me. While in Eastern Kentucky, I was not able to be around my friends as much due to living 2-3 hours away from them. Therefore, I wanted to capture the times that we shared together because that provided me with comfort when I felt alone or homesick. I would look through the pictures and reminisce about the fun times we had. Also, it was a good way to share with each other the times that shared together. I also have to note that my girlfriend has had a great impact with my growth as a photographer. It helps to have a participant willing to strike a pose and look good at it. :)
So, I hope this answers the question about what inspires me to take and keep taking pictures. The motto on the shirt that my dad wore in one of the last pictures, if not the last picture, says it best, "Think BIG". I want to be able to capture the adventures, special moments, and special people in my life so that down the road I won't regret missing out on these times.
Congrats, Mr. Parker! Continue to "Think Big". Enjoy seeing your posts and the many places you've been.
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