Community is the Coolest.

It’s been a while since I’ve blogged, so I thought I’d hop on and fill you in on what’s going on in the photo world I try and live in. A LOT of people are posting pictures of all this gorgeous snow that Little Rock got…BUT…I live in Arkadelphia, and we got rain. A boatload of rain. :/

But today was a great day. Ever since I’ve started out trying to find my way in the photography world, there’s been one noticeable aspect missing: community. I always felt like in an artistic arena, community and gaining information and inspiration from other people would be essential, but it was no where to be found. Then, Help-Portrait came along. I signed up for the Little Rock outreach of it, headed up by Grant Harrison. A few people were on the list of participants, so I decided to do what college students do best…..Facebook Stalk. I already knew Grant, but added another couple guys, including Eli. Eli’s always been incredibly friendly on Facebook and Twitter as well, and it’s been awesome to get to chat as time has gone on.

A week or so ago, Eli sent me a FB invite for a photog lunch meetup. So what did I do? I skipped a few classes (SHHHH!) and went. It was a blast to be able to sit and have a meal with people who live in this world full time and don’t raise a haughty nose at someone in college or not full-time! Fun meal, made great connections, learned plenty, and just had great community.

Community, though, isn’t limited to artistic expression. The same yearning for connection has been in a lot of aspects in life. So, here’s my challenge, a rhetorical one. What community are you a part of that challenges you and stretches you? Being challenged is the best way to grow, so look for areas that physically, artistically, spiritually, or mentally challenge you to go a step higher than where you are now. Community is the coolest.

Oh…and yes, a picture! Here’s a shot that Emma took of me during that photobooth set up on campus! I’m excited at the inquiries from businesses, parties, and weddings that I’ve gotten for it. Let me know if you’d want to book one for your next event!