I just wrapped up a couple days in Las Vegas for Photoshop World, which is always a whirlwind show (of amazingness). I gave eight presentations over the course of two days, which was great fun. But I also had a chance to catch up with good friends George Lepp and Jeff Greene.
Those of you who already have a copy of my latest book, Take Your Best Shot, might have noticed that the book was dedicated to George Lepp. In most cases it can be challenging to decide who to dedicate a book to, but in this case it was easy. I started my free Digital Darkroom Questions email newsletter (where I answer questions related to digital imaging, and which was the inspiration for the book) while I was working with George. In fact, many of the things I do to earn my keep today found their source while I was working with George.
I was able to give George a signed copy of the book at Photoshop World, and thank him in person for all he had done to help me. Having this opportunity reinforced the value of looking back on where we’ve come from to help figure out where we’re going. It seems the future comes into more clear focus when you can look back and contemplate what worked and what didn’t, and how you got where you are right now.
For me, looking back gives me greater perspective on how my photography has transitioned over the years, and how the changes in my shooting style have (I hope) improved my photography. It also gives me some perspective on the various ways I’ve been teaching photographers how to best utilize digital tools in photography, so I can better appreciate what approaches work best, and which aren’t particularly helpful. We’re a product of our past, and by looking back I think we can make our future better.
I tend to think about how I can produce better books, better newsletters, better workshops, and better anything-else-I-decide-to-focus-my-energy-on in working to help photographers produce better results. How do you look back to improve your photography and digital imaging?
Â
