Zuma
Behold, Zuma.
Zuma is located in north LA, and has some of the best surf around. Unfortunatly my trips up there for the past week have not encompassed surfing…
Zuma is the location of my new and current work opportunity. I recently secured a position as an intern with Steven Lippman. Those of you who do not live in the world of photography, media, art, and design, Steven is a visionary.
I encoutered his work by chance and became enraptured with his ability to create a mood through his imagery. And most of you reading this post, might think “uh… yeah that’s what photography is about.” No. Stop. Just listen.
Being a successful photographer these days is NOT the same as it was 20 years ago. 10 years ago. 5 minutes ago. Today, to be a photographer and make a living doing it, you have to be exceptional. You have to bring to the table what no one else can. You have to be on your game 150% of the time. Sleep– ha, think again. The days of sleeping in, slacking off, and not pushing yourself to every limit fathomable are over. ( I am paraphrasing Steven)
The days of getting coffee for superiors, cleaning desks, walking dogs, doing research, creating the ultimate mental database of creative refenceres—so that one day you will be smarter then some other f@#$- wit trying to out score you. Today it’s about who wants it. How hard they are will to go to get it. And how much talent they can conjure from nothing.
You are/we are our own Entrepreneurs. There are no more careers. We have to make our careers. Blaze a trail, create a path, FIND a way.
And right now, one of my ways of bettering my knowledge, enhancing my abilities, and challenging myself is through this type of work. Mind you— there are bills that have to be paid. And by all means, I am working to tie those ends. But my passion–travel & photography, will never be hindered by the circustances of today.
F@#$ the economy. There is a way to do what you love and sustain a lifestyle. Think outside the box. Be creative. You might even surprise yourself. In the meantime here is some inspiration.
