At first glance, you wouldn’t think this photo represents achievement. But there’s a story behind it, like with many great photos.
I’ve been interested in photography for a long time. The first job I remember wanting was a photographer for National Geographic. A pretty sophisticated dream for a 7-year-old, eh?
When I was 14, I did a weeklong photography program at Oregon College of Art and Craft and completely fell in love with the medium.
One of our assignments was a self-portrait, and I struggled. A lot. I took lots of shots and wasn’t happy with any of them. Nothing would come out the way I wanted.
Then I got this shot. I liked it well enough to submit for critique. My teacher pulled it up on the screen.
I heard a murmur of “cool.” Somebody else said that they liked it. Someone wished it had been closer up.
My teacher said it reminded him of photographer Annie Leibovitz’s fantastical style, and that it was successful. That I was successful.
I don’t remember the teacher’s name or what he looks like, but I’d say that those words are probably half the reason I’m still taking photos today. I’ll never forget feeling such a strong sense of achievement and pride in my work.
Victim to Charm 
whimsical wonder
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Thanks!
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Beautiful! It has a somewhat fairytale like feel to it as well. The right compliments can be very influential ☺️ keep snapping!
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Thank you!! I agree that support is hugely important to motivation.
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Really gorgeous! Very professional and timeless!
When one does what loves, these are the results!
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Thanks for your kind words Lucile :)
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It’s gorgeous. I had to write that down ’cause every time I scrolled through the posts, this specific picture would always hold my gaze. Good job!
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Thank you so much!
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Three things: 1. LOVE THIS POST 2. LOVE THAT PHOTO 3. What the heck I’ve wanted to work for Nat. Geographic my who life almost holy CRAP
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THANKS GIRL and also stop the similarities in our lives are too much sometimes.
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You have reason to be proud, it really is a terrific shot Sabina. Mood, texture, emotion all of the key elements of an outstanding photograph are there. Well done :-)
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Thank you so much! I really appreciate your feedback :)
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It is beautiful!
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Thank you!
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Wow. Such a lovely picture.
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Thanks dear!
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I love this photo! I kind of have a similar story to photography as well too! I added you on LinkedIn. I hope that’s not creepy. My sister is studying speech pathology in graduate school actually! :) She loves it.
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Thank you! I’d love to hear your story! And it’s not creepy, no worries. I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with speech but that may change over the years :)
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