Just recently, a colleague of mine manifested her holy grail.
She had always dreamt of being a real sports photographer. She started off small, shooting kids’ sports events and honing her craft until she knew she had the highest level of technical skill.
She tapped, meditated, and envisioned herself as a big-time, big-deal sports shooter, and one day she met the person who was the missing link. The person who noticed her passion, vibed with her energy, appreciated her skill, and had the access to make her dream a reality. She’s now traveling the world, shooting UFC events to her heart’s content.
It got me thinking: what is my holy grail? If I could photograph anyone in the world right now, who would it be? It was hard to believe that I had never asked myself this question before. BAM. A name came so immediately, so forcibly, I had to take note and listen.
The name surprised me. It really shocked me. It wasn’t someone I had ever thought about a great deal. I didn’t even follow her on Instagram. I can only name one of her songs, if that’s even the title, and I’ve never read her book or listened to her podcast. So why on f***ing earth is she my holy grail? It was puzzling.
The only thing I could identify is that I like the energy she throws out. I like that she’s doing big things in what seems to be an extremely authentic way. I like that she’s Canadian, 63, and just owning her life in a big bold way.
And there it was. The reason. The entire reason for this whole career of mine. I crave sharing space with people. Real people. The ones who have faced adversity in their life, challenged the “f*** me” moments, and come out the other side stronger, more willing to show up as who they are and live vibrantly.
That’s it. That’s the why of this whole journey. So brace yourself, Jann Arden. I’m manifesting my way into having you in my studio. Not because I idolize or worship you. Not because I’m obsessed with your music. But because I just like the thought of sharing space with you and hearing your story. You’re a 60-year-old Canadian woman living in your power and truth, successfully feeding your family doing it. The odds were kinda against you. This is a story I want to hear. A face I want to study. A beauty I want to record.
The coolest realization? I’m already kinda living my holy grail. Do you know how many inspiring people I photograph? The ones who have fought through all the bullshit and come out the other side thriving? Those seem to be my clients and they manage to find me all the time.
How lucky am I? I’m over her living my dream almost every day.
Big Love,
Nicole
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