Lens-Artists Challenge #160 – Inspiration
“In their biographies, artists like Michelangelo, da Vincci and Bach said that their most valuable technique was their ability to inspire themselves.”
Ralph Gibson
Inspiration – we all seek it, we find our own ways to achieve it, and we surely recognize its importance. Unlike the artists in my opening quote, I’ve not been the best at self-inspiration. For me, it is the company or encouragement of others that often inspires me. Whether in a class, working with other members of our local photography club, or simply out shooting with friends, I’m inspired by the company of those I respect and whose friendships I cherish. My opening image, for example, was captured this spring in an outing with a good friend during a visit to nearby Middleton Plantation.
“Photography is food and inspiration to the artist.”
Max Dupain
I’ve been fortunate to participate in classes and photo shoots with many renowned professional photographers thanks to my association with the Kiawah Photography Club. I am always inspired by their commitment and talent as well as their generosity in sharing their thoughts and expertise with us. I also find it inspiring to help others. My image above for example, was captured as I was showing a good friend how to make the most of portrait mode on an iPhone.
“My goal as a person and as a photographer is to …share the precious gift of thought and inspiration we are all endowed with.”
Guy Tal
In the same outing as my previous image, I was drawn to the purple hair of the artist above. She was photographing LA’s beautiful Getty Museum garden as well as sketching it. I captured her silently from behind, then introduced myself and asked if she’d mind my photographing her. She laughed that I should be interested in her and happily complied. My favorite image of all though was my first, the candid capture shown above.
“Take inspiration from everywhere. Be aware of everything.”
Lee Widdows
I enjoyed focusing this week on a personal inspiration, and invite you to visit my previous post on the subject about some of the other things that inspire me. I’m looking forward to seeing what inspires all of you. Be sure to link your response to Patti’s original post here and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to appear in our WP Reader section.
I’ll close this week by joining Lens-Artists team member and this week’s host, Patti of Pilotfish, in acknowledging and offering heartfelt thanks to our Guest Hosts this past month. John Steiner, Anne Sandler, Rusha Sams, Beth Smith and Ana Campo did us proud with their creative and thoughtful challenges. We also, of course, thank all of our followers for your continued support and participation. We look forward to returning to our normal schedule and hope to see you next week when Ann-Christine leads our challenge. Until then, as always please stay safe and be kind.
Travels and Trifles 
Michelangelo, da Vincci and Bach
Love the Mellow Yellow shot
Taking inspiration from you always 🙂
wonderful shots!! U have inspired me to use the protrait mode on my phone more often…melloe yellow is gorgeous with its interesting background!!
Ps
The little sparkle shoe with the petals – I thought those were discarded wet wipes – hahaha – has to be COVID priming
LOL
Has to be a COVID connected priming kind of thought –