We all want that positive reinforcement that we are doing good in this world. Whether it be in the work place, at home, or in a volunteer situation. The positive side of life keeps us moving forward, keeps us learning, and excelling. I do post all the testimonials I receive, but at times I make a connection with a participant that goes beyond that “great job” experience. Their testimonial almost becomes a work of art in itself. When Jose signed up for my Palouse workshop, I realized he was a talented photographer from the visit I made to his website. This is when my job becomes even harder, because I need to then figure out how to improve upon an already talented person’s work. Sometimes it is easy and sometimes it is not. I love photography though, and I love the experiences that I have had over the last fifteen years of my career. And what a better time to share those stories than a workshop situation. Here is Jose’s testimonial written more eloquently than I could ever describe…Let’s just say he doesn’t testify against me. Oh, before I forget, Jose, can I get a model release for this photo?

Dear Jay,

This message to you is a little overdue so please excuse its tardiness; but know that it and my highly positive experience in your workshop has been ever present with me.

As you know, when I signed up for your Palouse workshop, I felt somewhat confident in my technical knowledge of how to capture an image through a camera.  What I was looking for in my career at this point was an experience in an unpredictable “natural” environment, one which would confront me with an unplanned canvas of infinite possibilities and force me to narrow down what’s already in front of me to create an engaging image.  In groups, my creative process tends to cloud since there’s an implied willingness to share images, successes and failures.  Such can be discouraging if not handled appropriately and can cripple one’s process, so I was unsure of what to expect from your workshop.

I found that through your casual conversation and laid-back approach, you built a comfort zone that frees a student to genuinely experiment.  You delivered the knowledge and experience of your craft on a sort of “timed release” basis, rather than a resume-like shopping list that could intimidate.  You observed your students, saw where they were in their process, and offered a hint of direction in technique or tools.  Based on their reception, you gave a little more or a little less.  It didn’t seem like a conscious strategy, it was more an act of respect, and one well received.  Most instructors lecture and provide their strict list of “dos and don’ts” which can contribute to a judgmental and overly self-conscious working environment.  Yet you invited a constructive dialogue through your good humor and pointed storytelling.  And although your students were on different levels of expertise, you found a way to bring them together on the same plane, while still allowing them to advance individually at their pace.

Additionally, I very much appreciated your openness regarding your profession and process, your ability to demystify circumstances and boil them down to reality, practicality, in order to attain the image at stake.  Just you being there making photographs along with us (not to mention later showing us your images during critique) brought the group closer and shaped a structure for support.  I feel that there’s no better way to teach or lead than by example and that’s what you do.

In retrospect it was a short workshop, just three days.  But they were three very full days that allowed for the rehearsal and development of technique to the point where you nearly stop thinking about it.  It became instinctual, reflexive.  And isn’t that how you want to react when Bigfoot stomps across your picture plane?

Thanks for demonstrating your dedication and passion for photography through your work and teaching style.  It’s contagious and inspiring and it has stuck with me.  And my photography in the subsequent days has been all the better for it.  I look forward to the opportunity to put our heads together on a project someday.  Take care of yourself and I wish you much success in your endeavors.

All the best,

Jose M. Cabrera