Seriously, people... I am NOT a Photographer!

Ok, so that title is a bit misleading. Please do me a favor and read it again, but this time add a dash of obvious denial to the voice inside your head.

Whether traveling to different mission projects through the Presbyterian Mission Agency or capturing Red Cross aid workers during disaster relief operations, photography and videography have played a large role in my life for the past several years. But, whenever someone in the past has asked me about my job, I would always find a way to avoid labeling myself a photographer.

Nevermind that DSLR and serious look, that dude is definitely not a photographer.

In fact, I still get a bit flustered (irrationally, I admit) when I have to tell someone what I do, because it seems anyone armed with a DSLR and the ability to press the shutter-release button can claim to be a photographer and that's only a small part of what I actually do .. blah.. blah.. blah.

Ok, so... I understand how absolutely elitist and cynical that sounds, trust me. And since I don't want be forever labeled "a cynical elitist" upon my inevitable death, (and because, seriously who cares?!)  this is my coming-out moment; it's finally time I accept that I've been a total butthead about this issue, swallow the bitter pill of pride, take a big step into the light, and say once and for all: I'M A PHOTOGRAPHER, DAMNIT!

Now, whether or not I'm any good at being a photographer, that's up to y'all. But, I feel better already..haha. 

Have a great weekend, everybody :)

-jw