Inspiration Might Be Behind You

I have had many jobs and multiple careers, and I once worked as a part-time photographer. I occasional had to cover public events, like a fashion show or a concert. I’d get there early to grab my spot, but I quickly realised that competition was hot and all the other photographers pushed and shoved to get the best shots.

I was never very competitive, and the frenzy was too much for me. On one occasion I gave up. As I extricated myself from the crowd I wondered what I’d see if I looked in the opposite direction, away from the action.

As I scanned the background I saw a lot that interested me. That first time I got a shot of a known figure resting on a door frame, lit by a shaft of sunlight. It wasn’t the shot the editor wanted, but I sold it anyway. It also pointed me in a direction I was far more comfortable with, and I started looking for unusual photographic opportunities by looking the wrong way.