I feel like the purpose to life is making a difference in someone else’s. Often it is tempting to make it about you but when it comes down to what would I be thinking about if I were on my death bed, it would be about the kind of person I was to others.
When I chose to be a wedding photographer, I thought my contribution as a career would be simply geared toward my brides, grooms, and their families. I get to provide them with memories for the rest of their lives, and that’s pretty cool!
It took a while to realize I also have the possibility of inspiring others. As a by product of expressing myself on this blog and sharing work online, I started getting positive emails. I got asked to speak at a local middle school for Career Day. I had a casting agent contact me about a documentary series – they were looking for passionate photojournalists. I’ve received really nice messages from highschoolers telling me they are pursuing photography because they came across my blog.
You might not be aware of it, but you have an impact on other people ALL the time. From a 3 second interaction with someone at the grocery store to writing a blog post, all the little things you do (and don’t do) contribute to others.
Overall, I think if you do and share what is important to you, it’s good for you and it’s good for everyone else. Not everyone will like what you have to offer, but you’ll attract the ones that see the world similarly.
Share what you are passionate about. Show appreciation. Flash a smile at a stranger.
What are some ways that you contribute to others?
AWESOME!! =)
absolutely perfect!
And you charge $7K to make that difference in someone else’s life. That’s not “contribution” — that’s selling your services.
Don’t get me wrong, you’re a great photographer, but you’re not a saint.
Hi Sue. Everyone is allowed to his/her own opinion and I thank you for yours. To me, contribution has nothing to do with money and there is nothing negative about someone hiring you if they want your services. Contribution is simply about sharing what you love to do. All the best.
Please. You’re not SHARING what you love to do, you are SELLING what you love to do, to the highest bidder, who can afford $7k for photography. And your blog is an advertisement.
I never said there was anything negative about that — you were the one who used that word.
And all the best to you too.
I think it’s fair to say that what one does for a living is part of what you contribute to the world. If you’re an logistics manager you contribute order. If you’re a medical researcher you contribute information for new treatments. If you’re a writer maybe it’s ideas. Your actions change the world (even if it’s just a little bit) and Christine’s photos and sharing of photo knowledge change the world in a positive way.
It’s a pity there will always someone that tries to turn something positive into something negative.
Thank you Christine for your inspiration! I’m currently married and will never be in use of your services. However, reading your blog has taught me to be more positive. For that alone, I am very greateful.
Keep up the good work!