I don’t usually step up on my soapbox… but I feel the need to now. I am not going to talk about violence, social contracts, civil rights abuses, or war. I have my feelings about all of those, but this is not the place.
What I am going to talk about is the obligation that I share with many others… that of being a photographer and a storyteller. I studied journalism and worked in the field for many years. I left in part because I became frustrated with the path that it was on (and have since become even more frustrated). Journalism is about reporting and discovering the truth, not spewing opinions and repeating the same images repeatedly until they imprint upon the brain.
Many of you reading this website have the knowledge to create. Perhaps its photos, video, or words. You know how to tell a story and show meaning. I challenge you to do so for something that matters.
Right now we have a world that is racing towards ignorance and idiocracy.
Here is my challenge to you. Start showing the world what type of place it can be. Document the good works that happen in your world. Showcase the causes and people that need volunteers and money. Give of your time to help others, but most importantly your talents. Help spread the word through the power of photos, videos, writing, and viviid imagery.
You have talent…. Please start making a difference with it. Choose clients wisely, donate your time and skill where you can. Think before you repost something rooted in hate. The ability for humans to show kindness and compassion still exists.
I know we can be better… I know I can be better.
Please lets start working together to make the world better.
Use the comments below to offer stories you know of or causes that can use help.
Here are a few groups that Ive interacted with that make a difference. You can get involved with them or another.
- Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org
- American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org
- Shelter Me Photography
If you need to find other causes, this site is good at understanding charities and their efficiency in getting their work done.
- Charity Navigator http://www.charitynavigator.org
Simply put… Do something with your talents that makes the world a better place to live.
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Reblogged this on Jesse Gross Photography and commented:
A good message for this Friday morning. Thought that I would share.
Reblogged this on amysomday part 2.
Nice article ! Here is another volunteering organization which helps the local community in the Philippines (part of the GoAbroad foundation) : http://www.visayans.org/ I know for a fact that this group is doing a real difference because I personally participated with my wife to one of their projects. Here are some of the photos that I took during my volunteering experience, which I made available to them: Mohon Elementary School https://secure.flickr.com/photos/pcabot/sets/72157625860054991/ In classroom (Class 6) https://secure.flickr.com/photos/pcabot/sets/72157625985506054/ In classroom (Class 5) https://secure.flickr.com/photos/pcabot/sets/72157625860028989/ What a great experience :) Even though I am an amateur photographer, I believe that we can all make… Read more »
Well said.