It was the 1980’s when I decided I wanted to be a photojournalist. I was 13 years old. The civil war in El Salvador was making headlines and I remember telling my parents that I needed to be there, to record what was happening, to show the world. They’re reaction, naturally was, “But you could get killed!” “Yeah, that’s a possibility” I remember answering back.
Growing up in a small town in New Mexico I didn’t have any personal influences, people to show me the way or lend advice. Instead what I had was Peter Jennings and Linda Ellerbee talking to me from the TV and from books and magazines W. Eugene Smith, Dorothea Lange, Annie Leibovitz, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Weegee and others inspiring me to discover the world.
I sometimes wonder if additional sparks of curiosity didn’t also come from the personal family mish-mash that made me. Mom is Spanish-American, Father is German-American and I was born in Italy due to dad being in the Army. My last name comes from my step-grandfather who was Danish.
I never knew my dad’s real father and barely knew any of my grandparents. Consequently I’ve always struggled to find my identity and one way I do that is by seeking out the identity of the world, attempting to get to know the people around me in a hope of understanding myself.
Since then my life and my photography, because for me they are one in the same, has taken me to numerous cities and states through various staff and freelance gigs. I continue to shoot 35mm film, primarily black & white, but utilize digital as well.
There’s something about film that is raw to me and keeps me focused on the subject for I’ve no digital image to glance at upon clicking the shutter. When photographing a concert I will often shoot 800 speed BW pushed to 2400 or faster, creating an image where the grain becomes as important as the activity itself.
Prior to returning to New Mexico in 2005 I was continuing on the documentary road, working on a personal project titled “Left of Center.” Due to health reasons I’ve had to put that project on the backburner but it is never off my radar and I will resume working in that world again. In the interim I somehow navigated, quite unconsciously I must say, toward nature and landscape photography.
Perhaps because I can ply my craft at a much slower pace? Whatever the reason I have found much enjoyment in photographing Gerbera Daisies, my favourite flower. But in true stubborn fashion I still do my utmost best to photograph local musicians and attend concerts for the simple fact that the energy I get from these events is what propels me onward and reminds me to never give-up.
Links:
http://www.susanseephotography.biz
http://www.flickr.com/photos/susansee/
http://twitter.com/susan_see
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Albuquerque-NM/Susan-See-Photography/107439173950
Inspiring story. I love what you did with that concert photo and what you said about film is so true, that’s why I still love shooting it as well and often attempt to re-create such awesomeness with digital. Thanks for sharing.
That concert shot is fantastic, Susan. The grain really adds to the energy and chaos of the singer’s pose.
It’s fascinating that you thought about being a photojournalist at such an early age, Susan. I checked out your sites and all of your photography is very inspired. I love the concert one in this article. That single photo shows all of the passion the singer has. Nothing like capturing the perfect moment!
Best wishes and good health to you!
This is an excellent story and very inspiring.
I love the perspective of the last photo. It gives me the feeling that i am an insect or a small animal looking up at this huge forest of daisies!
Thanks everyone! I’m now starting a new venture with my photography; making photo pendants. Gotta keep evolving! *lol*
Susan, I like the shot of the dandelions in the field very much – the one that is on the homepage of your site at Susan See Photography
love the rock feel the grain and BW convey..