why do we do it?

been asking that question a lot recently. why do we do what we do? for recognition? fame? popularity? money?

in my little corner of the world, i always thought it was to tell the story, to show what is not normally seen, to let others live vicariously through the pictures that we bring back. maybe i was naive, maybe deluded, but the more i look, the less i seem to see that sort of spirit among the photographers here.

of course that is a bad stereotype, for i can think of quite a few who are still committed to the abovementioned values. and yet, i get this unsettling feeling, that even some in the inner sanctum have lost that idealism, that drive. it almost seems like it's all about who gets published more, in which publications, who has books, exhibitions, big projects, rich clients etc. in short, it's becoming like any other profession, a rat race to the finish, collecting as many prizes, certificates, awards, and additions to the already burgeoning resume along the way.

the idealism seems gone for many, replaced by the harsh realities of elking a subsistance out of this chosen profession of ours, but i am sure there is a way to balance the two.

i just hope i don't succumb and fall to the wayside like so many of my peers. that, i cannot, must not, allow.