Why I Photograph

Resting Place, Norfolk, Botanical Gardens, Norfolk, VA

www.dennismook.com is my website with many of my images.  Please, check it out.  Thank you.

A few years back, I came across this statement of purpose from artist Daniel Cautrell.  I was intrigued enough by his words that I saved it.  What do you think about how it pertains to your photography or other endeavors?

Statement of Purpose

I do the work because I want to.
I do the work because I like to.
I do the work because I know how.
I do the work to explore myself.
I do the work to engage others with thought, word, and deed.
I do the work because I have something to say.
I do the work because I have seen something beautiful.
I do the work because I have seen something ugly.
I do the work to be the kind of person I want to be.
I do the work to earn money.
I do the work to stay when I must go.

                                     Daniel Cautrell

After reading his words, I started asking myself what it is that has caused me to photograph seriously for the past 43 years and what continues to push me to forward in photography.  I think one can improve his or her photography if he or she explores their reasons for making images.  In fact, I think it is necessary to conduct a thorough self-examination to determine why you create your art to get a better understanding of who you are and what your motivations me be.  Here are some of my thoughts and reasons why I create my photographic art (no particular order of importance):

Photography gives more meaning to my life.
Photography energizes me.
Photography allow me to explore and wander.
Photography allows me to create something original.
Photography allows me to create something beautiful and/or meaningful.
Photography allows me to stop time.
Photography gives me something meaningful to me to share with family and friends.
Photography excites me.
Photography allows me to be passionate.
Photography makes me happy.
Photography makes money for me.
Photography keeps me learning.
Photography is an adventure in multiple ways.
Photography has given me some great friends.
Photography allows me to create history, if only for my family and friends.
Photography allows me to set goals and work to get better at something.
Photography allows me to mentor others who are trying to learn it.
Photography brings me much satisfaction.
Photography generates self-pride.
Photography allows me to feel as though I have accomplished something.
Photography allows a part of me to be left behind after I die.
Photography causes me to be thankful for what talent and skills I have in creating my art.
Photography allows me to appreciate my environment.
Photography causes me to think about things I see in photographs.
Photography allows me to engage with others in a common interest.
Photography helps me better appreciate other photographers and their images.
Photography forces me to really see my surroundings everywhere I go.
Photography allows me to see things I never would have seen if I hadn't developed my vision.
Photography stretches me as an artist.
Photography makes me a better person.

I'm sure there are more things that photography gives to me.  But I will stop with this list of 30 items photography is to me.  I recommend you make your own list.  It is only with self-understanding that we grow, stretch, and succeed in our endeavors.

Thanks for looking.

Enjoy!
Dennis Mook