misanthropy creation: Featured Artist: Garden Blues Photography

What you like to go by: just Jocelyn!

When did you start your shop?
I started my shop in October 2011. It was a long time before I decided that I should try selling my photographs. I'm very critical of my own work, and opened the shop after a bit of encouragement from friends and family.

Is this your only job?
No. I work full time for the Public Health and Human Services agency in my county as well. It's a demanding job, but I like to think of my time working on my Etsy shop as relaxation time. I also try to make time for developing my blog (www.GardenCorner.net) and other websites when I have time.

When did you realize you had this talent?

I think that I'm still realizing my talent; it's something that is a constant process for me. On the other hand, I realized how much I loved photography when I was quite young. I got my first camera at the age of six, and used up 2 rolls of film before my birthday party was even over! I've been hooked ever since.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I find my inspiration in the little things. I've realized that when I'm being mindful of things that bring me joy throughout my day, I suddenly have much more to photograph! Unfortunately, it's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a busy lifestyle, and many people miss out on a lot of life's little pleasures. I suppose that's what I consider my goal; to bring an appreciation for the simple and beautiful things in our lives that often go unnoticed.

Who has been the most supportive of your work?
My family has always been very supportive and encouraging in regards to my photography.

What is one thing you would like to accomplish that you haven't yet?
I would love to grow my websites so that I'm earning enough passive income to quit my day job and fully focus on photography.

What are your other hobbies?
Gardening is my favorite hobby aside from photography. If I could make a living just gardening and taking pictures, I would be so incredibly happy.

What are your words to live by or favorite quote?
Strangely enough, when I'm feeling down or unmotivated this quote from Richard Dawkins really puts things into perspective for me:

"We are going to die, and that makes us the lucky ones. Most people are never going to die because they are never going to be born. The potential people who could have been here in my place but who will in fact never see the light of day outnumber the sand grains of Sahara. Certainly those unborn ghosts include greater poets than Keats, scientists greater than Newton. We know this because the set of possible people allowed by our DNA so massively exceeds the set of actual people. In the teeth of these stupefying odds it is you and I, in our ordinariness, that are here."

Where is the farthest you have traveled?
I've traveled as far away as Paris, France. It was only for a few weeks during college, and I would love to go back. I never got to the Louvre, and I've decided that going back even if just for that, would totally be worth it!

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April 28, 2013

Featured Artist: Garden Blues Photography

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