Newberry High School Commencement Speech to 2008 Graduates
Monday, February 16, 2009
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| Going back to Newberry, SC is always a pleasant experience. My childhood rests in that small little town and it's comforting knowing many memories of my past are safely tucked away in Newberry. I was so excited to have the opportunity to get involved within the photography class. Inspiring some of the your artistic minds, and showing them the possibilities of following through within the arts. I was surprised when Mrs. Price called me and asked to be the Commencement Speaker for the 2008 graduating class last year. It was a huge honor. Speaking across the country and having television appearances may have been easier compared to a stadium filled with proud parents, loved ones and my old high school principal, Mr. Floyd. I didn't have anything written but I knew what points I wanted to make. Not having notes also gave me the opportunity to have constant eye contact with the students. Many of my friends asked "What are you going to talk about?" I guess the thought of a wedding photographer speaking in this surrounding isn't typical. So I tried to inspire, and deliver a heartfelt yet sincere message. |
NHS 2008 PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST WINNER
I also want to thank the Photography Class Students who participated in the "Bucket List" Photography Contest. Students were assigned the task of taking photographs of our Senior Citizens. The winning image is below. |
| Also here are a couple of students from the photography class. As I spoke about taking a subject from it's normal lighting conditions and putting that subject in brilliant light, makes you tend to perceive that person in a more positive perspective. Here are a couple of photography students who I had the pleasure of placing in that brilliant light. Photographs are such a great tool to reflect on. To look at ourselves in this brilliant light constantly can be such a key ingredient to our success. Thanks to all the students of Newberry High School. If you guys need anything let me know. |
From National to Hometown Speaker
Friday, February 29, 2008
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| Last year I had speaking engagements in Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, Los Angeles, but nothing was more exciting than to be welcomed back to my old high school. Newberry High School implemented a photography class, so I drove down on Tuesday from Greenville to share ideas and hopefully inspire young minds. I shared photographs, stories, and even spoke about young photographers. Like Sarah Anne Barlow. Sarah is cousins with the Christian Rock Group Barlow Girl. I was pleased to learn some of the students were present in Columbia to see Barlow Girl at WinterJam. You seee Sarah Anne started her photography business at the age of 17. Now at the age of 20, she is well traveled and her business takes her all over the world. Noone should ever put limits on another person. I love the show LOST, and one of it's characters John Locke. His line "Don't tell me what I can't do!", is an inspirational line for anyone who is struggling with hurdles and others who disbelieve. I can't wait to go back and speak to Ms. Cole's photography class and next time we are going to make it a photography field trip. Go Bulldogs!!!!! |
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