OK, you know that feeling, when you’re excited and nervous at the same time? Where you have a very cool opportunity but it costs some money or time or energy and you’re not sure you’re ready for it? I have that right now, this moment. I just registered for The Vancouver Gathering with David duChemin in October. It’s two days with David and 20 other photographers. As he put it on his blog:
This is a chance for 20 like-minded and like-hearted photographers who won’t have a chance to travel with me to places like Italy, Nepal, or Africa, to get the best of my teaching in person, here in North America. The weekend will be dedicated to talking about photographic expression, and how we accomplish that in camera, in post-production, and in the larger context of our bodies of work. There will be a lot of discussion, a lot of laughter, and a lot of time to think about what we do, why we do it, and yes, how we do it.
The first Gathering, announced a few weeks ago, was set for August. I was so excited to see that email. Vancouver BC is a day’s drive from here. I could totally swing a long weekend! By the time I saw the email in my inbox and clicked to register, it said SOLD OUT. Darn it! So I signed up for the waitlist thinking, Who knows what might happen.
So this morning another email arrived in my inbox… An offer for those on the waitlist, first dibs to register for a second Gathering added for October. YES!!! I’m in. I’m going to Vancouver in October, to talk photography with David duChemin. I’m so excited to learn from him in person. You all know I LOVE his books. Of all of the photographers I’ve come across so far, his images and words resonate with me the most. I’m also scared as hell, because 20 people? Yeah, I can’t hide in the back in a group that small.
Yesterday I wrote “It’s the act of moving forward, that widens the path.” Living by that, today. Excited and nervous at the same time. Of course, I will tell you guys ALL about it, come October.
June 19, 2012 7:45 am
Sounds really exciting Kat. Glad you “got in”. The winds of fortune are blowing your way.
When I read your first paragraph I could totally relate. I was asked to go to Cuba to be “the photographer” for a choral group who wants the experience documented. Gonna end up costing me, more than a money maker, but how could I say no? EEEEEK!
June 19, 2012 7:55 am
Susan, I saw that on your blog but didn’t have time to comment, and I’m so excited for you! CUBA!!! It will be awesome. Congrats on getting the opportunity, and having the presence of mind to take it!
June 19, 2012 7:59 am
How exciting, Kat! The gatherings sounds perfect for you! Just remember you have a lot to offer a group like that.
June 19, 2012 8:17 am
So exciting! I can’t wait to hear all about it!
June 19, 2012 8:23 am
You think you’re nervous? I have 20 strangers coming to my place!
It’ll be great fun, thanks for joining me for this!
June 19, 2012 12:22 pm
OK, you do have a good point!
I absolutely cannot wait. Thank you for adding a second Gathering to your schedule!
June 19, 2012 8:41 am
Oh, Kat – I am SO excited for you! I was drawn very strongly to the workshop as I also resonate so strongly with David’s work. But I have already taken several trips this year and getting to Vancouver from Ohio would have been a much more expensive proposition for me. And I had the same initial reaction – ME, in a roomful of 20 other photographers – where would I hide? – but I am so glad you moved beyond that. I look forward to learning from you vicariously. How very, very exciting!
June 19, 2012 10:21 am
Awesome!!! I can’t wait to hear about it — I’m sure it will be vision-changing! ; )
I thought Within the Frame was okay — but I really became an admirer after his accident and reading his blog during his recovery. He really seems like a great guy and an incredible teacher.
June 19, 2012 5:38 pm
You’re too kind, Jessica. Thank you.
June 19, 2012 11:12 am
Hi Kat,
I’m in your Finding Your Eye group and was wondering which of David duChemin books would you recommend for someone that is finding my eye? Thanks Sue
June 19, 2012 5:36 pm
Susan – I’ve only read them once, but I’d recommend Photographically Speaking as a starting point. It’s not about gear or technique but about photographs and the language we use to create them. Foundational stuff. Good luck!
June 19, 2012 7:59 pm
Thank you David. I’m downloading it in to my Kindle right now
June 19, 2012 8:03 pm
I mean my IPad.
June 19, 2012 6:18 pm
Well… you got the recommendation from the author Susan. I don’t think it can get any better than that!
June 19, 2012 8:00 pm
June 19, 2012 8:04 pm
June 19, 2012 12:15 pm
Eeeeek……is right!! I can’t tell you how much I have wanted to that with David, I too love him, have his books, and get his newsletters/blog in my e-mail. I. Am. So. Jealous!! WOW, wowoow! ; )
June 19, 2012 5:37 pm
Kim, I think there’s still room! We’d love to have you!
June 19, 2012 6:40 pm
How’s that for cool, Kim? You just got a personal invitation from the instructor himself. Will I see you there??
June 19, 2012 5:06 pm
Wow! I love his work and his books. I just listened in on a webinar of his from Monfrotto and it was wonderful! I wish that gathering was in my budget, but very happy you’re going! Can’t wait to hear about it!
June 19, 2012 6:46 pm
Congrats Kat!! This sounds like a wonderful opportunity!! Can’t wait to hear all about it!
June 20, 2012 7:07 am
Wonderful Kat! I really enjoy his blog feeds!
June 20, 2012 11:38 am
Kat,
What a wonderful experience that will be! Looking forward to hearing all about it. Hoping that I can attend one of David’s workshops in the future, as I enjoy his wit and wisdom.
June 20, 2012 8:27 pm
It should be lots of fun!
June 23, 2012 10:17 pm
Kat, how wonderful! I too am a fan of David’s. I don’t remember how I found his blog but it was just after his accident. I find myself moved as much by his spirit and philosophy as by his photography, which I also love. I can’t wait to benefit second-hand from what I know will be a great experience for you.