ABOUT JONATHAN
Why am I a photojournalist?
People have asked me before, if I ever get tired of taking pictures, making music, writing things… What is it you are trying to accomplish, they wonder? Why are you still pursuing this creative career?
Nearing 40, I still don’t have a definitive answer to that. I’m not even always certain where all the time has went! But I know, most people haven’t even seen a fraction of my creative pursuit. Most of the journey still sits on hard drives and cards. I’m hoping to change that, here and now, with this new website, along with some other, hopefully great ideas.
I think the answer is somewhere within the reality of the fantasy, that I just can’t help myself but to keep on trying to find a higher meaning through all that I create. There is a lot of harsh realities in my pleasant fictions. I think that, through a congruence of these mediums, I have been able to investigate new aspects and reveal subtle nuances in the lives of others. And by proxy, learn more about myself, in the process. It is a never-ending story. There is often a loneliness in others I can relate to, but that still always manages to surprise and remind me just how small I am; how inconsequential my problems, my fears and worries… in the larger picture.
We all face unique challenges and successes, battles and victories in our lives. And I know that I haven’t made enough pictures of all these things, yet — of people, their faces, within moments, the enduring power of the human spirit. There are stories… wherever you look, and in everyone you meet. You just have to [look]. The world will always need more stories.
That’s what I try to do, and with growing consistency: I listen to people, make photos with them. Then write about it, about their lives. And, in doing so, I’ve found that good things happen. I am able to experience a little something more about life, unexpected. That is my ‘photogra-thie’ creed:
Listen. Tell stories. Take photos. Write words. Speak truth. Even if your voice trembles. Even if your hands shake.
Everyone has a story — Let me show yours.
UPDATES
Regarding the COVID-19 pandemic: I am fully PPE ready and respect social distancing, but I also recognize my obligation to continue documenting my community. With that said, I am still currently available—albeit in this more-limited capacity—for any freelance photography or video or writing assignments in the BELLEVILE, ON. area. If you are comfortable with safely working on a project, then please let me help to show your story.
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