A Summer Gone By
Just because we are in the midst of a pandemic and economic crisis, mother nature doesn't take a break. Fires and storms continue to take their toll on humanity. I am thankful to volunteer with an amazing military veteran-led organization called Team Rubicon that deploys to regions around the world affected by disasters. With TR, I have responded to cities around the country needing help with disaster clean-up and rebuilding. We will go into a residential area and clear out debris and other damaged material from floods, tornadoes, and storms. TR has expanded to do even more for less-fortunate communities. During the spread of the Coronavirus, we helped pack and distribute food. After recent flooding in the Philly area, I was very excited to be called not only to help residents with clearing homes from damage, but also take photos on behalf of Team Rubicon.
I considered this an honor and am proud to say it was one of my first true photography assignments. I took photos over the course of two days, and as soon as I receive approval, I will post my favorites. It was a great experience and learning opportunity. I did suffer from something I experience often with my camera: impostor syndrome. I feel as if my work cannot measure up to other photographers and my skills are simply not good enough. I believe the solution may be to share more of my work and vision. If I 'put myself out there' and welcome feedback from more professionals, I can feel good about what I am doing right and improve in other areas.