Am I that far out of the loop? Where'd all these good photographers come from?

When I first moved back into Bakersfield four years ago I was disappointed with the local scene. Yes, there were the long-standing pillars of studio portrait photography and the experienced staff of The Californian were snapping away their weekly shots, but I never saw younger, talented, fresh-style photographers anywhere.

I walked into Borders today and noticed a small coffee table full of local material. The only place I frequent that carries Bakotopia is Daphne's and I haven't been there since the new issue came out so I picked one up. I also picked up the Southwest Voice, Mas, Bakersfield Life, Soul Bakersfield, and B.I.C. I was excited and disappointed to see some great photographers that I didn't even know where out there.

Jessica Moncrief, Greg Nichols, Holly Carlyle, Studio 13, Joseph Gomez, & Pilar just to name a few.

Excited because I'm not competitive. I don't look at good work and see it as a threat to my business because I don't have one. I love photography! When all the elements come together its beautiful. I devour the latest copies of jpg and Rangefinder, it just feels real good to see local talent shaking things up.

Disappointed because I feel I'm missing out. I often talk about my college days when all the photographers would be working tirelessly trying to improve our craft. Networking and feeding off each other. I don't have much time anymore. I guess its a good thing in some ways. Due to a number of reasons I've started to take alot out of my life that doesn't either improve me, or help me improve the lives of others. Its a good new focus. With my photography it means I've been able to do stuff I really want or use what I know in ways that will impact the lives of others.

/If you have a way in mind, let me know.

Beautiful day today in my I opinion. I LOVE overcast days. Portraits are good indoors if you're near a large window. Black & White shots can be fantastic. At my day job dealing with HVAC it means a slow day (which is good most of the time). Cool weather is generally associated with it. It just makes me feel good. Am I alone?