On Seeing: A Journal – #243

Though this journal entry is all about me, since returning to New York City from receiving a wonderful honor in Florida, I’ve been asked about the event, so (with an honest attempt at modesty) here’s the story.

The recent week I spent at FOTOfusion in Palm Beach was a grand experience. In addition to ambitious, serious students and amateur photographers, there was an impressive group of professionals including photo editors, curators, auction house specialists, writers, academics and equipment specialists.

I was pleased and flattered to have one of my images on the publicity for the gathering.

I personally derived so much from meeting individuals whose reputations I knew, and reconnecting with colleagues and friends.  The gatherings, both formal and informal, were rich and informative.

This note arrived a few days later from Jim Colton, the Director of FOTOfusion and Fatima NeJame, the Executive Director of the Palm Beach Photographic Centre, who, together, brilliantly administered the entire event.

Fatima and Jim

“Just a note of thanks to everyone for being part of FOTOfusion 2018. I can confidently state that this was the best one ever! We couldn’t have done this without your dedication and commitment and we are extremely grateful for granting us your valuable time and wisdom. All of the attendees benefited greatly and we look forward to seeing you again in the years to come.

We strive to make this event better each year, so please feel free to send us any suggestions that you feel will benefit the program. Together we can make FOTOfusion the MUST ATTEND event every year.

Thank you again for being part of the FOTOfusion Family!

Regards,

Jim Colton”

For me, it was a heady week: A Lifetime Achievement Award from the organization, a major exhibition of my work, and the opportunity to deliver a major address.

Here are some of the things I saw and did:

I attended a class by the remarkable photographer, Gary Hershorn, where he explained and demonstrated his current interests, among them, New York scenes and Instagram. Follow Gary’s work on Instagram at @garyhershorn

Jim Colton introduced many of the accomplished speakers at the lecture sessions.

Jim presents HS with the FOTOfusion Award at awards dinner.

Beverly helped Tom Bullington, adjust one last photograph.

There was a fine turnout at the gala for the exhibition’s opening night.

I love when people look – really look – at my work, so I couldn’t help myself but snap away!

The huge gallery space was divided into sections.

Underwater work:

Beauty and fashion work:

Dance, the human body and athletes:

Portraits:

The sheer spaciousness of the gallery was a photographer’s dream.

The sheer spaciousness of the gallery was a photographer’s dream.

Beverly and Steve Fine, at my lecture. Steve was the Director of Photography at Sports Illustrated and hired me for many shoots during the years he was there. He’s now the Director of Photography and Sports at Flipboard.com—if you don’t know Flipboard. Check it out!

And, yes…  Thank you so much, Jim and Fatima.