Photography, for me, is an opportunity to be creative on my own terms. I've tried doing some commercial work but learned I really dislike it. My work is simply my own. My challenge each time I pick up the camera is to force my brain to think outside of the box...to view the world without restraint. I love looking at photographs (not mine) that have an emotional quality to them. Photography, like painting, dance, music, sports, etc requires skill, talent and passion. You can learn the skills, but you can't learn talent or passion. You either have them or you don't. It is what distinguishes a good photographer from a great one.