I'm not sure if it's a direct result of Alan's pinned post here, but I have noticed a good deal more postings and even comments in this group as of late. It's genuinely nice to see. I've been a silent observer for roughly the last year, and I'm attempting to interact a little more with the group. My time here started just over two years ago, and it was a very different place. I was a lurker then as well, but the encouragement of some faces still around (and some that I don't see here anymore) were a great help in setting me on the path to new forms of photography. It was this group that helped inspire me to minimalism and ICM photography.
That being said, part of the reason I haven't posted in a good while is that I haven't taken much time to do my own photos, or ones that would go here. Those types of photography inspired by you all have fallen out of my portfolio as of late. I now primarily shoot sports, but always enjoy coming to this group to admire the work of others. I have especially enjoyed seeing the ICM work being put up in the last week or so by Jennifer, Alan, and Kyle.
Thank you all for keeping this group lively.
Edit: I decided to include a few of my more recent works as a look into what I've been working on.
Thanks so much for posting Matthew. I think when we don't see interactions we assume that discussions are not being viewed.
It is fantastic to hear that you have been inspired by this group. I would encourage you (and others) to give your feedback on the posts of others - not only because we want to hear a variety of voices but to let others know that their posts are not going unnoticed and have value.
All voices and opinions are welcomed and count, as a veteran of the group yours may have the benefit of that experience.
Can't wait to see more pics from you and see what direction you are headed in.
Thank you for commenting, Alan! I've tried to become a little more engaged. That's part of the reason for posting this. I actually went back today and commented on some of the older posts. I've been happy to see this group be rejuvenated.
Hi Matthew! Good to hear from you. I can only echo what Alan has said, as I had exactly the same reaction. I often think of your imaginative work with its element of fantasy, unique to you, that you have posted before, whether portfolio-ready, or inviting CC. I found myself thinking: how does Matthew come up with this stuff? where does it come from? I just don't seem to have that capacity - but you stimulate my own imagination.
I strongly agree with Alan in welcoming your comments even if you're not in a position to post fresh images here. Yours is a particularly constructive and friendly voice here - typified in this very post - so I've missed you, frankly!
I've done little photography for various reasons for a while so have nothing totally new to post either, but like to remain engaged, with this group of distant (in certain ways) friends.
All the best with your sports (or any other) photography.
Thank you for the kind words, Chris! They certainly mean a great deal to me. From my very first post in this group, you've been a persistently encouraging voice, always advising me on the more artistic aspects of photography. I appreciate it now and always.
And here's the sports photographer... and that weird one again. Stay weird, Matthew! ;-)
I really like the way you see things, Matthew. I hope you're able to have time to do your own photos because they are really enjoyable to take in. I enjoy your portfolio too!
Thank you very much, Jennifer! I have enjoyed seeing you work with ICM as of late.