Monday, April 5, 2010

Meet the photographers: Rob Burgess






My love affair with photography began quite by accident.
I had just started my first full-time job as a journalist as the Education Reporter at The Reporter-Times in Martinsville, Ind. Like many small-town newspapers, the editorial staff was relatively modest. Job titles were merely a general directive, never the entire scope of the duties involved. Responsibilities were shared, borrowed and stolen.
This environment required the ability to adapt quickly.
For every moment of uncertainty, confusion and anxiety came with it a fleeting opportunity for growth. Each day the front page needed a centerpiece. Added to that, oftentimes the most news-worthy story of the day was the least naturally eye-catching. To top it off, the office generally only had one shared camera to complete this task.
Every shift required me to produce something from nothing. This experience colors my perception of photography to this day. Some of my favorite shots came from lively, colorful situations that begged to be captured: homecoming, graduations, parades, et al.
But if you want to impress me, show me a soulful giant check-passing photo or an affecting portrait of a city council meeting.