By Jomo Kenyatta

For the last few years my passion for photography has taken a more powerful influence in my life. The most intriguing aspect of photography is the power of communication that it holds in the absence of words. Attempting to pursue my goal, I have been on a mission of unrelenting determination to turn my passion into a profession. With no recollection of the manner in which I was introduced to the APA, I quickly sought to understand more about the organization. After doing some considerable research, coupled with encouragement from the LA reps, I became a member. Although not fully understanding if the activities of the APA would assist me in accomplishing my goal, I thought it wise to try it out. Here it was, only 3 weeks away from an annual portfolio review that was to be held in LA, that I heard a voice crying out from within confirming that it was indeed time to have my work reviewed. I had great hopes of having one of the art companies and reps so intrigued with my work that I would be able to return to New York and joyously proclaim to my wife, friends, family and foes that I had been signed.

While not truly ready for a full fledge portfolio review, and no finances to solidify a last minute effort to present my work in the traditional manner, my wife suggested that I present my “Pulitzer Prize” winning images on my laptop. Not knowing if this was an acceptable format, I let the reps know my situation before I traveled 2000 miles to the sunny coast known for hosting residence to some of the most famous people in the world. After a lengthy flight in which some open mouthed sleep was unavoidable. I stepped off the plane feeling a sense of fulfillment for finally having the opportunity to visit the land of beauties and blonds. Before heading to the portfolio review I haphazardly stumbled across a free publication entitled LAX magazine. It featured a unique exhibition called the “World of Reggae”, which was being housed in the English village at the Queen Mary in Long Beach. I focused on my watch realizing that I had some time to check out the exhibition. Wanting to succumb to the overwhelming desire to get more sleep, in the rental car, I realized that for the same reason I flew out to LA would be the same reason I would buffet my body and forsake the urge to sleep. Opportunities and experiences are made. Visiting the exhibition was well worth the sacrifice. Selected from the internationally renowned collection of Reggae authority Roger Steffens, the exhibition covers forty years of Jamaican musical creativity that features Bob Marley. The power of Marley’s music rested in his passion and commitment to what he felt was his cause and was evident in his performances and the lyrics that accompanied the music. It was inspirational and was well worth forsaking sleep. There is no limit to what a person or people can accomplish if they possess passion and belief in their goals. After leaving the exhibition, I was off from Long Beach to West Hollywood inspired and ready to expose myself by showing my most treasured images to professional companies and reps. Filled with thoughts of future success on my mind, and the welfare of my family and child on the way, I felt a sense of exhilaration knowing that recognition for my images was soon on the horizon. When I reached my destination of 1046 N. Orange Rd -- the building where the review was to be held looked from the outside like an industrial warehouse of some sort that appeared to house old crates and boxes instead of a photo studio. Upon entering the studio, visions that raced through my mind transformed from thoughts of an unorganized and tactless event to a very impressive display of professionalism. I couldn’t help to think that the owner of this establishment must be big time, and I thanked God that I didn’t wear jeans. Meeting other photographers was very interesting. What was most intriguing for me was the opportunity to meet a freelance photographer who has been on assignments for the world-renowned National Geographic magazine. It was also interesting meeting a photographer who had recently relocated to California from Australia, who pronounced America as the land of opportunity. Although not stated a loud, we all had hopes of becoming as big as Michael Jordan, but instead of shooting a round orange ball, our success would come from perfecting our abilities to capture profound images that transcend time. The experience and event was well worth the time, money and effort. If it’s God’s will, I would like to take advantage of the opportunity next year with even greater hopes of being recognized as a distinctive emerging photographer. In a nutshell, the portfolio review was a class act.