When I feel as though I ought to find some way to change my photographic style in ways that (I hope) would help me achieve the kind of public success I desire, I remind myself of Vivien Maier. She shot what she wanted when she wanted, and today her street photography is celebrated. That is what I want for my work (though while I am alive to enjoy the accolades, please and thank you), and I won’t get there by changing my focus or style to mimic someone else. I also remember the years I shaped myself to appeal to others in other areas of my life and the emptiness I felt in spite of the public praise I received. I haven’t fought this hard for the freedom to be myself to go back to living that way, accolades or not.
