26/10/2022
Dear friends, I hope everyone is well 🙏 As I grow older, I find myself struggling with what to share on social media. It's too early to do a reflection on the past year, so what about an anecdote?
I remember years ago, I was very upset because on Instagram, there was this tactic to follow a person, wait until they followed back and then unfollow them again. People even paid bots to do this. A new follower today would vanish tomorrow. How unmotivating to put out content if nobody would see it - or so I thought! 🧐
One day, a young man greeted me on a convention. He told me how the videos I'd put out earlier had really motivated him. He really meant it and this delighted me very much, much more than the number of followers or friends on my account.
Gradually, through this meeting and also taking up Buddhism and meditation, I weakened my attachment to these virtual numbers. I made peace with not participating in this rat race, not caring about whether my work would be in the next Vogue or in the trash can. In fact, a great artist once said that one of the best places to hang one's work is in the toilet!
Throughout my eight years of photography, I photographed politicians, CEOs and fashion models. But I also photographed friends, grandparents and everyday people - with the same respect and desire to capture their genuine beauty as anyone else regardless of status.
I don't say these words to boast. When I'm dead, what good will my pride do me? I say it to inspire someone out there. That they can also aspire to do good for others. Whether that involves medical or mental care, financial support or immortalizing their beauty in a photo, the intention is always paramount.
If we can let go of the numbers, we will find it easier to create. That is my wish for you: to revel in the present and illuminate the path for those around you!
My studio space remains open for all. Until next time 🙏
⭐ Elouïse @ Network Model Agency / BOOM MODELS AGENCY
