Missing Montana
You couldn’t pay me to go back to high school or college. While I had a great collegiate experience at ORU, when it was over, I was more than ready to be done and move on. The Rocky Mountain School of Photography, on the other hand, is a different story. If it weren’t for the cost and the 4 1/2 month time commitment, I’d go back in a heartbeat just to be in that environment. We all knew our time in Missoula at RMSP was special, but it was hard to grasp the full extent of it. Only being away could allow us to appreciate fully what we had learned, the friendships made, and how cool it was to learn photography every day.
It’s hard to believe it was almost a year ago that I packed my car and made the 13 hour drive straight west from Fargo. I knew RMSP was something that I wanted to do and was excited about, but I still felt strange because it seemed like another random interest of mine. But looking back now, I would not trade that experience for anything. I think fondly about our classes, optional lectures with Neil, photographing ghost towns, driving through the incredible landscape of Montana, and sitting around using geeky camera and computer terminology with other students.
While we felt a little crazy taking such a big step, we also knew lots of friends and family members that would have loved to be in our position. We were all living out a small dream, not just talking about doing it. Our groups C and D became especially close, learned together, and made each other better. It’s very emotional to think about how special our camaraderie was and yet I can’t explain it to someone who wasn’t there. When I ask others if they miss the experience as much as I do, they resoundingly say yes. Many people went home and went through withdrawal and mild depression because they had lost the relationships and experiences that had been vital to their daily lives for 4 1/2 months. It’s strange being on our own, trying to make a business of photography and not having the daily support of our classmates. The Internet helps immensely, yet cannot compare to personal contact. I miss being surrounded by people who knew what I meant when I asked questions about f-stops, exposure, Lightroom, and dragging the shutter. I miss their encouragement and telling me I could do it when most others seem to suggest getting a “real” job and settling into their boring routine.
I thank God for Montana and the time I had. What I experienced there will stay with me forever. While I started out feeling inadequate and crazy for taking such a risk, after 2 months I was confident and knew I belonged at that school. I knew God had sent me there and had given me an eye for photography that he would use somehow. That’s what I hold on to now when it hurts and want to be back in Missoula. I trust he didn’t just send me there for a special experience that would end, but to develop skills that will lead to even greater experiences that would not be possible if I hadn’t visited Montana.
I’ve been reminiscing a bit myself Kyle. Can’t believe it’s been a year since I was gearing up to head to Montana. Although looking back at where I was, I definitely feel confident, directed, and know exactly what I want for my future.
I remember getting a chance to talk to you at our first BBQ. I knew you’d do well
And time has proven me right. Did you ever think at that point that a little less than a year later, you’d have a full fledged photography business, a certain style, and a firm idea of where your love of photography would go?
Keep up the good work!
Thanks Missy. A year ago I didn’t even think I belonged at RMSP, let alone feel like a professional. It’s amazing how quickly life changes and the opportunities we’re given. I miss the friendships and the environment of RMSP but am grateful to have had such a wonderful experience. Hopefully I’ll be able to go back and teach a course some day.
I’ve come across many a blog post much similar to this one.
I’ve written one myself.
I think it really shows what this period in our Lives has done to us. There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think about RMSP and/or the time I spent in Missoula with you guys.
It’s been one of the best summers I’ve had.
Miss you all!
hey kyle,
what a beautiful post you wrote. i miss seeing you in the halls and am so excited to find your blog. i hope you are well, and would love to see the day when you approach me about teaching. i hope that you are finding rich opportunities and that your passion for seeing things in your ‘kyle’ way is well fueled. take care.
marcy j.