Dear Readers,

The response from my article "Beyond the Documentary Photograph" in Outdoor Photographer’s September 2003 issue was overwhelming. Thank you all for your kind words and generous spirits.

Namaste,
Nancy

Here are some examples of what you had to say:

Ms. Rotenberg,

“Regarding your article in the OP September issue: Extraordinary images, inspiring prose, and from personal experience, a most wonderful woman…You can quote me on this one—You are one of the most outstanding contemporary photographers in the world today…Anyone who has the privilege to work with you or to be mentored by will reap benefits, passion, and joy of not only about photography, but for life as well.”

One of your most ardent fans,
Jim Clark,

“Rotenberg writes with power and poignancy. Her words are recipes not only for more joyful photography but for more joy in one’s life regardless of where they are in their image making journey. Her writing, like her images are not meant to be gulped down hastily and to do so is to miss the subtleties and the powerful nuances of her work. She writes and she photographs, with an infectious joy. If one takes the time to really look at her work and to really think about what she is saying then one quickly realizes that they need to re-read and re-savor her images and her thoughts. Neither are sugar coated, both need to be carefully chewed then allowed to sit awhile to be digested. But if you do that if you allow your self to be nourished by Rotenberg you will, like I have come to learn, experience that delicious sense of being sated and yet eager for the next meal.”

Rob Bridges

“I just finished reading your article in this month’s Outdoor Photographer, Nancy, and all I can say is ‘wow!’ Your eloquent prose and awe-inspiring images have captured my heart and mind, and inspired me to take my nature photography to entirely new creative levels. Your tips for practicing beyond documentary photography are innovative and very helpful, and the accompanying images illustrating various techniques are visually stunning and magical. Having been a participant in your wonderful Callaway Gardens workshop this past spring, I was reminded again of the infinite number of creative possibilities when photographing.

“Truly, I have never another photographer with such passionate enthusiasm for capturing the beauty and small wonders of nature. Your contagious curiosity and deep appreciation for the world around us will travel with me always ‘in my mind’s eye’ as I peer through the viewfinder of my camera.”

Charles Needle

“Nancy!” What a surprise to see your excellent, article in Outdoor Photographer. I REALLY needed to read that article. I have been forgetting what I truly like in photography – creativity. Lately I have been more concerned about making money and promotion of my work and being frustrated by the poor results. Your article got me back on track with what is really important – to have fun with my art. Thanks.

Saundra Miles

“I just read “Beyond The Documentary Photograph” in September OP. I thought the article was very well written, inspirational and indeed a reflection of you and your style. It makes me want to grab a camera and go “Scouting for Treasures.”

I was with you on the RMSP Oregon Coast workshop in 1998, maybe 1999. I really enjoyed that experience. I learned many things. I will especially remember your words of wisdom as a few of us thought that the day was over, because we thought that the light was gone, and were heading for the 144 step climb up to the motel in Bandon. You said something like, “Where are you guys going, there are still opportunities to be had, get over here? “ I captured one of my favorite images in the next 30-40 minutes with you on that beach, thank you.”

Bill McAllister

“Nancy, I read your ‘Beyond The Documentary Photograph” article and found it to be exceptional. I have read other articles/books on the subject but found your article to be very readable and inspiring. I feel many of your suggestions are worth pursuing. We all hope to attain our own more personal approach to our photography and your suggestions could be a giant step in that direction if we take the time to allow it to happen.”

Ron Palmere

“I just HAD to tell you it was great to read your words in the latest OP magazine! Your remarks really touched home with me on so many levels. I recognize in your work and writing that we are of the same mind when it comes to creating art. That’s good to see…(makes me feel like I’m not the only one…when everyone’s tied up in talking about other silly gear related stuff and overlooking the important emotional perspective.)

Joshua Hakin

“Nancy Rotenberg’s “light” has cast a shadow over me. She is as inspirational and creative as any photographer I know today. She challenges me to reach a different level in macro photography and inspires me to remember, “we’ve been handed a gift of giving shape to some mystical timing when heart, mind and eye come together.” I LOVE her work and would be happy to see more articles by her in Outdoor Photography Magazine. Thanks!”

Janie Greene

“How refreshing to read in Outdoor Photographer of the “Rotenberg” “Going Beyond The Handshake” philosophy! I love your message about Art from Art, how true! Because of your personal mentoring, I have learned to search for the essence of an image and to try and “tell a story” as you suggest. I’m just now starting to “trust the process” but am definitely in “awe of it all.”

Nancy, you have a unique ability to help the photographer (reader in this case) experience the JOY of photography. Your passion, inspiration, love of people and life has helped me to go beyond the documentary image and to uncover the essence of my own vision! You are a rare gem! A treasure to the world of photography!

John Barclay

“Ms. Rotenberg, I ran to P.C. as soon as I read your article 3 times, and I see that I am not the first to send my kudos. However, send them I must. Fantastic article and photography. In a couple of short pages, you have explained and instructed (in my estimation) the essence of creative photography. Thank you sharing such interesting and poetic thoughts with us. May your fame and fortune grow in leaps and bounds.”

Don De Perna

“I want to thank you and commend you on such a refreshing article on visualization. Most photography magazines discuss reviews of equipment, film, and technique but seldom do they address the subject of how to prepare yourself to see the wonder around us. I especially enjoyed your blending of the philosophical quotes with the prose and photos. It offers a nice balance.”

George Quiroga