With this issue it has been five years since the launch of South x Southeast photomagazine, a project created from many years working in niche magazines, combined with a background in art with a focus on photography, combined with 8 years co-directing a regional photo festival focusing on the American South. A trifecta that could only have resulted in this – a true labor of love that has made it past all those perceived markers about new businesses. We’re here. We’re a brand. And we’re getting better every day. And all of you have played a part. Thank you.
A noted photographer, and friend of mine, remarked that 30 years ago people would ask what he did and he would say, “I’m a photographer.” And they would reply something along the lines of “Really??” or “I’ll be damned”. Today when he’s asked the same question the replies are more likely to be, “Me, too!” or “Wow! So am I.” “This world is a’changing”, as my beloved grandfather, a photographer who began practicing the craft in the early 20th century, said to me some years ago. And the context of that statement was to assure me that it doesn’t mean you have to give up what you love (film) (large format), it means that you shouldn’t stop learning (photoshop) (iPhone) (instagram), and you should acknowledge those who choose a different method the way you wish them to acknowledge you. Embrace what you can, do what you love, ignore the rest. Peace.
Of the immense pleasures of this job one is watching photographers who were just emerging 5 years ago take center stage in the world of photography. And every year new ones begin that journey as well. As always, when something becomes ubiquitous talents emerge that were previously hidden by economics, education, or access. We are on the cusp of a photographic world we only know the beginnings of today. What a wonderful position to be in.
So, here’s the promotion piece. During the five previous years we decided how we wanted to grow. And we brought South x Southeast to a brand. In 2015 we launched South x Southeast Shop, an online e-commerce store where photographers may sell their prints, notecards, objets d’art, and books, and keep 70% of the profit. And in 2016 we launched South x Southeast Photoworkshops, taking you to the little-known as well as highly popular places in the South with instructors such as Jack Spencer, Alison Wright, Mark Steinmetz, Sylvia Plachy, Debbie Fleming Caffery, Andy Anderson, Jennifer Shaw, the list goes on… often combining an educational one-on-one with a photography event at the location. We’re having a blast! Please check out www.sxsephotoworkshops.com and www.sxseshop.com where we welcome your comments and ideas.
And a special thanks to the legions of friends and professionals who have believed in me, trusted me, invested their resources and talents in SxSE – you know who you are – to make this a reality.
It’s just beginning.
There is much more to come.
We could not have done this without you.
Xx
Nancy
Congratulations !!! The magazine is very well done.