Ken,

I struggle with these kind of replies because It might sound like I have all the answers. Actually I have very few, but I thought I might offer a perspective to your question which is similar to John's question above.

I would suggest you try shooting a project. Something very, very personal to you. Perhaps something you don't talk about or let people see in you. Something that is the core of who you are. What are you mad about? What are you thrilled about. What are you sad about?

John, I apologize if I touch a nerve I shouldn't but when I read your post I thought perhaps shooting the places in OZ that were special to the two of you. Or places/things that were special to just her. Ex: If you late wife loved horses, perhaps artistic portfolio of horses dedicated to her.

I'm 61 years old. No point in kidding anyone but if I make it to 75 I will set a new record in my family. OK....I don't have along runway and it not something I can hide from myself anymore. I don't talk about it but it's there. So one of several portfolios I'm working on is called "Transitions". I'm focused on images that show the transition from direct sunlight into shadows. I am writing an opening dialog and have about 5 images thus far. I live where there are a lot of steep canyons so this works well for me. My last image will be the transition from darkness to light, the moment when all will be revealed to me.

By working on projects that are so personal, I find I can maintain a level of enthusiasm to carry me through the project, even if it takes several years.

Most important to me, is the understanding that the project is for me and not for commercial use or exhibition. I may exhibit at some point but the success of the project is not predicated on a successful show, but instead if it fills me with satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.

These are the tools I use to wake up and channel my creativity and I recognize they may have no value to you or anyone else.

Good luck to you and John and I hope you both find a way to open the flood gates.......Mark

Mark Sloane
Danville, CA