I'm often asked why I got into photography. Funnily enough, I don't really know the answer. I was never really interested in photography as a kid. I never stood in the camera store when I was 10 years old looking at the SLRs in the window wishing it were mine. Even as an adult, I didn't particularly go out of my way to attend galleries or exhibitions. But about 7 years ago, I saw a 60s-era Canon FX sitting in my basement, picked it up, and clicked the button. When I heard that shutter click, it just hit me how powerful a photograph can be. With that one shutter movement, time was captured and held for all to view. Is this why I photograph? I guess it's a good a reason as any!
I personally believe a successful photo conveys a little something different to each and every person it's viewed by. A photo that conveys anger and resentment with one group, may easily produce feelings of joy in another (many journalistic photos do this every day). I prefer to shoot photos I enjoy with the faint hope that others may appreciate them as well, or at least get some ideas for their own work.