#541 Erika Greco is a passionate amateur photographer from Charleston, South Carolina. Erika shares her unique journey into photography, which began in a magnet high school for the arts and evolved alongside her professional career in theater. A central theme in her story is the decision to keep photography as a creative outlet rather than a business, an approach that aligns with her desire to serve and connect with her community.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

1. Journey into Photography - Erika shares how her high school exposure to photography sparked a lifelong passion, illustrating the importance of exploring different artistic mediums.
2. Photography as Art vs. Business - Erika discusses her struggles with the pressure to monetize photography and her conscious decision to maintain it as a hobby, offering a perspective on the value of art for self-expression.
3. Overcoming Technical Challenges - Erika elaborates on her transition from film to digital photography and how she navigated the technical challenges she encountered, providing insights into the learning process.

IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS

• Vergleichungsspiel: The concept of the "comparison game," highlighting the issues of self-doubt and standards in creative fields.
• Photography for Service: Using photography to connect with others and support community needs, showcasing its role beyond personal artistic expression.

DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. How can photographers balance the pressure to monetize their skills with their passion for the craft?
2. In what ways can photography serve as a tool for community engagement and service?

RESOURCES:
Follow Erika Greco on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikadgreco/

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Thanks for listening & keep shooting!