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How did you first become interested in photography?
In my youth I found photography to be very expensive. I could only shoot 12 or up to 36 shots per roll of film. Instead I took to drawing and painting. When digital photography was born I jumped in shooting people, places and things I enjoyed. I “won” many art competitions in High School for my drawing, including a 4-year scholarship to the School of Visual Arts where I studied drawing and painting, but not photography. I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, went on the get my Masters in Art History. Becoming a professional photographer was not my vision. However, one day I was asked to photograph children with Autism for one of the parents. I discovered I could be helpful by the providing photos that captured the visual story of a wonderful after-school program for these children. I was “discovered” by a PR person who wanted to hired me for his clients because he liked my “eye” and I couldn’t say no to being paid to do what I discovered I loved doing.
Who inspires you?
I started my photography career at age 54 so I am particularly inspired by photographers who are working actively in their 80’s, such as was thecase with Bill Cunningham from the NY Times, and Harry Benson who has produced books and had a documentary on his life’s work. I always bring a small camera with me to events. Either my Panasonic Lumix or Sony and hand to it children to use to shoot. I give the children tips and tricks for better shots and let them enjoy the process.
Later, when I am editing my photos I find the children’s photos have a different point of view. I am very inspired by how they
approach a person or an object. I’m inspired by people with a passion to shoot…. at any age.
What projects are you working on presently?
Over the past few years my NYC-based Photographer Agency grew to a comfortable size of 18 photographers in various cities, including NY, Hamptons, Florida, Washington DC, Los Angeles, London and Italy. Now with the Pandemic and Covid I am re-inventing my business model in Florida while maintaining a strong presence in NY. All we need are for events to return to NYC and for me to find the skills and talent to represent in Florida. I will continue shooting but I also like to see other photographers working and acting their own managers. I can maintain the high standards that my clients come to expect from me. At the end of April 2021 the Colony Hotel is hosting my photography exhibition and the announcement that I am in Florida to stay. Will I travel? YES !
XO
Annie Watt
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