It’s been quite awhile since I posted anything so I thought I would write about a variety of things currently happening in my life. I plan to start writing a few pieces a week featuring imagery from my travels, project updates, and the general chaos that is my life. I hope you enjoy!
A Day in the Life
The last few months have been a whirlwind to say the least; I feel like a dancing monkey in a petting zoo. I love the old adage, “Be careful what you wish for ‘cause you just might get it”. The fact is I’m really enjoying the new experiences in my life; I’m just a bit uncomfortable expressing it.
Those who know me understand my reluctance to speak publicly about my experiences; however, I’m becoming more and more comfortable with the notion. I’ve realized that venturing into the public eye has its pros and cons. The pros are the fringe benefits; meeting interesting people, developing new friendships, the travel, ect. The cons are being stared at everywhere I go, dealing with hecklers, and having to be cautious of the people around me; it’s all very strange.
Again, I’m becoming increasingly more comfortable with my new life. Obviously, the pros outweigh the cons or I wouldn’t be doing it. I just hope my inner circle of friends continue to tolerate me, lol.
Christopher Durst by Glen Brown
The TV Show
Working behind the camera hasn’t exactly prepared me for being in front it. I don’t care what anyone says, being on camera is a very unusual, and sometimes uncomfortable, experience. Seeing yourself on camera is even more awkward! At this point, I don’t really care anymore; I’m just going with it; I’m just trying to enjoy the overall experience. I am excited to know that my little girls will always have something to look back on when I’m old and stiff!
One thing I’ve learned throughout this process is that network TV has ideas of their own when it comes to presenting a show; finding the right network is imperative; I definitely don’t want my show to end up like ‘Jersey Shore’. I realize a producer’s responsibility is to ensure viewership by sensationalizing aspects of a show and/or its characters, but it’s important to me that my true personality and humility are known.
Hopefully, if everything goes as planned, the show will air in spring 2013. We still have a long way to go, we’re just getting started; I’m definitely ready for the next phase of this project.
The Documentary
Knowing that the show will most likely spin me in a certain light, I thought it was important to create a companion piece that represents who I truly am. One of my favorite threads in the documentary is that of my ‘double life’. I’m definitely known publicly as the crazy rock star photographer, but at home, I’m Mr. Mom. I’m really looking forward to completing this project; I feel great about it.
It’s a feature length documentary that explores the meaning and relative importance of art in today’s technologically advanced society where everyone has the access and ability to create. The film explores the depths of these concepts while chronicling my spiritual and artistic journey. I would be very grateful if you were to support this project!
On the Road Again
For the last several months I’ve been so caught up in the development of my show and the documentary that I haven’t really had a chance to tour much. My shooting schedule has all but taken me away from what I love the most, photography. Luckily, that’s all changing now.
I’m currently on the road supporting Jane’s Addiction for a short stretch. Once I return to Austin, I begin work on a new project featuring Willie Nelson. Touring has always been my passion, there’s nothing like being out on the open road and taking photographs of your favorite artists; aside from my family, it takes precedent over anything else in my life. Being on the road is freedom, you get to leave all of your worries behind; you get to act like a 12 year old! I definitely think I’ll keep my day job.
Additional Projects
I definitely have a few other projects that I’m excited to share with you. I’m currently in the process of writing my first biographical book; it definitely brings new meaning to the phrase, ‘I’m an open book’. I’m also working on several photography books featuring concert photography of my favorite artists / clients. Lastly, I’m finally getting ready to overhaul my website to include an online storefront for my prints, photography books, and merch line. It never stops!
Photography Tips
I regularly receive emails and facebook messages from photographers asking me for advice; frankly, I’m flattered that anyone would even want my advice. I guess the most important piece of advice I could offer a photographer is to be yourself, develop a style that’s distinctive and unique to you. I always knew that I wanted to be different; I didn’t want to learn formal techniques; I wanted to be me. Defining who you are as a photographer is imperative to your success; offering something unique to our industry is how you gain exposure and respect.
Be humble and kind, treat your colleagues with respect and support each other. Always remember, you can be anything you want to be, you just have to work for it! Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Pffff, what do they know?! Pursue your dreams at any cost.
Thank You!
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of my family, friends and supporters. Last year was an epic year, I definitely didn’t think it could get any better; I was certainly wrong. Your support means the world to me; it keeps me driven and refreshingly motivated. Thank you so much, I look forward to sharing my continued adventures and experiences of 2012 with you.
Thank you, Christopher Durst
