Good people pass through your life.

I came to meet Tom Jones IV (Tom broke away from the lack of creativity mode in the Jones family apparently) when I joined the Nevada Camera Club. I admired Tom’s work and also that he got to be up close to sports action on a regular basis. I love sports and have had a few chances in Las Vegas to feel the jazz of being close enough to capture the shot. I am not in position to chase that dream though. It would require a great deal of personal and financial sacrifice which I’m not prepared to do. Not to mention my required physical condition is not the same as it was 30 years ago.

I have  been offered many opportunities to participate on the field and up close designated press areas to shoot from. I have declined so many times it’s almost rude. Tom is one of the ones who never stops asking and encouraging me. I need my set two days off and more importantly want  my days off as I get to spend them with my best friend. Sorry Stacey (wife), I am talking about our grandson Adrian.

Back to Tom – Tom recently sold my wife unknowingly  a Nikon D300s. It was a gift for my 50th birthday. Could she have shopped online, perhaps, but she chose to go into Casey’s Camera on Tropicana in Las Vegas. My wife Stacey is in retail and hears online shopping stories from clients coming into her store Fred Meyer Jewelers @ the Galleria Mall. Yes you can save a few dollars online but do you get the level of knowledge and develop a trusting relationship online.

I am taking a few minutes today to thank Tom for sharing what he knows. Devoting his time to his craft and passion which is photography and people. He has always taken some time to acknowledge my photos and offer tips, critiques, and encouragement. I respect that so much I can’t hardly express how appreciative I am of Tom. He also posts his photos on flickr and includes his EXIF data which I study closely. It’s all about sharing and not being overly protective of your knowledge. I will hope to pay it forward as well (as soon as I get some more knowledge).

Thanks Tom