Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Norton.
Hi Matthew, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Today, intentional creativity is a daily exercise for me. This wasn’t always the case. As a child, my passion was music. I dabbled with multiple instruments and recorded demos of original songs in my bedroom until just a few years ago. I’ve not shared this portion before, but my curiosity in photography exploded when my college roommate let me borrow his DSLR camera. Although I only took a half dozen images with it, I knew I wanted to get my hands on my own camera and learn everything I could. It was a few months later that I finally had one of my own and begun photographing everything. Have you ever had a friend whose desire is to never be seen without their camera? That was me at the beginning. No, I was not innately skilled. I certainly didn’t understand composition, lighting, and more, you name it. The one thing I had, however, was a longing to grow. Fast forward to now, I am exercising this creative muscle each day, whether for myself or my workplace, and it remains to exhilarate me every time.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
In hindsight, it’s been a steady road. Like all roads, there are bumps and hills that can discourage you if you let them. I’m positive about where I am and how far I’ve come in my photography journey. Am I satisfied? Now, that would have been a much more difficult question to answer. I don’t think I would be able to respond with the same level of positivity. With every photo that I release, there are two or more things I would change if given the opportunity. But that’s no different than a world-class athlete picking his game tape apart after winning the biggest game of the year. Everyone at every level desires to be better. So, to sum it all up, I have enjoyed the drive, but I want more out of the road trip as I travel further.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Right now, I am employed by a non-profit Christian ministry. Much of this position requires photography in the form of event coverage, creative portraiture, and capturing product photos. It’s a blessing to be a part of something larger than myself. Of course, outside of the “office,” I continue to create. Lately, I’ve been shooting predominantly proposal and engagement sessions because that seems to be the season we’ve entered into. It’s beautiful.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I’ve always said that life is nothing without risks. When I feel afraid, one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is, “Are you willing to fail?” For me, this is motivation to proceed. Maybe this way of thinking will inspire you to run forward and take that risk you’ve been putting off. Trust me, it is worth the lessons you will learn along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: matthewnortonphotos.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/matthewnortonphotos
Image Credits
Josias & Sandy Kietmore
Edwin & Daniela Mast
Lucas Vilela
Fabiola Burgos
Carlos & Abi Witt
Austin & Janea Michael
