Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Don Bell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Don, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
My parents gave me a camera for Christmas when I was about 7 years into a blossoming broadcast journalism career. At the time, I was fresh out of a longterm relationship and struggling to find my footing. Mom said she wanted to see me use my time more creatively and get back to shooting photography. They saw the potential in me that I couldn’t see. As it turns out, that was the single most significant moment of my practice. On that day, I renewed my vows to the craft and I’ve walked hand in hand with photography ever since.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
They say, “seeing is believing.” That’s a lie!
If you’re truly seeing, your belief should be shaken – or like a good old fashioned – stirred.
I’m a lens-based visual artist who loves creating images that invite viewer questions, introspection and exploration.
I began shooting photography as a kid growing up in North Jersey. I shot with whatever cameras my parents had around the house. There was a classic polaroid that made pictures with a streak going down the left side. Oh! And my dad’s 1979 Minolta SRT which I still use today! The soft focus on the 50mm lens is chef’s kiss! In addition to photography, I love the written and spoken word which has led me to a career in broadcast journalism. I’m an Emmy Award winning sportscaster who has covered everything from the Super Bowl to the World Series and beyond.
My journalism career influences my photographic practice. It creates a pursuit of authenticity; a burning desire to present multiple sides of a story. I love using portraiture as a vehicle to create narrative experiences. Sometimes the process leads to work that arrives at the intersection of defiance, vulnerability and unapologetic truth. Overall, I’m intrigued by humanity and the range of emotions that exist under the protective armor we create to navigate life’s ups and downs.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Formal education can be overrated. Not in all aspects of life, but certainly in the creative space. I have a healthy respect for those who have a fine arts degree or any other certificate. Do I have one? Nope! I have a Masters in Journalism but for a long time, I walked around with imposter syndrome because I felt like my photography needed formal validation.
What I’ve since learned is that everyone forges their own path. We can all take different routes and safely arrive in the same beautiful place.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Art is how I love myself. Because of photography, I’ve never been lonely a day in my life. There’s a world in my mind and through my lens that exists exclusively through my experiences and there’s something deeply personal and gratifying about it. In addition to that, I get to share it with others. Love grows and flourishes within that process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://donbellphotography.com
- Instagram: @donbellphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DonBellPhoto/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-bell-846b71256/
Image Credits
@donbellphotography