Michelle Fedosoff is a photographer, mother, wife, shoe addict, friend, daughter, sister, wine lover, and creative soul.
It is important to note that I have not always described myself this way. Not too long ago, I would never even have thought of myself as a photographer, even though this is something I have been enjoying for more than twenty years. I was too busy being defined by other people.
Over the course of my life, I have had to deal with very difficult circumstances; an abusive father, a highly toxic work environment, anxiety and depression, mental abuse, the death of a loved one, and my husband’s cancer diagnosis. I realize that I am not the only one who has ever experienced trauma, but at the time, it sure felt as if I was alone.
What I was not realizing at the time, was that photography was the constant through it all. When I was focused on my subject, it was enough to take my mind off the personal disaster at hand. It was enough to make me proud of myself, even when I did not have the confidence to say it out loud.
I will always remember the day that I finally listened to a good friend who had been pushing me to show my photography. She went with me as moral support as I prepared to be rejected. Guess what? It wasn’t.
Since that day, when I finally took a risk, many wonderful opportunities have come my way. Opportunities for my photography; fine art, being published, fashion, and awards. What has been just as rewarding though has been the amount of amazing, supportive women that I have met, just because I took a chance on myself and remain open to opportunities.
Do I still have to deal with the harsh realities of life? Of course. But when I start to feel the heaviness, I pick up my camera and start shooting.
This is what I wish for all women. Recognition. Not by others, but by yourselves. Recognize that you have a talent, even if you think it is too small. Recognize the people in your life that support you and listen to them. Always.
