“Are you a photographer?” She asked politely, pointing to my camera. I quickly snapped the photo, lowered the camera from my eye and replied, “Well… ummm… yes… I suppose I am.” She smiled curtly and walked away. Her question, however, has lingered with me.

Am I a photographer? What does that mean exactly?

Does the right to be able to call myself a photographer exist within my ability to make money for my pictures? Or does simply owning a camera qualify me to tote that title? I believe it is neither of these although, I’m sure that both help to establish validity to the claim of being a photographer (I mean could one really call themselves a photographer if they don’t have a camera or take pictures?). I still haven’t quite figured out exactly what it means to be a “photographer” but I must say that I find solace in the fact that photographer is one of my many titles. I take a lot of pictures and the world inspires me. I am now able to see things completely different through my lens. I am a photographer…

~ Saadia Me*Chel