Who inspires you?

People often ask, "what other photographers inspire you?" I don't have to even think about that, the question is, " how long a list do you want?" There are so many people who have inspired my work in the last few years, local friends and many I have met on line. The local group is nice, because you build personal friendships with very talented artists, but the internet lets me communicate, sometimes one on one, with photographers from all over the planet! Being a part of national organizations, like WPPI ( Wedding and Portrait Photographers International) and PPA ( Professional Photographers of America), also afford me the chance to meet these world class good guys in person at conventions and seminars.
Here are a short list of the people whom I draw creative inspiration from:

Joe Bussink
He is the top drawer. I have seen Joe speak twice now, and both times have changed the way I look at what I do, and hopefully the way I do what I do. Joe is a true artist photographer. One of a kind.

Jerry Ghionis
Another Aussie photographer, The most amazing wedding photographer, very dynamic, I saw him last January at Imaging U.S.A. and learned SO much! He is just incredible.

Marcus Bell
Marcus is from Australia, he too, is a true artist. A very inspirational man. Photoshop genius, and business man.

[b] Becker
Awesome photographer working in California. Taught me to give back and share with others!

David Jay
Operates my favorite message board, O.S.P. Also helped me understand the concept of giving and sharing knowledge. Amazing.

Then there's Joe Photo
Another southern California photographer who just rocks! His fashion oriented wedding images are stunning. I have not had the pleasure of meeting Joe yet, but hope to at the WPPI convention next year. If you read his blog you will quickly see that he doesn't take himself too seriously, a trait shared by everyone on this list.
He's quite the actor too, here are two of his short films...






There are so many others that need to be on this list! Maybe I will post part two later, If you are a photographer, or just appreciate great artists, check out the above artists, You will be inspired too..