Born: October 19, 1968, in New Orleans, Louisiana
Educational Background: Bachelor’s in liberal studies and mass communications from Southern University-Baton Rouge
Current Mobile Device/Computer: Samsung Android smartphone; MacBook Pro notebook with Retina display and a Dell Inspiron laptop
What do you do for a living?
I am a professional photographer and small business owner.
What do you love about your work?
The ability to capture an image and tell a story. Also, the places that it has taken me and the access I can get with my camera. Being able to photograph NFL games as well as major college sporting events. And living in a city where a whole lot is taking place.
What do you not love about your work?
Dealing with customers who try to bitch their way out of paying for services; their dollars do not match their expectations of service requested. Also, dealing with racist colleagues.
What’s your favorite photograph you’ve taken?
The one that I took of Bill Russell at the 2014 NBA Legends Brunch during NBA All-Star Weekend in New Orleans.
Is there a photograph you wish you’d taken?
One of Sage Steele on the red carpet during the 2014 NBA All-Star weekend. I had left area too soon, but I did formally meet her in-person and took a photo with her during the NBA All-Star Game in New Orleans.
What are your favorite apps/tools that help you do what you do?
Google, Photo Mechanic, Adobe Photoshop
Other than money, what else have you gained from your job?
Knowing I have told a story in a way that no one else could have told and being in positions that only a few are allowed.
What is your most significant accomplishment? Is there anything you hope to do even greater?
Surviving, starting and maintaining a photography business. I hope to be able to travel more nationally and internationally with it.
What do you do to recharge yourself?
Work out, read, watch television.
What is a song, album or playlist that everyone should hear?
“Advice for the Young at Heart” by Tears for Fears. It’s a very inspirational song, and it will make you think about not taking your life for granted.
What is happiness to you?
Free of worry…peace of mind.
For what are you most grateful?
Perseverance.
What inspires you?
To be better than I was yesterday.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My parents.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I like a wide variety of music.
When is the last time you cried and why?
The day that Anthony Bourdain died. I saw that this man had a whole lot of life in him, and it just came to an end all out of nowhere. He obviously had his demons.
What do you feel your impact is on those around you? What would you like it to be?
Being able to tell a story through my photography and let everyone see what I see through my lens.
What scares you most?
Not being able to enjoy life.
What has been your biggest disappointment in life, and how did you handle it?
Being unemployed about ten years ago when I returned home, but I endured with family support and perseverance.
In conversation do you tend to talk or listen more?
I listen more.
What are you looking for when you have a conversation with someone? What topics do you want to discuss?
When I am talking to someone, I tend to get a feel of their vibe and to see if they are real. My topics depend on the individual.
If you were guaranteed honest answers to two questions, what would you ask and to whom?
Although I had a short conversation during my ONLY chance meeting with Anthony Bourdain between flights in New York City, my two questions would be: How do you go about selecting the people that you meet during your trips? What are you searching for when you travel?
What piece of literature has influenced you the most?
The Hustler’s Ten Commandments by Hotep
What are you currently reading or is the last book you read?
I need to finish reading Powerful Proposals by David G. Pugh and Terry Bacon.
What is the most exciting thing you’ve read online recently?
When It All Boils Down by Shannon M. Jefferson
If you could take a one-month trip anywhere in the world, all expenses paid, where would you go and what would you do?
Travel throughout the Caribbean and check out the various food, drink and culture. I’d also want to photograph some Carnival.
Where is your favorite place?
I have not found it yet….but I have more appreciation for myself.
Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a while?
Take a cross-country train ride particularly through the Rocky Mountains and go on a cruise.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Fried chicken
What is your favorite food to prepare?
Something simple: peanut butter and honey sandwich
What’s been on your mind most lately?
Turning 50 and improving my business.
What makes you angry?
Ungrateful and disrespectful people. Working with people who do not have their equipment. I love black people, but cannot stand……………
What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned?
From my father: What goes around comes around.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be more vocal and do a better job of standing up for yourself.
Do you have a mantra or quote that guides your life?
Try not to worry about things that you cannot control.
How would you like to be remembered?
Being steady, stable and consistent; someone who gave their best effort.
Connect with Peter Forest
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