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On Photography: I was diagnosed with Leukemia (ALL) in January of 2009. Over the months that followed, treatment ensued, and I wasn't able to return to work for 9 months. The radiation and chemo had stolen my ability to draw, write, and accomplish simple tasks. There were days that I couldn't even button my own shirts, let alone draw something with my numb, tingling hands. It was depressing to watch something you were good at your entire life be stripped away. Even after returning to work, my ability to draw the way I used to, hadn't returned yet. I needed another avenue for venting my creativity. It became clear that learning about photography was now or never. So, I did what any husband would normally do - I turned to my wife and said, 'I want to do this, and I need you to help me.' And she did. She got me my Nikon camera that I still use today, every day. 2010 was spent mostly learning. I'd shoot whatever I could, whenever I could. I learned about f/stops, shutter speeds, long exposures, focusing, tri-pods, and the difference between lenses. I took my camera everywhere with me. Even to the grocery store. I’m still guilty of doing this today. I read somewhere that a photographer's first 10,000 photos are the worst, and from there, you get better. So, I figured I'd better get busy. I couldn't draw, but I could push a shutter button. I attended seminars, took classes, read books, studied other photographers and listened to the advice they were willing to give from their experiences. Little did I know, that I would fall in love with photography, and it would become the forefront for my creative outlet, moreso than drawing ever was. Ironically, as dreadful as it was to be diagnosed with cancer and withstanding the treatment that followed, it was a blessing that led me towards my passion for photography. If I would’ve never been diagnosed, I may not have ever taken the time to learn photography, and have the ability to share my work with those who appreciate the images. Every image I capture is a historical, positive reminder that I survived the disease and am willing go forth every day, continuing to pay back a colorful, pleasant revenge on the disease that has taken too many loved ones from all of us. The best camera you have, is the one that's with you. On Drawing: There's a certain satisfaction that comes with bringing an illustration to life. I guess it's the process to complete with self-admiration that's both the attraction and the struggle. Because once the illustrations are done, I hardly look at them. It's all in the journey. A friend of mine once told me, 'I'm not an artist. I'm just one who can express his inter-most thoughts on paper. ' I thought that was an interesting way to put it. In late 2010, I signed on to digitally ink a children's book. As more information becomes available, I will post about it here. To my knowledge, my role in the completion of the first book of a three book series is complete. Jonathon Rose
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