24/02/2024
Doc Day IV might have been my favorite to date which is a big statement to make given how much I’ve enjoyed all the last ones.
Myself and are still recovering from it all but the feedback has been pouring in and it’s overwhelming (in the best possible way). It’s hard to summarise to it all but here’s two of my main takeaways:
1. individually, each and every speaker gave it their absolute all and in a completely accidental and organic way the sum of all the talks came together with a few really important and key messages: Photography is about connection, empathy, being seen and allowing others to be seen. It’s about the humanity, not the humans.
2. Myself and Annie have never liked the idea of photography “rockstars”. Everyone photographs different and the idea that some photographers are “above” others just doesn’t sit well with me. In that room with, 200 of the best photographers on the planet, there was no ego. Just a bunch of good people who understand the importance of sharing knowledge, building a community and letting loose a bit (or a lot).
The Doc Day tag line has always been “For the love of photography” but after what we witnessed on Tuesday, it would feel apt to change it to “All heart. No ego”.
My top 3 moments?
1. Max K and Roxy Chrisman launching t-shirts into the crowd like they were born to do it.
2. The Donegal lads letting the balloons go at end Jay’s perfectly pitched talk.
3. ‘s set during the after-party.
There was no-one in that room that doesn’t deserve a massive thanks. So thank you all.
Special shout out to and for keeping the whole thing running on the day and to for these masterful photos and Aoife and Emily for the video and technical input on the day.
❤️
