Upon moving from Honolulu to Lake Nona, I wanted to immerse myself into the amazing culture that makes this place so special. I immediately got involved in fundraising for the school PTAs and offering pro bono photography services to the schools and community events; this led to becoming the official photographer of the Lake Nona Chamber of Commerce.
For anyone who volunteers their time and talents, they know how it can feel so fulfilling yet somewhat unappreciated at the same time. Receiving the Community Impact Award validated my efforts. I certainly wasn’t looking for a pat on the back, but it was overwhelmingly impactful to be appreciated in such an unexpected and public fashion.
How I Discovered That I Was Chosen for the Award
During the Chamber’s Illumination Awards ceremony in February, I was moving around photographing the presenters and audience from all angles around the ballroom. Towards the end of the evening, the event coordinator asked for me to capture some closeups of the Board Chairman, who was about to present the Community Impact Award. I positioned myself towards the front left of the stage amongst the audience.
Honestly, I was only half listening because I was so focused on my task. Joel Ferguson began presenting the significance of the award: “This year’s recipient doesn’t even know he’s been nominated. Congratulations to Rod —” And then the spotlight hit me. It was an unforgettable deer-in-headlights moment. I was so moved I couldn’t hold back the tears.
What Motivates Me to Give Back Through My Work
First and foremost, my number one job is that of Dad. I saw photography as my way to insert myself into my kids’ school experiences, initially through the Laureate Park Elementary PTA and the Middle School theater program. That progressed into getting involved in the Laureate Park neighborhood community and the Lake Nona business community. Paying it forward has been incredibly rewarding and I’ve made some amazing friends along the way.
Moments Behind the Camera That Remind Me Why My Work Matters
I find myself photographing special needs kids quite regularly. Having fostered 11 kids and having three kids of my own, I have grown to be lovingly patient, and that shows in my photography sessions. Last year, we provided red carpet portraits, event photography, and a photo booth for the IND special needs kids’ prom at the high school. We were honored to be invited to contribute to giving these kids an unforgettable experience that is a right of passage for all high schoolers. Not only was it rewarding to witness the kids enjoying themselves, but we also got to provide their parents with lasting memories of their kids flourishing in their element.
What’s Next For Me—Both Creatively and in the Community
I’m going to continue to pay it forward and involve myself into the Lake Nona neighborhood and business communities, continue to learn and develop the craft, and continue to collaborate with other photographers—and maybe one day open an epic studio space in Lake Nona for others like me to collaborate and make some amazing art.
