 "Photo:")
By Jessica Klausing Staff Writer jklausi1@my.westga.edu
On April 20, freelance photojournalist Shannon McCollum presented "See Through The Eyes of a Photojournalist," in the Campus Center Ballroom. McCollum is considered to be a hip-hop photographer, having photographed highly acclaimed celebrities like John Legend, 50 Cent, Outkast, Cicely Tyson, and more. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Rolling Stone and Black Enterprise.
The presentation began with McCollum's two-minute YouTube video, "Behind the Wheel Sample Scene," which introduced McCollum's emotional and captivating photographs.
"Everyday life begins with images," said McCollum, "Photography is based on feelings and I feel that it gave me a voice."
McCollum has been a professional photographer for 17 years. He was inspired to start a career in photography by his father, who worked as a photographer for the Atlanta-Journal Constitution. McCollum was also a fan of Gordon Parks, the first African-American to work as a photographer for Life Magazine.
McCollum first started taking photographs of John Legend in concert, whenever he toured in Atlanta. After showing Legend's manager the photographs, McCollum was instantly hired to go on tour as his official photographer. He toured with Legend for five years and toook thousands of photographs.
McCollum also worked as a photographer for public relations events, CEO's, Habitat for Humanities, Delta's Digest, and Skymiles.
He taught aspiring photographers the importance of respect within the photography business. McCollum strongly believes in assuring the client's comfort before taking photographs.
"Photography is based on relationships," said McCollum.
Although his work is featured in popular publications, McCollum prefers to remain secluded in the background rather than rubbing elbows with celebrities. He shows his passion for his work through his photography and has earned him a great deal of respect from artists.
His work has also made an impact on many student photographers, especially UWG student and photography major, Tristan Ervin. Ervin met McCollum a few years ago, and admires his work.
"I have learned a lot about taking pictures from him and I hope to continue to learn more from him," said Ervin.
McCollum's presentation inspired photography majors, but it also allowed other students to appreciate the art of photography.
"I can certainly see what it's like to capture images and see the beauty of the moment," said sophomore Danny Sherman.
After the presentation, UWG's Minority Affairs presented McCollum with a standard service award for his enlightening power in encouraging students to put their heart and soul into something they enjoy.
"If you're waiting then you're missing something," said McCollum on advice for aspiring photographers, "once its gone, you can't get it back."
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