Life Lessons from Annie Leibovitz At Work

When I’m asked about my work, I try to explain that there is no mystery involved. It is work. But things happen all the time that are unexpected, uncontrolled, unexplainable, even magical. The work prepares you for that moment. Suddenly the clouds roll in and the soft light you longed for appears.  — Annie Leibovitz, Annie Leibovitz At Work

Earlier this week at the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue Annie Leibovitz discussed her new book, Annie Leibovitz At Work.  She shared photographs ranging from the Nixon resignation to the Rolling Stones, from A-list actors to world class athletes, from inside war torn Bosnia to inside the OJ Simpson courtroom.  As the photographs appeared on screen Leibovitz read from her book and shared what the situations taught her about her craft.

Much of what she shared last evening, and in the book could be life lessons for us all.   Early on in the talk, Leibovitz described how she was enveloped in to the rock and roll culture during her time on the road with the Rolling Stones.  She felt she needed to be part of the lifestyle to photograph it well, yet walked away from the experience understanding the need to holding a little bit back for herself.  This is important counsel for us all – regardless your vocation.  It is all to easy to become consumed by work, especially if you love what you do.  Finding equilibrium allows you to be your best and gives you perspective to continue growing in your life and work.

In the book Leibovitz writes “I had the nagging feeling that magazines were the wrong road, that working for one was selling out, but feeling guilty is not a bad thing.  You should always question what you do.”  Our instincts guide us.  Too often, we allow our lives and careers to unfold before guided only by inertia.  We ignore the feeling that something just isn’t right.  The voice in your head is a signal to pay attention. Take some quiet time to think things through and make conscious decisions about the road you are traveling.

She spoke about coming to a shoot prepared, having researched and conceptualized, yet being willing to recognize what was in the moment.  She writes about learning to see and being allowed to find the image.  We all know that, no matter how much we plan, things don’t always happen as we had imagined.  Being nimble enough to recognize opportunities as they unfold is vital to success.

Leibovitz writes and speaks of her craft with such a quiet joy and in doing so, gives us a glimpse of life through her lens and some powerful life lessons.