I’m a Top Writer in Photography

Summary

Bruce Coulter, a photographer and writer, has been recognized as a top writer in photography on Medium, reflecting on his journey, the significance of his work, and the balance between humility and self-promotion.

Abstract

Bruce Coulter, who has contributed extensively to his community through photography, awakens to the unexpected news of being named a top writer in photography on Medium. Despite feeling under the weather, he shares his surprise and humility at the recognition, questioning whether it's due to the quality or frequency of his writing, or the appeal of his images. Coulter acknowledges his efforts in self-promotion, a necessary skill on Medium, while also admitting he's not the most skilled photographer in his area. He takes pride in his work, which includes donating thousands of digital images to the historical society, and sees this recognition as an unexpected honor and a part of his legacy.

Opinions

Coulter expresses a mix of pride and self-deprecation, acknowledging his achievement while keeping his ego in check.
He believes that self-promotion is crucial for success on Medium, despite his natural inclination to be more modest.
Coulter values the impact of his photography on future generations and its potential historical significance.
He is grateful for the recognition by Medium and considers it an honor to be among the "Medium elites."
Coulter encourages reader engagement by asking for claps and comments, offering to reciprocate the interaction.
He uses the opportunity to promote a charitable cause, Dining for Hunger, by accepting tips that directly support the organization's mission to end food insecurity.

I’m a Top Writer in Photography

Does that mean I write well or often?

I guess this makes it official.

I went to bed looking like the crap I scrapped off my shoe last night. It’s always a good time when you come down with an unexpected cold or whatever it is I’m in the throws of — sickness, foolishness, ugliness. Take your pick. Either way, today’s gonna suck.

But at 4:23 a.m., I felt the urge to brag, scream from the top of the mountain or pat myself on the ass. Frankly, the latter sounds best. But I digress.

After looking at my stats on Medium — because that’s what newbies do — I opened my email to check the night’s spam offerings. What’s at the top? “Congrats, you’re a top writer in photography on Medium.”

I’ll be damned. But I must ask, does this mean I write well, or just often, or do I make pretty pictures?

I seldom blow my own horn. But I’ve learned it’s a must on Medium. Sure, I have an ego, but I keep it in check. And that’s probably cost me a few gigs as a photographer. I also know I’m not the best photographer in town.

I’ve seen many writers who are “Top” in numerous categories. Having read their posts, I have to agree. But here I am, amongst the Medium elites. Ha! Still, it’s an honor I was not expecting, and I’m grateful for the recognition from Medium.

I started my career photographing events in my community. Over the years, I’ve donated thousands of photos — well, jpg files — to our historical society. I like to think that someone will find my photos sometime in the future and wonder who I am. I’d call that a worthwhile legacy.

Look at me blowing my horn.

If you’ve read this far, thank you for stopping by. Lay 50 claps on me and comment, if you would please. I will return the favor. Cheers!

I accept tips, which go directly to Dining for Hunger, a recognized 501(c)(3) organization that looks to end food insecurity. If you can spare a dollar or two, I’d be grateful.

PHOTOGRAPHY

I’m a Top Writer in Photography

We Should All Be Loved in Our Lifetimes

Being alone is okay; being loved is better

Viewing Boston Through a Monochrome Lens

Black and white can change how we see things

Between a Father And His Son

My old man and the late, great Ted Williams

Being Alone and Being Lonely Are Not the Same

I wanted to pick up the phone and realized I had no one to talk with