Stepping stones

Stepping stones

As I step away from ePHOTOzine I realise I leave an industry I've been deeply involved in for the last 36 years, either selling, using or writing about the equipment I've grown to love.

My career started in retail where I learned about what photographers looked for when buying. I was in a fortunate position to get my hands on gear before the public. Working in a camera shop that dealt in used gear gave me a knowledge second to none about past and present photography.

To help fund my pastime as an enthusiast photographer I started writing techniques to illustrate the photographs I took and I soon made a change of career into journalism. It's where I've spent the second half of my time in the industry, and it has been the most rewarding.

Thanks to the photo industry I've made many great friends and enjoyed meeting many well known photographers.

I've also been to most countries in the world, stopped in some of the grandest hotels and enjoyed finest cuisine at some of the best restaurants. I've also experienced countless exotic activities, such as tank driving, simulation flying, formula racing, ballooned over the Alps. I've been briefly documenting some of my days here PeterBargh.com. Please note, this isn't me showing off. - I just wanted to throw away the souvenirs/memorabilia I'd accumulated (decluttering) so I scanned and added these items to an online spot to avoid keeping any physical items. There's much more to add over the coming year when I get motivation to continue the project.

As an editor I've been in a privilege position to be able to see equipment at prototype stage, handling working samples months before retail staff and the public saw it. I've used or handled just about every product made. I've offered opinion to help manufacturers improve product and helped thousands (maybe millions) of consumers make sound buying decisions.

And with ePHOTOzine I have not only helped photographers of all levels improve their craft, which is all I intended to do when creating the site, but I've also helped change many peoples lives, from finding new friends to forming relationships, to career changes and life changing experiences. It's a legacy I'm proud to leave behind for the team to continue.

To all those who I've met through ePHOTOzine, I offer a really big thanks for being part of my journey.

To those who've caused me grief , I hold no grudges...you were just doing / saying what you thought was right.

To all those who've been friendly, helpful, fun...thanks ever so much...you really made everything worthwhile.

What next? To be honest I'm still not decided, but I have plenty of time to make up my mind.