Lorissa Renfro — Montana
Course: Summer Intensive 2012
To say RMSP changed my life would be a huge understatement. For me SI was more than a breath of
fresh air, it was a whole pitcher of ice cold water. It woke me up to my own photography, quenched
my artistic thirst and filled me with more knowledge and more experiences than I could have ever
hoped for.
It's mind blowing how quickly this school changes your life. As one of the youngest students in SI
2012 - I started out terrified, and I didn't believe my photography was good enough. My group (Group C)
gave me the courage to be myself. They critiqued my work, helped me with my questions and talked me
though all the highs and lows. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about all these guys have
done for me. When my camera began to have problems, without hesitation, several friends handed over
their cameras to help me out. I know that no matter where I am in the future, I will always have this
network of fellow photographers to bounce ideas off of.
This school isn't easy. In fact it may be one of the hardest things I have ever done. But is it worth
it? Yes. 1000 times over! The teachers are all incredible and they will challenge your photography and
help you through your struggles. I enjoyed learning how my camera worked, working the images in Lightroom
and then seeing them slide out of the printer. This summer has been a journey, one to find myself. I never
understood how much was involved with the photographic process. It’s so much more than hitting the shutter;
it’s an art and a daily challenge to find how to express yourself and it’s a gift to take light and time
and bend it into something to hold on to forever.
If you are considering attending RMSP all I can do is urge you to put it off no longer. This school offers
a unique learning environment that you won't find anywhere else. Because of this school I have more confidence.
I have learned that I am an artist, my camera is good enough, my photos are worth money, and that I am now a
professional photographer!