Guest Post: Vincent McMillan on TGL Peru 2012

Posted by: Kate | Posted on: February 14th, 2013 | 0 Comments

TGL Participant and Toronto Photographer Extraordinaire Vincent McMillen talks about this time with TGL: Peru. 

When I first read about The Giving Lens, I heard about it through Colby Brown on Google Plus. I looked at the cost of going and realized I could make ends meet. I figured learning from the best in the business wouldn’t hurt as I really wanted to learn more about photography and diversify my landscape portfolio. What I actually got in return was beyond valuable.

The volunteer aspect of the trip really intrigued me. That part sold me on applying for the trip. I loved the idea of spending time with Picaflor House Community and volunteering our time to help grow awareness for this fantastic NGO. Instead of just travelling to a third country and photographing it; being a part of it and helping people who live there was much more rewarding. Having the opportunity to photograph Machu Picchu was also a big bonus while I was there too!

What The Giving Lens provides for you is honestly incalculable. At first it’s strange telling people at home you’re going to meet with a whole bunch of people you haven’t met in some distant land to take photos. But when you get there – wow! The fun never really stopped. My group immediately bonded – it was like hanging out with old friends all over again. I learned how to take better pictures from everybody. I soaked up everything like a sponge. I asked (and asked and asked) so many questions while I was there so I wouldn’t stop learning. I helped when others asked me questions. We were all there to make a difference; providing expertise, knowledge, and thoughts made the entire experience better.

I’d never hesitate to travel with The Giving Lens. Simply being there to help make a difference really makes you a better person, photographer and a human being.

We are still taking Applications for our TGL: Peru 2013 trip, to jumpstart a Photography Club at Picaflor House and make the journey up to Macchu Picchu once again! More Info Here!