We recently had the chance to connect with Ric Westman and have shared our conversation below.
Ric, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I am usually up about 430am, grab a coffee and a quick breakfast and then it’s out the door to find something to photograph. Lately that has been at a small lake about 20 minutes from my house where a pair of bald eagles reside, I call them Willie and Flo. Willie is there most days but Flo not so much lately. I spend anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours waiting for Willie to grab a fish.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a wildlife photographer living in the Kansas City area where I photograph most rapports. I have been doing this for about 12 years now and have had a number of my photos published in a couple of Kansas magazines.I make yearly trips to Florida in late fall and early spring, while in the winter I head north for eagles.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My marriage to Susan, my current wife. She has had faith in me since we first met and has always been a source of encouragement and support. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her and I wouldn’t want that any other way.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid of yourself and failing. I was withdrawn most of my life and because of that I missed out on some personnel life experiences, didn’t do somethings because I was afraid I might fail or make a fool out of myself. All I had to do was try, learn from any failures and become a better person.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
That there is no life after death, our souls may linger but it is for only a fleeing moment in the span of time.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I grew up without any idea of what to do with my lifer any directions. My father was an alcoholic and my mother worked to keep us feed. I believe that I have always had to desire and drive to be a photographer . I wish I had a lot more time and resources to visit all the places on earth that are waiting for someone like myself to photograph them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ric_westman
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicWestman
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/ricwestmanggp/ (Gray Ghost Photography)
