The Story:

I believe in the power of photography & art to inspire and create change in the world. ‘Spinning Compass’ is a photography project about travelers, but even more than that, it is about encouraging people to take risks. I have learned through this project that people will give you so much more than expected, if you just ask.  The most incredible experience I have had while working on this project, is interacting with the people that I have photographed.  Everyone has been so kind and interested in the project, the participants have been truly amazing. 

This project began in June of 2011 in Nepal, and has since continued in New Orleans, Louisiana, Maui, Hawaii, Jerusalem, Israel, Istanbul & Olympos, Turkey.

I have plans to continue in 5 more countries around the world.  Ultimately publishing a book with all 10 countries represented.

When I arrive in a destination, I set up a backdrop on the side of the street in a popular tourist destination, and stop people walking by. I ask them if they are traveling, then take their portrait and ask them to fill out a questionnaire with 12 questions.

These are the questions:

01. How long have you been traveling (or) living here?
02. What is your main reason for being here?
03. Is there an element of spiritual enlightenment to your journey here, pls explain?
04. What are you reading?
05. What are you carrying with you that has no practical purpose & why?
06. Is there someone that you are missing (& or) who are you traveling with?
07. If you could be anywhere in the world, where would you be right now?
08. How old are you? Where were you born? Where do you live?
09. What are you doing next?
10. What’s your Facebook status update?
11. What do you like (or) dislike about being here?
12. How do you spend most of your time here?
13. Please write down your email address, if you would like to see the pictures.

I will post a picture of every single participant on this blog.  I plan to finish the photography part of this project by September 2012.  I will begin working on a book with all ten countries represented as soon as I have finished the photography.

I started a Kickstarter campaign to help support the project in January 2012, the funds will help with the travel costs for the project.