Puerto Rico, Nikon, Curtis Mayfield, and Me...

There are moments in your career when you know that something's special is about to happen. I call them, "Vision Spots". They're the small things that remind us of the possibilities of greatness when our dreams are in motion.

Prior to my recent trip to Puerto Rico, I had that familiar feeling of knowing that something special was about to unfold. However, that feeling didn't come without serious opposition. The day before I left I had to purchase a new Nikon D750, assist my elderly uncle, and manage tons of other adult responsibilities. Fortunately, I know that there's always sun on the other side of rain clouds.

It was my first trip to Puerto Rico, and I'd heard from many of my friends how beautiful it was. So while our flight was descending I could see much of what they'd told me about. The small villages and beaches along the coastline. I knew that when my feet hit the ground that I couldn't be anything less than pleased. Before all of the excitement of working in a new location hit me, the reality of the ever so dreaded luggage fight sunk in. Even that turned out not to be so bad, because shortly after I grabbed my luggage I look up and see one of my former college football teammates. That moment confirmation that it was going to be an amazing trip. I quickly realized that I was going to be having a number of inner sidebar conversations with myself about how this trip was going to flow.

I also came to the fast conclusion that I wasn't going to paying twenty plus dollars every time I want to go somewhere. So when we arrived at the hotel wouldn't know that they had courtesy bikes! The big fella had FREE wheels.

My Ride

I took advantage of the early morning rides. I put on my "Beats" and road out at 7 am to tunes of Curtis Mayfield. The soundtrack reminded me to see the world the way that I see it. It was a reminder that the humanity that I capture stateside, should also be captured along its' borders. So I took my new Nikon D750 and maximized the moments.

Dominos

Cocco Man

Older Couple

Real People

Don't lose your purpose. Take it all in, and see the world the way that you see it...

Puerto Rico, Nikon, Curtis Mayfield, and Me!

To be continued...

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Vision Beyond The Lens by -J.J. McQueen-

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