Thursday, October 28, 2004

Strange, I don’t feel thinner

Well, I’ve been "downsized." Joy. I see this as a challenge and opportunity rolled into one. Somehow, it's "best" for me. We'll see what presents itself.

The bad part about working for one of the best photo departments is everyone is great. When it's time to trim the tree, there’s no deadwood. So, they must cut those closest to the ground. I wish I could've been the only one let go. My heart goes out to the others. Hang in there kids.

At least it's an amicable break. I got a severance package and can freelance while I look for a staff job elsewhere. I don't believe anyone wanted to cut staff, but it happened. I appreciate the many calls I've gotten from remaining staffers. I have utmost respect for them. Each caller has offered to be a reference.

Consequently, if anyone knows of a cozy staff job or possibly a professorial position, please direct them toward my resume or let me know. I'm revamping my portfolio today. It should be online Friday morning. I’d prefer Texas, Florida, California or other southern states, but I’m open to whatever’s available. Cancun would be nice. :)

I'll freelance and do other local gigs in the short term. I've considered going independent and starting my own photo biz. However, I'd rather just work at making images for folks rather than fiddling with all the biz stuff. We'll see what happens by the end of November.

I'll continue to post while I seek a new home. It's not like I forgot all this stuff in my head. Actually, I'll probably post more frequently since I'll probably have more time on my hands for a while.

Enough for now,

7 comments:

marco said...

mark, very sorry to hear about your situation. your pics are excellent and your blog is incredibly informative and helpful to so many. have you thought of supplementing your work with teaching?

best of luck in your search for a new position and freelancing.

Mark M. Hancock said...

Thanks! This will turn out OK. I was scheduled to start vacation yesterday. Now, it'll be a bit longer than expected. ;-)

Marie said...

Mark,
It is remarkable that you have such a positive attitude about your situation. I have always found that when one door shuts, another one opens...I just have to be on the lookout. I hope you keep on blogging because I have learned so much from your lessons. You are a true pro. Good luck and if I hear of anything opening up, I'll let you know ASAP.

Mark M. Hancock said...

Michael and Marie,

Thanks for the kind words. It means a lot to me.

We updated the portfolio and started sending e-mails. I know this isn't the way it's done in textbooks, but if I'm moving across the planet, I want to get this done. ;-)

Andy Smothers said...

Mark, keep your head up my good friend. You are my inspiration...as a PJ and so much more. Your keen, witty and insightful commentary is simply amazing. The only thing certain is change...of course --- so they so when it doesn't happen to them. Truly best wishes for you...if anyone deserves the best, it is you. Your unselfish nature and true kindheartness will continue to take you to the top. You are my friend and hero, Mark. Thanks for everything you have done to make me a better PJ and person.

-Andy

Nicole said...

Mark, I'm so sorry to hear about this. But you're good, and I feel confident that you'll find work soon. Best of luck!

Mark M. Hancock said...

Thanks y’all. We’re looking forward to the next step and preparing to move. In any case, I’ll be a fresh eye for a new community.
Andy, I may land closer to you since I applied to two papers in your neighborhood.