
Thomas W.P. Slatin, a published urban exploration photographer and writer, stated in a recent interview that his interests and talents in writing and photography were revealed by the age of eight. In this inspiring interview, he encourages others to “follow their dreams.” Continuing, “few know that my father, a scientist by profession, was passionate about photography. When I was eight, my father gifted me a basic 35 mm film camera. It had the most basic settings, and utilized 100 or 400 ISO film.” At the age of twelve, Slatin recalls receiving a Canon SLR 35 mm camera from his father, Dr. Harvey L. Slatin. The camera came with a 50 mm focus lens. According to Slatin, “it became my most prized possession.” Thomas Slatin utilized this camera to photograph and document his childhood. Also at a young age, around the age of six, Slatin recalls having an “insatiable fascination with the written word,” filling his shelves with books to build a makeshift library. Advice that he shares with his online audience is to truly stay the course to “do work you love” and to “follow your dreams.” “My parents thought perhaps I should have become a doctor or an astronomer, ” states Slatin. Possibly due to his father knowing, as well as highly regarding, Carl Sagan. Years later, Slatin described a day at school, while in class where his teacher selected his writing work to exemplify what the work of a good writer looks like. Slatin continued to state, “what I knew then and what my parents did realize is that my motivation to write and photograph images, and my passion for exploring was something I was born with, and meant to do. “
Thomas W.P. Slatin shares his journalistic style writing work which he often bases on his own life, as well as his urban exploration and nature photography on his blog, www.tomslatin.com. Many of his images are available on Canva and 500px.com. He has contributed to various publications as a writer to discuss photography technique, motivation and inspiration. Slatin has had several of his photographs selected by Jones Soda Company’s to appear on their actual soda bottles. Thomas Slatin’s passion and work as an urban exploration photographer has lead to the restoration of a property by a real estate developer on at least one occasion, paraphrasing Slatin. In his closing remarks of the interview, he reminded all to reflect upon and consider the following questions, “are you doing the work you love and staying authentic in your true talents and abilities”? To reach out to him email, tom@tomslatin.com.
Meldred Judith
Following his hearts desire is the key to his success. All must know what their hearts desire and wants.
miakayuuki2012
Some people find it early some spend their whole lives finding it. If you find it early it is best to hone it and maximize it as one of your skills. To parents support the kid for his/ her talent can benefit the future.
Oyeyipo Oladele
Timely discovering of yourself is the best. It shows the Slatin must be a family with focus. Keep it up TOM.
Segun OGUNYEMI
Follow your dreams – this alone should encompass all other things. Keep the expression of the writing high. Thanks for sharing and credit to Lisa too
jolly555
I will always applaud your dad for believing in your talent and pushing you to become who you were suppose to become. You are really doing awesomely.
Rae
This is just so inspiring. Love the post that you’ve made today. Thank you so much for sharing this!
esgyll
It’s really wonderful to already know your true talent and calling when you’re still a young child. It just makes the journey towards adulthood even better in my opinion.
brainedet
I sometimes wish I didn’t throw away my talent of singing. I will have made wise use of it now. All the same I will start afresh. You are my inspiration.
Danielle M
It feels really nive when professors encourage the students and recognize their talents. I’m glad that you followed your dream.
David Mureithi
I’m about to move to something I love. It can make you visit places you dreamed.
Maury Cheskes
Tom’s a great inspiration to all art lovers and those passionate about their dreams. He has a very distinguished style that often focuses on mundane or out of touch commodities which he sparks life into with his creative eye. I can’t wait to see more of his pieces and share my thoughts on his raw material.
Thomas Slatin
Thank you, Maury! I have a lot of new material to share, and you will not be disappointed.
Richard (Dick) Woodhouse
You are indeed a genius in every chosen aspect of your life. I am proud to call you my friend.