Thursday 04.15.2010 | 1:23 PM EDT

Talent Show: Olivia Bee Photography

This post is most definitely not about me, me, me. Bear with the introduction for context.

Talent Show

I’ve been striving to become a decent-ish photographer for 10 years. I’ve made decent progress. I’ve played the drums since my 20′s. I’ve made decent progress. I’ve been writing since high school. I’ve made decent progress. I’ve been a designer for 10 years. I’ve made decent progress.

I frequently lament not having found direction at a young age. I misspent my teens and 20′s listening to pop music and chasing girls like Pepé Le Pew. Ok, maybe not misspent– girls and pop music make the merry-go-round a much sweeter ride. But it wasn’t till my 30′s that I found a semblance of direction and discipline.

Today I found the work of a very talented photographer. She appears to still be shooting film. Her technique and use of natural light is impressive. Her subjects reveal a love of people and a keen interest in the world around her.

She is 15 years old.

In this age of violent video games, social networking, texting, media saturation and the host of other dubious distractions of youth, it’s an inspiration to see someone finding her purchase at such a young age.

A brief sampling below, but treat yourself to her portfolio at Olivia Bee Photography.

all images © olivia bee photography