Category Archives: The Path {Introspection}

March 23, 2011 · 1:00 pm

The Path: The Ridiculous Myth of Being “Self-Made”

                                     Image by Travis Levius.  All Rights Reserved.

It’s commonplace for societies to accept vocabulary that seem stat quo; hearing the term “self-made millionaire” or “self-made entrepreneur” for most of my life, then, caused no adverse or dynamic reactions.   It wasn’t until I heard it mentioned recently, being on this journey of mines, that it seriously rubbed me the wrong way, especially as I’m on the same path that some may identify as a “self-made success story.”

Whatever you do- please- do NOT call me, or anyone else, “self-made.”

Being “self-made,” at least what it sounds like to me, means that your success and riches and big breaks came from you and only you- no help from anyone else.  Sure, you may have devised the genius idea that’s now in demand by the millions, or became a catalyst to an impactful movement around the globe, but didn’t you have a team beside you to make these things possible?  On a fundamental level, didn’t people encourage you at the beginning stages, helping you with resources and contacts while you were still building, offering advice when asked?  Not even the headstrong Trump relied only on his own strength and diligence to reach the stratospheric heights of wealth and prestige he enjoys today.   

Who is that unfortunate person to advance on his journey, make it to his destination, and not be blessed and transformed by incredible souls along the way? 

Yes, I am where I am because of my commitment to hone my talent, my determination, and the hours upon hours I’ve Continue reading →

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January 17, 2011 · 12:41 pm

The Path: MisterLevius.com’s 1st Anniversary! {Reflection}

One year ago, on my birthdate, I launched my new blogsite to the Facebook and Twitter universe.  The very first post was about overcoming my own fear of my new project’s outcome, and daring for others to do the same in their endeavors in 2010.  I was unsure of whether it would fly or fail…so what’s the verdict?

  • With marketing limited to my personal Facebook profile (no fanpage), Twitter, and my e-mail signature, MisterLevius.com has received 14,000+ views.
  • My site was the vehicle for securing top interviews with people such as comedian Steve Harvey and fashion designer Rachel Roy.
  • I’ve received e-mails and messages from people, some I’ve never met, letting me know my site/work directly inspired them in someway…with some even changing their path with immediate advancement.

With these three reasons alone, it’s quite clear: everything I had hoped this website would be to the world, it has become. The most exciting part is that this is only the beginning: I intend to receive hundreds of thousands of webpage views…a month.  By Year Three.

Thank you thank you thank you to all who have supported my blogsite and photography work since January 7th 2010.  Once the smoke settles and things calm down (I’m going through a LOT of changes and challenges right now in London, more on that story soon) I will be even more transparent with what the life of a dreamer is like- including the uncomfortable components.  I must remind others, and myself at times, that though trials, challenges and pain are inevitable on the road less traveled, the pure passion and enthusiasm for what fulfills you will always soften the blow.

Here’s to another full year of excitement, expectation, and inspiring the world,

Travis Levius

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December 31, 2010 · 12:40 pm

The Path: 2011…Sky is the Limit {Only If You Say So}

                    Image by Travis Levius.  All Rights Reserved.

There is something in the air…

Do you sense it too?  If you’re unsure, check the statuses of your friends on Facebook  and other social media sites.  Thirteen years ago it would’ve been enough to simply say “Happy New Year!”- but now everyone has their own spin of inspiration, wisdom, and ecnouragement attached to this upcoming period.  It’s evident that many don’t see this as another year…people are excited, and feel as if they are on the brink of something great in 2011.

Ha..people speak of the end of the world, when I feel humanity is actually starting to emerge in the right direction- using positive energy, a desire to live their best lives, a willingness to share uplifting words and experiences to others.  A higher collective consciousness perhaps?

  There is so much to say, so much I want to share, but Iwill keep this short: If you do feel 2011 is your year- RUN FOR IT.  Believe it and believe it wholeheartedly, and let no one deter or jinx the better you that is to emerge.  Personally, though I can truly say 2009 and 2010 were fantastic years, 2011 will be my TRUE year of greatness.  I fully believe everything that I’ve worked hard for, the challenges I’ve been through (and continuing to go through) will finally show its fruit and will show it abundantly.  

Readers, EXPECTANCY is what ushers your dreams and breakthroughs into reality.  So my charge for you is to EXPECT much, and GIVE much- giving as much of your Light and talents to your world so that the powers that be can truly honor your pursuits.

Cheers to a New Year…

Cheers to a New LIFE Ahead.

Live from London (and yes I am still here ;) )-

Travis L.

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December 13, 2010 · 10:04 pm

The Path: Excuses I Could’ve Made (Important Post!)

(CAUTION: This testimonial post might really set some people free.  TWEET this, EMAIL this, FACEBOOK this to anyone you think would benefit from this post!)

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In 2009, upon my college graduation, I had to make that necessary step of deciding my career, an occupation that would begin shaping my entire life path.  Soon after I received my Sociology diploma I decided, with only looking UP at how amazing I felt when I take photos and not DOWN at all the obstacles, that photography was the career I’d pursue.  A year later…I’ve become an international photographer with clients under my belt that others don’t acquire in 5 years in the profession.

BUT HOW WOULD THINGS HAVE BEEN IF I BEGAN TO MAKE EXCUSES?

The list below highlights true-story “setbacks” and “obstacles” that “threatened” my pursuits in this one-year span of following my dreams.  The responses, however, show me giving in to them.  Take a look:

  1. I don’t have a lot of money; getting all the equipment I need is impossible.
  2. I didn’t go to school for photography; I’m not qualified to shoot this.
  3. I’ve only been doing this for a year; no one will take me seriously.
  4. All I have is an inexpensive amateur-level camera and lens;  I can’t possibly do paid gigs with this.
  5. I don’t have my own personal computer- my desktop crashed  2 years ago; I can’t do photography without my own computer.
  6. Moreover, I don’t personally own Photoshop software; I can’t possibly get what I need done.
  7. Every single photographer has a $4,000+ professional system…all I have is a $700 one; I can’t shoot Fashion Week-  I’m going to look like such a novice.
  8. These potential event company clients I’ve researched are super-professional; I’m not going to call, they’ll probably find someone much more experienced.
  9. My budget is super-limited and, again, I don’t have my own personal laptop with Photoshop; forget going to London for Continue reading →

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November 28, 2010 · 3:25 pm

The Path: Why I Do What I Do

A MESSAGE RECEIVED FROM M. BLAU, ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC WRITER

Hey Travis,

I can’t help but message you after constantly seeing all your great work since I met you… it probably seems like a long time ago considering where you have gone in a 6-month period.

While I have been writing about music and slowly working my way up through that world, I just wanted to say thanks for, in a way, opening up the doors for me to pursue photography.  Before, I never really considered becoming a photographer as a way to further improve my work–and I always looked for others to handle that portion of my concert coverage.

After being exposed to your work since, it’s made me feel more comfortable jumping in, especially doing so in a seemingly crowded field with little to no experience.  And while I’m still getting my feet wet as a photographer (I got my first SLR in July), it’s made a world of difference in such a short time.

Anyway you’re probably beyond busy right now, so I’ll keep this short. But thanks for the indirect inspiration, continue doing what you’re doing (as if you didn’t already know that).

Take care,
M. Blau

(A FEW WEEKS LATER)

Travis,

It’s amazing how things have gained steam so quickly. Since I wrote my first message to you, I purchased my first quality lenses and I shot my first show with them last week (Big Boi at the Tabernacle: http://www.flickr.com/photos/maxblau/sets/72157624948545707/).  Beyond it being an awesome shoot, I was contacted by Big Boi/Outkast’s drummer about doing a photo shoot for him. Needless to say, it’s kind of overwhelming considering I’ve never done a photo shoot, nor have studio experience so far. But I guess I’ll have to roll with the Continue reading →

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October 19, 2010 · 7:08 pm

The Path- DEBRIEFING: Mister Levius Does Fashion Week

To anyone that may have just discovered this website and peruse the recent New York and London Fashion Week images, one might automatically assume that these were done by a professional photographer with years under the belt with high-end equipment.  Or even better, these may have been taken from a major media outlet website.

If this is the case, I have some interesting news for you.

What you see on the site is a benchmark of a young man’s ambitious goal to photograph two of the world’s most exclusive events within ONE YEAR of learning how to use a DSLR camera.  When I realized I wanted to be a photographer in April 2009 (21 at the time), my photography education was Youtube.com tutorials and my equipment list stopped short at a Sony Cybershot digital camera, fitting snugly into my pocket.

And now, after many impossible breakthroughs and personal accomplishments in a short time, I am fulfilling two of my ultimate dreams: shooting the runways at NY and- by a thread- London Fashion Week.  Though a little bruised from all the difficulties and setbacks along Continue reading →

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October 6, 2010 · 7:38 pm

The Path: Thinking Like the Masses Gets You NOWHERE

CONSIDER THIS:

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Too many people are too doubtful and afraid to go for their dream job because “It’s a crowded field” or “The odds are slim”…this type of destructive thinking is EXACTLY why the few in any given industry are the ones on top.

Think about it: every single person that has prospered in one’s field most likely have done so by having the attitude of “I’m going to prosper.” None of them carried on worried about their profession being a “crowded field,” but approached their career with an unshaken focus…not odds-based caution.

It is then your choice to:

1) Be like 97%+ who don’t go past the THOUGHT of their dream career working out or

2) Position yourself like the very few who DO make it and choose to win regardless of “competition.”

Choose #2 and I guarantee you will go farther than what these so-called “odds” have dictated over your passion.

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September 19, 2010 · 3:29 pm

The Path: (One) Mission Accomplished! But Where Does it Start?

[Me in front of the Lincoln Center]

Perhaps I should refrain from saying “dreams” because that tends to scare many, or conjure up this mystical, hardly-will-ever-happen scenario. For this post, let’s just call them “goals.”

My “goal,” as ambitious as it is, was to photograph New York Fashion Week and feed my passion for the runway with only one year’s worth of photography under my belt.  With planning as my foundation and determination as my fuel, I have accomplished the goal I set for myself and experienced much more than I could’ve imagined:

-Spotting rising model star Henry Watkins at the corner of my eye on the “A” train the first day of Fashion Week, meeting him and then seeing him again walking the runway at the Tommy Hilfiger runway show.

-Seeing legendary fashion photographer Patrick Demarchelier attend front row at designer’s shows

-Standing right next to fashion icon Andre Leon Talley at Manolo Blahnik’s (and so nervous that I didn’t say anything!) then later on in the week redeeming myself and meeting him after the glorious Oscar de la Renta show.


-Meeting the iconic New York Times street fashion photographer Bill Cunningham who, at the age of 81, is still as youthful and passionate about capturing great moments through his lens.

-The networking!  The networking was stupendous- editors, stylists, illustrators, models, etc.

-Shooting amongst all of these “Hall of Famer” photographers and videographers in the media pit.  I may take good photos with a one-year career, but amongst these 5+ years experienced photographers I was surely just a rookie.


-Photographing the world’s TOP models such as Karlie Kloss, Coco Rocha, Chanel Iman (!!), Freja Beha, Continue reading →

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September 14, 2010 · 12:25 pm

The Path: DEBRIEFING, “Mister Levius Does Fashion Week”

Image by Travis Levius.  All Rights Reserved.

To anyone that may discover this website and peruse the recent New York Fashion Week images, one might automatically assume that these were done by a professional photographer with years under the belt with high-end equipment.  Or even better, these may have been taken from a major media outlet website.

If this is the case, I have some interesting news for you.

What you see on the site is a benchmark of a young man’s ambitious goal to photograph one of the world’s most exclusive events within ONE YEAR of learning how to use a DSLR camera.  When I realized I wanted to be a photographer in April 2009 (21 at the time), my photography education was Youtube.com tutorials and my equipment list stopped short at a Sony Cybershot digital camera, fitting snugly into my pocket.

And now, after many impossible breakthroughs and personal accomplishments in a short time, I am fulfilling one of my ultimate dreams: shooting the runways at NY (and possibly London) Fashion Week.  Though a little bruised from all the difficulties and setbacks along the way, I stand triumphant and convinced that one can truly do anything if you believe you can- and willing to work for it.

When you view these photographs, you are also viewing a real-time glimpse inside someone’s journey to success.  You are getting more than the iconic model faces of Karlie Kloss and Jordan Dunn on the catwalk- you’re seeing a clear-cut demonstration of what happens when you live an inspired life.

And to be direct, my experience from pocket camera to Fashion Week in one year would not mean much if it doesn’t inspire other people like yourself to go for their dreams…which is why I created this website.

I took the risk to go for one of my dreams…and I made it.  The second part of my dream is to shoot London Fashion Week, which happens in a few days.  It’s a more difficult goal since it will require a money level I haven’t reached yet ($500 short)- but if I’ve made things work this far, and I keep believing, you might witness a dream extended even further.

The “Support!” tab is still up for anyone to contribute to my pursuits-

www.MisterLevius.com/support

I’d be so happy if you, reader, could help me carry out this amazing goal… I’m this close to getting there.

Until then, I’ll continue experiencing and photographing the remainder of New York Fashion Week- and attempt to take this all in.

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August 31, 2010 · 2:54 am

The Path: Departure Notes/Higher Sounds: Caia- Remembrance (August 31, 2010)

Image by Travis Levius.  All Rights Reserved.

I’m typing this post 6 hours before my one-way flight to New York City.  Many people I’ve come across this past week would ask me, “So are you ready?”

My standard answer was: “As ready as I can be.”

It’s been 8 months since my very first post on fear…and that it does not go away when you make big risks or decisions.  Sure I’m overwhelmed, sure I’m holding my breath figuring out how I’m going to raise necessary funds by September 9th, sure this move truly hasn’t hit me yet.

Ta-daaaaa!  Transition is meant to be necessary, not comfortable.

Atlanta served as training grounds for the career I’m about to embark on…I’ve been listening to my inner voice for months and it says it’s time for the next chapter, a higher stage, a strong push to become the best at what I do.

But I am grateful that I can call Atlanta my homebase: the support here from friends, acquaintances, and complete strangers who in 5 minutes of talking to me declare “You’re going to do great things/You’re going to be famous” is truly overwhelming…and confirming of God’s plan and gift He’s given me.

Now’s the time to impact New York City.  Let the next exciting stage of this journey begin.

Now for one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard to complement this once-in-a-lifetime experience:

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