January 20, 2017

Meet Venice Photographer and Journalist: Don Bell

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Don Bell.

Don, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Time is the only entity in life that can’t be conquered, compromised or controlled. For that reason, a picture isn’t worth a thousand words, it’s worth a moment in Time. I’m obsessed with capturing fleeting moments and appreciating them to the fullest.

My love affair with photography started when I was 16 and blossomed through a self-taught approach to the craft.
Over the years, I’ve been featured in solo exhibits across the country from Miami Beach to Venice Beach. I also have a burning passion for journalism. I’m currently the Sports Director and anchor at CBS 3 in Philadelphia. Before that, I anchored FoxSportsLive and ESPN’s SportsCenter.

Ultimately, I’ve been a working journalist for more than a decade and I’ve been shooting photography for nearly two.

Has it been a smooth road?
Smooth road? Nah! If winning were so easy, losers would do it. Photography and art, in general, is a subjective endeavor. I’ve been rejected by some galleries and accepted by others. There has been, and always will be, some sort of resistance to your vision. But that’s what makes it worth while.

Do you feel luck has played a role in your life?
Not much! I’ve had the good fortune to be in the right place at the right time on a number of occasions. But I believe luck is when opportunity meets preparation.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The ability to truly connect with people beyond a surface level. Authenticity is important and so is creating a fun, comfortable environment for those who you work. I’m happiest when I’m creating and I have a way of spreading that joy.

What do you love about our city and what do you dislike?
What do I like best? How much time do you have?! L.A. is a city of dreams, hope, theatrics, serenity, and chaos. You can find whatever your heart desires on any given day. What do I like least? Traffic, DUH!

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