My first serious project was photographing badgers - very, very difficult as they are shy and nocturnal.
If quantitatively the American achievement is impressive, qualitatively it is somewhat less satisfying.
I have a company in New York City producing music for commercials, for radio, TV, features, etc. That's how I've been making my living. And now the company is very successful - to the extent that I can afford to come out and play.

