They why behind the name.

If you had to change your name, what would your new name be?

BY: SodakArtist

To be honest, I’ve thought about this a lot. I used to want to change my name from Shay English to anything else. However, I’ve come to appreciate my name because it carries strength and a strong family heritage. If I had no choice but to change it, I would choose “Sodak Artist,” my artistic name. This name represents who I was before my ego death. As we all know, naming oneself can be seen as forming a new ego. During my ego death, I created a new ego without even realizing it when I chose the name Sodak Artist.

I love this version of myself—someone eager to learn new things, embrace creativity, and even start a whole new career. I transitioned from 15 years in construction to pursuing a career as an artist, specifically in photography. Photography is still art; it involves posing people to enhance their appearance and teaching myself how to sell their own pictures to them. This journey has been transformative and fulfilling, making “Sodak Artist” a name that resonates with my artistic identity and new path in life.

“Sodak Artist” is more than just a name; it represents my journey of self-discovery and transformation. My transition from construction to photography was not just a career change; it was a profound shift in how I view myself and my purpose. Photography allows me to express my creativity and see the world through a different lens—literally and metaphorically.

In construction, I built structures; as a photographer, I build moments and memories. Posing people, capturing their essence, and creating images that resonate with them is an art form that requires empathy, patience, and a keen eye for detail. I’ve had to teach myself not only how to take great photos but also how to market and sell them, which has been a rewarding challenge.

Choosing the name “Sodak Artist” signifies embracing this new identity wholeheartedly. It reflects my willingness to break free from past limitations and explore the boundless possibilities of creativity. This name carries the spirit of growth, resilience, and a passion for art that I have come to cherish.

In essence, “Sodak Artist” embodies my evolution from a life defined by routine and physical labor to one enriched by artistic expression and innovation. It’s a name that honors my past while celebrating the person I am becoming, and it serves as a constant reminder of the transformative power of art and self-reinvention.

Embracing the name “Sodak Artist” also marks a significant shift in my personal philosophy. The concept of an ego death, which played a pivotal role in this transformation, is about shedding old identities and beliefs that no longer serve us. For me, it meant letting go of the rigid, conventional path I was on and stepping into a more fluid, creative existence.

This new name reflects my commitment to living authentically and passionately. Every photograph I take is a testament to my journey and the new skills I’ve cultivated. Whether it’s capturing the perfect light, framing a shot, or engaging with my subjects to bring out their best, each step is a part of this evolving artistic process.

“Sodak Artist” is a name that symbolizes not only my artistic endeavors but also my courage to start anew. Transitioning from construction to photography wasn’t easy; it required a leap of faith, resilience, and an openness to learning. However, this journey has been incredibly rewarding, teaching me to see beauty in everyday moments and to appreciate the subtleties of human expression.

Ultimately, the name “Sodak Artist” encapsulates my journey from a life of predictability to one of endless possibility. It’s a reminder that we all have the power to redefine ourselves, to embrace change, and to pursue our passions with unwavering determination. This new identity allows me to connect deeply with my art and the people I photograph, making each day an opportunity to create, inspire, and grow.