Meaning: The quote by John Sexton, "We all start in this medium because of the magic and the challenge is to keep it going," speaks to the initial allure and fascination that draws individuals into a particular field or medium. In this case, Sexton is likely referring to the medium of photography, as he is a renowned educator and photographer. However, the sentiment expressed in this quote can be applied to various fields and endeavors.

Sexton's words capture the essence of the initial inspiration and motivation that propels individuals to embark on a journey within a specific medium. The "magic" he refers to encapsulates the sense of wonder, excitement, and limitless possibilities that accompany the beginning of any creative or professional pursuit. It signifies the joy and enthusiasm that come with discovering a new passion and the potential for self-expression and growth within that medium.

Moreover, Sexton acknowledges the "challenge" of sustaining this initial magic and momentum. This aspect of the quote emphasizes the perseverance, dedication, and continuous effort required to maintain one's engagement and creativity over time. It speaks to the inevitable obstacles, setbacks, and periods of stagnation that individuals encounter as they progress in their chosen medium. The challenge lies in overcoming these hurdles and finding ways to reignite the initial spark that ignited their passion.

In the context of photography, Sexton's words hold particular significance. Photography, as a medium, is rooted in capturing moments, emotions, and stories through the lens of a camera. The magic of photography often lies in its ability to freeze a fleeting moment in time, evoke powerful emotions, and communicate narratives without words. This initial enchantment with the medium motivates aspiring photographers to explore the world through their lens and share their unique perspectives with others.

As photographers continue to develop their skills and build a body of work, they inevitably encounter challenges that threaten to diminish the initial magic that drew them to photography. Technical limitations, creative blocks, and the pressures of the industry can all contribute to a sense of disillusionment and waning enthusiasm. Sexton's quote serves as a reminder to aspiring photographers to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and to find ways to reignite the magic that first captivated them.

Beyond the realm of photography, Sexton's quote resonates with individuals in various creative and professional pursuits. Whether it's writing, painting, music, entrepreneurship, or any other field, the initial allure and excitement of starting something new can eventually fade as the realities of hard work and perseverance set in. The quote encourages individuals to embrace the challenges and setbacks as part of the journey and to find ways to sustain the magic that inspired them to begin.

In conclusion, John Sexton's quote encapsulates the dual nature of embarking on a new journey within a particular medium – the initial magic that sparks inspiration and the ongoing challenge of maintaining that magic over time. It serves as a poignant reminder to individuals in all fields to embrace the inevitable challenges and setbacks while striving to preserve the sense of wonder and passion that led them to begin their journey.