No Answer Is Still An Answer: WCG: Ultimate Gamer Season 2

I have a lot to say about competitive gamers, gaming culture and the gaming industry. Perceptions of what is real, what is valuable and what is sellable are obviously subjective. But this weekend, I got a strong confirmation that my perceptions and beliefs are not only valid and evident, but also that they are shared.

World Cyber Games held open call auditions for their second season of Ultimate Gamer this weekend, and I went to shoot some portraits. I was excited to see so many people I already knew. And thrilled to meet even more for the first time. Different than a tournament, this gathering was more like a convention. Many people knew each other already, or had a friend in common. Some even met people they'd only watched, heard about, played against or talked to online. And there was a genuine sweetness to the thrill they got from actually getting to wait around in the same room as someone with in-circuit notoriety.

And yet, these connections were totally accessible. There was no autograph signing. No crowds. Just like minded individuals hanging out. In fact, the great equalizer, is that they all were trying, hoping (some with better chances than others) to make it onto this show. A show that, with all it's debatable shortcomings, or canny networkiness, has the best chance of pinning its thumb down on the beginning of a new era for pro gaming and the gamer-as-celebrity-athlete.

That chance rests less in big name sponsorships and high-profile brand exclusivity than it does in the fostering and presentation of gamers as a community. Not a union, yet. Not a demographic. And certainly not a stereotype. But an intelligent, fun loving and semi-serious group of diverse human beings. Relatable and with personal drive and feelings beneath the base coat of "ass kicking". There are interesting stories there.

Okay, I could go on and on. Please look for upcoming video vignettes that I also shot this weekend. I think they can speak better than I can.

Many thanks to all the excellent people who sat for portraits and interviews this weekend. I look forward to seeing you all again soon.