In this dynamic environment where we make our livings not only from the tried and true sources but also in new, dynamic and often self-driven ways, its refreshing to see Gerd Ludwig pursue one such new approach.

To mark the 25th anniversary of the nuclear accident at Chernobyl, Russia, Gerd is using kickstarter as a way to help fund the next phase of his coverage of the fallout from the disaster.

This is a body of work that needs to be done and Gerd is the right person to do it. He has been making pictures of Russia for more than 20 years, including Chernobyl.

You can learn more about his project here and join the Facebook presence here.

I had the pleasure of working with Gerd on two stories - Berlin and Toronto - while a picture editor at National Geographic magazine. He is a consummate story teller and exceptional image maker, of course.

I applaud his effort in taking on new approaches to funding such an important project. I hope you will support him as well.