“Photograph what you feel, not just what you see… I believe Ansel Adams once said something along these lines. There’s also the idea of creating photographs as a personal form of creative expression, a message I resonate with deeply. Both of these perspectives hold significant meaning for me because photography has become a meditative practice, a way to channel my emotions and find calm in the midst of my own struggles with anxiety.”
In today’s world, nearly anyone with a camera can create a perfectly lit, in-focus image and instantly share it across countless social media platforms. Yet, the more I see this, the less inclined I feel to share my own work in this way.
It seems that the true essence of photography is gradually slipping away. When I read blogs, participate in forums, or watch videos, the conversation often revolves around how well the camera performed or how technology could be improved—faster autofocus, sharper lenses, endless technical advancements. But what’s missing is the heart of the matter: the art of capturing a moment, an emotion, a feeling. It’s not about the perfection of the equipment, but about what we want to express and convey through our lens.
There are moments when I take my dogs to the same spot on my property, camera in hand, and create photographs. The setting is serene, the light softly filtering through in a way that feels almost magical. My two dogs, always eager for my company, are the perfect companions for these quiet moments. With them by my side, in a place that holds so much meaning for me, I feel a deep sense of purpose in capturing their joy and presence amidst the beauty of our surroundings.
It’s no longer about chasing likes or competing for popularity; it’s about preserving the special moments that, while simple, hold deep meaning when I look back on them.
Over the years, I’ve taken countless photos at events, capturing people in their fleeting moments, but lately, I’ve been feeling that this isn’t the direction I want my creative journey in photography to take. Last night, I found myself watching Sean Tucker’s videos on YouTube. If you haven’t yet come across his work, I highly recommend it. His insights are like nourishment for the creative soul, offering so much to reflect on.
What I’m realizing is that my creative path needs to evolve—focusing on capturing more thought-provoking images, creating memories that resonate, and expressing myself more fully through the lens.
Lately, I’ve found myself feeling disconnected from the very things that once filled me with passion. Life, when we rush through it without pause, can drain the creative energy that once felt so alive. I’ve been consuming so much imagery and content online that it feels as though I’m overfed yet undernourished in my imagination. The days slip by, and moments that should be filled with wonder are instead becoming monotonous, even forgettable.
What I realize now is that my soul is craving something deeper—something that breathes life back into my creativity. I need to wander, to explore new spaces where inspiration can flourish, where my mind can find solace and renewal. I’ve set a simple goal to reignite my passion: I want to venture out and photograph wild horses. There’s something about their untamed freedom, their natural spirit, that I hope will spark a new wave of creativity within me.
This isn’t about checking things off a to-do list. It’s about embarking on a solo journey with purpose, a quiet quest to rediscover what feels lost or stifled inside me. I hope this experience will bring the awakening I’ve been yearning for.
Stay tuned for what’s to come…
