As camera prices continue to rise, it's becoming increasingly common to see people with cameras everywhere you go. In today's technology-savvy generation, cameras are one of the most frequently used gadgets. Whether it's a family event or a vacation, cameras are always present, and even our phones have decent cameras for taking snapshots. Then, there are people like me who are absolutely crazy about photography. We're the hobbyists and enthusiasts who talk, breathe, and think about photography all the time - it's even something we dream about at night.
However, why are we so passionate about photography? As an enthusiast myself, I believe that there are several reasons for this:
Seeing the world in a new light
Literally!
Photography is the art of painting with light. It is one of the very first things you learn when starting photography: that everything revolves around light. Learning photography provides you with a new perspective of the world around you. You start noticing beautiful contrasts and colors that you might have otherwise missed if you hadn't taken up photography. Suddenly, the world becomes more photogenic and you wish you had your camera with you at all times.
Photography makes us appreciate the NOW.
This is very ZEN-like but it's true.
When out on a photo shoot, we are often so absorbed in the present moment that we forget about past or future concerns. This is especially true when shooting landscapes. We become so engrossed in the beauty and serenity of the scene that we're trying to capture that nothing else occupies our minds. The light falls perfectly, the sounds are mesmerizing, and the atmosphere is soothing. It's a meditative experience that releases stress and allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment. Photography can be a form of mindfulness that helps us focus on the present and forget about our worries and concerns.
Meeting a lot of people
Photography provides a great opportunity to meet and interact with various people, each with unique personalities and stories to tell. Whether you're a portrait photographer or capturing candid shots of people in their daily lives, you'll get the chance to connect with your subjects on a personal level and learn about their experiences, culture, and perspectives.
It's a wonderful way to broaden your horizons, break down barriers, and gain a deeper understanding of humanity. And, the best part is that you get to capture these moments and share them with the world through your photographs.
Slowing down and noticing the details
Through the lens of a camera, even the mundane can become a masterpiece. Suddenly, everything is a potential subject waiting to be captured. The flower in your backyard becomes a stunning work of art, and the bees and butterflies flitting around it are like dancers in a grand performance.
You begin to see beauty in patterns and textures that you've never noticed before, like the worn stones of an old building or the winding path of a staircase. Reflections and light take on a whole new meaning, casting shadows and creating depth that you never realized existed.
And people, oh the people you will meet. Each one unique with their own story to tell, their personalities shining through in every shot you take. A smile becomes a thing of beauty, and each expression tells a different tale. Suddenly, the world is full of fascinating subjects waiting to be discovered and captured through your lens
Be able to bring out the best in others
Portrait photography is a unique and wonderful form of photography that allows you to capture a person's true essence and personality. One of the most rewarding aspects of portrait photography is the opportunity to help people show their best and most beautiful self.
A good portrait can capture a range of emotions, from joy to sadness, and everything in between. As a portrait photographer, you have the power to bring out the best in your subjects and make them feel truly special.
In addition to capturing emotions, portrait photography can also be a way to tell someone's story. You can use your camera to document their life and create a visual record of who they are, what they do, and how they see the world.
Overall, portrait photography is a beautiful way to connect with people and to showcase their unique beauty and personality. It's a privilege to be able to capture these moments and to create images that will be cherished for a lifetime.
A good reason to travel
Photography has a way of making every place, every destination, worth a visit. It's not just about checking in or updating your status on social media to make your friends envious (although that's a plus!). When you start seeing the world through the lens, you'll appreciate the beauty in even the most mundane things. You'll find yourself drawn to natural landscapes and the perfect lighting that captures the essence of a place.
No destination will be boring anymore. Everywhere you go, you'll find something to photograph, something to capture and preserve for eternity. Photography gives you a new perspective on the world and opens your eyes to the beauty that surrounds us.
Will give you some "ME" time.
One of the things I love about photography is the ability to shoot alone. Sometimes, I crave solitude and photography allows me to do just that.
Being alone in the wilderness with nothing but my camera and my thoughts is one of the most thrilling experiences for me. It's a time for self-reflection, introspection, and creativity.
Photography can be a meditative practice, and shooting alone allows me to fully immerse myself in the moment without any distractions. It's a time to explore and capture the world in my own unique way, without any outside influences or distractions.
Whether I'm on a mountaintop or by the sea, shooting alone is one of the best activities for me.
Be able to capture moments with family and friends beautifully
Do you remember those old vacation photos that you used to take with your camera? They were not that great, right? However, after learning a few photography basics, you will notice significant improvements in your photographs.
Your family and friends will certainly appreciate your efforts and entrust you to document their special moments. You will capture the memories they will cherish for a lifetime.
A freedom of expression and creativity
The possibilities with photography are endless, whether you're shooting film or using digital technology. From the days of the darkroom to the modern photo editing software available today, the ability to express your vision through a photo has never been greater.
Even Instagram filters provide instant photo editing options, although some may prefer a more hands-on approach to their editing process.
While some may argue that excessive editing can take away from the authenticity of a photo, a touch of creativity can enhance the overall impact of an image. The fun things you can do with photography are limitless, and it's up to the photographer to find their own unique style and approach.
The gadgets are actually fun
Let me confess something to you, folks. I'm not a gear-head, but most photographers are. They're obsessed with gadgets, gizmos, and all things that go click in the night.
We're always drooling over the latest and greatest cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment. We're like kids in a candy store, except the candy costs thousands of dollars.
But let's be real here. Having a fancy camera doesn't make you a good photographer. It's like buying a Lamborghini and then driving it like a grandma. What's the point?
Sure, having top-of-the-line gear is nice, but it's not everything. The most important thing is to have a creative eye and a passion for capturing moments.
So, let's not get too caught up in the gear race. Let's focus on what really matters - taking great photos and having fun doing it, even if it means using a rusty old camera from the 80s.
Try it!
These are just some of my reasons for loving photography, and I'm sure many other enthusiasts out there can relate.
Of course, there are countless other reasons why people might be drawn to this art form. Some may use photography as a means of making a living or helping others, while others simply find joy in capturing and creating images.
If you've never tried photography before, I encourage you to give it a shot. Who knows, you might just discover a new passion!
And for those of you who are already avid photographers, feel free to share your own reasons for loving this art form in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going!
Cheers!
Alex
