Why I Chose Photography

Like many other people, I hate having my photo taken. I hate the way I look, especially on camera. I’m just one of those people that struggles to be photogenic. And that’s okay. It’s why I initially picked up the camera when I was 10. I have loved it ever since.

I appreciate that an alternative would be to be more confident in who I am, but that’s a story for another day. Since then, I have developed my skills and broadened my interests in what I enjoy photographing.

Initially I loved taking portraits. People and animals have the ability to show who they really are in a fraction of a moment. That split second where someone’s guard is down is such a powerful moment to show who they really are. Their vulnerabilities, their passions, their honest opinions. It’s all written on their faces. I love seeing the spark in a person’s eyes. Their story written in the lines in their skin, the freckles, scars. It is truly fascinating.

Due to my introverted nature, I struggle to actually ask people for permission on the street, it’s a talent in itself. It’s why conventions are appealing at times from a creative standpoint. People are very willing to have their photos taken and model for you. It’s great for practice and to meet like-minded people. Compared to in normal circumstances. It is a lot to ask someone to be vulnerable in front of a camera. A truly talented photographer will be able to draw out their subject, without putting pressure on them. It’s something that I work on every chance I get.

The camera also works as a shield in a way. I use it to help me ask to take people’s pictures. To be able to speak to people that I otherwise wouldn’t. I’ve used it to stop me from being afraid of heights. There was one time I crawled out towards the edge of a cliff to get the great shot. I was still miles away from the edge, but I got closer than I otherwise would have.

Another benefit to being an introvert, is that I’ve adapted to taking landscapes as well. When you’re jonesing to take photographs but can’t find a willing subject, you adapt and grow. I missed taking photographs so much, that I had to keep going. One of the hardest things was to learn how to create a sense of intimacy in landscapes. To draw the viewer in, to keep it interesting and fresh. I’m still learning, and I know I have so far to go, but I am so proud of some of the landscapes I have taken so far.

Covid was another driving force to learning how to be a better landscape photographer. It’s been hard to take portraits when you’re social distancing. Those long Mental Health walks on the other hand, are great for taking stock of the world around us.

I have so much to learn and so far to go, but I look forward to spending more time observing, learning and developing (pun not intended).