Photography: Connection

The reason I love photography

The greatest aspect that photography has given me is connection.

It has brought me closer to almost everyone in my life. I almost always have my camera on me, but there are many instances where I never use my camera; in those moments, I’m usually being present and don’t think that that moment would be better if it were captured. I’m very intentional about when to take a photo. I believe this is where photographers differ from many cell phone photographers.

There are times I do take out my camera and start taking photos. In these moments, I try to ensure it doesn’t break being present for the subject or me.

I’ve been fortunate to photograph precious moments of individuals, couples, families, and friends. Through the process of taking photos, I get to connect with them in ways I wouldn’t have had the opportunity without it. Often, it is reflection and gratitude for what they currently have; often, it takes a third party to remind people of what they already have. That would be enough to justify the process. The fact that they get wonderful photos to remember a specific moment of their lives is the cherry on top.

For me, photography is a selfish activity. I get so much out of every shoot I do. It could be learning to be a better technical photographer, challenging myself to get a specific shot, relaxing my mind with some landscape photography, etc. But the most incredible feeling is learning about other people’s perspectives and learning how to improve my life.

I love seeing people not trying to be perfect because their genuineness is best. I love seeing some musicians find so much emotion in a song that they cry while they play it. I love seeing parents completely worn out, knowing their child had a wonderful day full of love and learning. I love seeing hard work pay off and people celebrating it with their biggest fans. I love hearing about people's challenges and how it made them stronger. I love seeing people being genuine because their friends encourage them to be. I love seeing the behind-the-scenes people who make everything possible. I love seeing people grow over the years. I love hearing about what’s next and their dreams.

As sappy as it sounds, photography opened my eyes to what it means to be human. I’m inspired by everything and everyone I photograph.