Elvis, my friend who is a photographer and educator based in Alberta, tasked me with addressing the question, “What is the significance of photography and why do we capture images?” He had previously posed this question to his students and was anticipating their responses.
When I presented this query on an online platform, I received a range of answers. Some were mundane, such as “Because I possess the ability to do so” or “Because I own a camera.” However, amidst these responses, there was a profound insight shared by an individual named Soenda, who articulated, “Photography has enhanced my perception. Previously, I was oblivious to the play of light on leaves, the symmetry of birds perched on wires, or the nuanced hues of sunsets.”
Another contributor, Laura, expressed a more philosophical viewpoint, stating, “Photography serves as a testament to my existence and experiences. It embodies artistic expression, and stifling our creative impulses only hinders our well-being. Capturing images brings me joy, and dedicating a day to photography is time well spent. I aim to adorn my grandmother’s home with floral photographs, as it brings her happiness, and spreading joy is a noble pursuit.”
Reflecting on my own relationship with photography, I realize that it evolves over time. Sometimes, my focus is on experimenting with equipment, delving into the mechanics and functionalities. During these moments, I might simply state, “I am testing this for future reference.”
There are instances when I contemplate how a particular subject, whether a building, tree, or car, will translate onto my computer screen or as a large print. Photography also serves as a means to preserve memories or document specific subjects.
I am an avid collector of images that capture my interests, ranging from detailed documentation of home renovation projects to candid shots of loved ones and pets. Moreover, photography has been my livelihood for over three decades. Like Soenda, there are times when I strive to visually convey my perspective to others through my work.
For many, photography is a medium for artistic self-expression that is accessible and liberating, requiring only a camera to convey one’s vision.
The history of photography traces back to Jacques Daguerre’s first surviving image in 1837, depicting artistically arranged plaster casts. Within a mere two decades, photographers were traversing the North American landscape, capturing moments with a fervor comparable to contemporary times. Photography emerged not only as a tool for documentation but also as a mode of artistic expression.
The act of capturing images serves various purposes. It chronicles historical events, such as the Civil War through Mathew Brady’s lens or the Vietnam War through David Kennerly’s eyes. Renowned photographers like Ansel Adams and Imogene Cunningham imparted their visual interpretations of American landscapes, while others like Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans sought to depict the human condition during the Great Depression.
Figures such as Arnold Newman, Richard Avedon, and Yousuf Karsh celebrated portraiture, aiming to exalt the beauty of human expression through their lens.
The question “Why take pictures?” elicits diverse responses, ranging from the philosophical, as expressed by Soenda and Laura, to the practical. Soenda highlights how photography enhances perception, while Laura emphasizes the act of capturing moments as a testament to a life well-lived. I invite readers of this column to contemplate their own reasons for engaging in photography.
Wishing you safety and creativity in your endeavors. These are my reflections for the week. For further engagement, reach out to me at www.enmanscamera.com or [email protected].