This post was stirred by Scott Bourne when asked why he pursued the career of a photographer. His answer, “Because I want to do something that matters.” I really had to stop and think about that for a minute. I know I take photographs because it’s an enjoyable hobby, to nurture the creativity within me and to share my vision of this world but I had never stopped to consider if it mattered or not.
He suggests we can protect our memory of a scene with our cameras which is true with the weddings and portraits we shoot. I believe we often walk through life without being present to the here and now. We can easily get lost in our thoughts and miss seeing the small sprouts of a flower breaking through the soil on an early spring walk, or miss seeing the farmer plowing his field, or the pelican as it effortlessly circles above us, or the children waiting for the school bus, etc. Photography has helped me to see the world as it is at that very moment, even if it’s 125th of second. I also see the world using different lens. I’m learning to see things up close and take in the scene that’s taking place across the street. It all matters to me.
So, do you think your photography matters?
8 Comments
Earl
Well there’s no doubt that it matters to me and to all those whose photography blogs I read. If it didn’t, why would all of us go to the trouble. 🙂
There’s more photographers in the world at this moment then any previous time in history. I believe there’s an inherant quality in photography that draws people, not only to record what and how we view things but to also give birth to individual creativity, convey ideas and to mark we were here and we existed.
Monte Stevens
Nicely said, Earl! I like your words, “giving birth.”
Paul L.
Thanks for the link, Monte. It was an interesting, if short, read. I, however, make no distinction between amateur and professional, other than the payola. Both do it for the love of it, perhaps, and, at least I think so, that it is equally important whether or not you do it for the bux. It’s a daily discovery. It’s a reminder to always be aware, in the moment.
Monte Stevens
You also have said it well. I agree, if someone is only shooting for the money, it is not a love, and there are some out there. Its’ one of the first things I think about in the morning.
Don
I think most non-pro photogs like myself have a passion. We are making images of families, outings, old buildings, travel, local areas, etc. Are we making a difference, I think so but I think the photographers who have really made a difference are the photojournalists that have photographed wars, elections, assasinations, weather disasters, the Depression, 9/11 etc.
Everyone with a camera making a picture is making a difference one way or another.
Just my opinion.
Monte Stevens
I’m glad you feel that way. Let’s keep shooting.
Ann Courtney
This made me think and also made me shift my standpoint a little. For the last 2 years photography has been my therapy. A very successful one too. Perhaps I have been selfish in this respect and perhaps it’s time to take a different view. Thank you for the nudge.
Monte Stevens
I’m glad my thoughts nudged you. Now it’s time for us to shoot and show the world. You already have some wonderful images on pbase, a good eye and great creativity in the different challenges they have on that site.