Be the light. No really, be the light. Oft times we hear the masses exclaim, “its all about the light”, and they would be partly right. The quality of light is something we need to be keenly aware of. However, the light I’m speaking of is your own. The light we see is one thing, the light we bring to the act/process of image making is another thing. Ansel Adams said it this way, “You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, and the people you have loved.” Freeman Patterson says “The camera points both ways.” It sees what it sees but is also a reflection of you. Your light if you will. By the way, this includes the bad mood you’re in, feeling tired, feeling overwhelmed, the argument you just had with your spouse, etc, etc. The energy from this kind of light may or may not be a good thing. It depends on how you choose to use it and what type of images you are making. Just know that your light whatever that is, will become part of your images.
[Tweet “Be the Light”]
Another stunning image.
Love this post, too. It’s uplifting.
Sort of related, when people say: I could have taken that. My response: But you didn’t see it the way I did. I love that aspect.
Thank you Alice. Great comment.
“May the Force be with you!” ~ Obi-Wan Kenobi
I would add, “May the Force of the Light be with you! Through the Lens and Through your Eyes (mind, body and soul)!”
I too believe that the Light ignites our body and soul within. Even on dark gray days, there is some light shining through. As for our inner thoughts and mood, darkness can come from within, even on a bright sunny day. As in our settings, I believe that we have the ability to allow more Light within us and have the ability to see more. Photography is very personal, emotional and not simply point and capture.
Through the Lens and Through the Light what we capture as photographers is a reflection and transformation from what we have within. Our visions… Our perspectives… Our thoughts… Our response and reactions… Our creations from our passions… and drive to press that button to ultimately capture the moment illuminated by the Light outside and the Light within.
May the Force of the Light be with you!
Good post for a season of lights. Whether one is available light or flash (or somewhere between as we travel the spectrum), your point is well taken. Our emotional tone & attitude affects EVERYTHING we do, though the images we take & make often are the clearest display of where we are.
Indeed Marty, Indeed.
That’s a very nice post, John. I do enjoy some of the quotes of famous photographers, and the two you include in this post really resonate with me.
The photograph wasn’t too shabby either!!
Thanks Michael.
Great words John! Thanks!
Always appreciate you kind comments Joan.
Your narrative and image are awesome. The words, so spot on. Like I said, you’re the Wayne Dyer of Photographer’s. Your words are inspiring.
And you area very kind Lisa.
Nicely stated, John. Thanks for the reminder.
Thanks for stopping by Dan.
Yet another beautiful, peaceful image, John! And so very appropriate a topic for the eve of the shortest day of the year. Many thanks for this shot and your thoughts, and thanks again for all the inspiration and great advice you have provided us throughout the year. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and the happiest New Year. 🙂 Slainte!
and thank you for your support Bruce.
Well said, John. Love the depth of this post and the image is lovely, too.
Appreciate it Brenda.