09/11/2024
I have faced criticism for viewing the world through a lens, especially during beautiful moments. For instance, when I snap a picture of a sunset, a passerby might say, “You know, you’ll enjoy this more if you just look at it with your eyes instead of your camera,” or “Dude, get out from behind your camera and enjoy the moment!”
They often overlook the many ways to appreciate a moment. Some people choose to see it with their eyes, others capture it in a photograph, and some do both. Each of us seeks our own path to fully embrace and be present in the moment. Respecting these diverse perspectives is crucial, as it allows us to appreciate others’ experiences without imposing our views. Gaining deeper insight can inspire us to explore and understand different viewpoints.
Personally, I discover a richer enjoyment of the world when I explore perspectives beyond what my eyes can see. Our vision can easily miss the beauty right before us, which is why I carry a camera on hikes and nature walks.
Take this photo, for example. I captured it on a stunning summer day when the sun radiated brightly overhead, dancing behind magnificent cloud formations in the blue sky. In that beautiful moment, I noticed so much more unfolding around me.
As I focused on the filtered light passing through the clouds, I adjusted my camera settings to limit the light reaching the sensor, waiting for the perfect moment to click the shutter. In doing so, I captured a world entirely different from what my eyes saw—a world I would have missed had I not sought another perspective.
This moment would have faded into oblivion without anyone knowing of its existence.
Indeed, there are many ways to enjoy the moment.
