Presence
Some of the best photography advise that I have heard is that often the secret to an amazing image is to simply “be there” to take the photo. After all the technical aspects of photography are learned and the non-technical development of an “eye” for good composition is mastered all that is left is for the photographer to actually be on location when an opportunity comes together for a beautiful image. Often one may see an incredible photo and say “I could have taken that picture” but the fact remains that you didn’t. Another way I have heard this from a friend that shoots professionally is to “keep shooting!” Not only does this repetition improve skills, it also provides opportunities that will never happen the exact same way again.
What I find extremely satisfying about landscape photography is that it is an opportunity to focus and be truly present in the moment. When the sun is slowly rising or setting and the colors are in constant almost imperceptible change. When the tide at the beach has receded to just the right point to reveal an engaging foreground of glistening rocks or the fiery red and orange of an Autumn forest scene is lit up by the setting sun one realizes in this moment that while there may be future moments that are similar, this particular moment will never happen again. If you have ever been presented with a rapidly changing dramatic scene of light and shadows that are dancing in front of your camera’s lens you may be familiar with what can be a frenetic feeling to “get that shot” because you can sense it slipping away. Taking the time to get on location early before the desired light so the composition can be set up can allow you to have more time to simply wait for the light and be more present in the moment.
Being present in the moments of our life is similar to this. First of all, “be there”. Make sure you are present for those moments of your children’s lives as they grow. Be there for the sports events and the school plays. Take that road trip with your kids to see something amazing. Go on that amazing cruise with your spouse. Take that backpack trip or climb that mountain. Create memories and be present both in your body as well as your mind because the moments we have are slipping away as quickly as that sunset or those perfect fall colors and we can never get them back.
James 4:14 reminds us of the need to live in the present and the fleeting nature of life. “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” We cannot be guaranteed about tomorrow and yesterday is already past so treasure today! If our life is spent always worrying about what has happened and what might happen tomorrow we may one day find that we lived our years and were never actually there to enjoy it.
Thank you for taking the time to read these thoughts today. It is my hope that these writings are a blessing in your life. Feel free to add your thoughts in the comments!
