The Path to Minimalism
What’s popping, people? This morning, I’m out walking in the snow, making some photographs, and thinking about minimalism—the path to becoming the Uber minimalist.
The high-contrast black and white looks incredible against the snow—so much white, so much contrast—it really pops. Today’s Christmas Eve, and I’ve been reflecting on shedding all the excess in life.
Clearing the Clutter
Something clicked this past weekend. I decided it was time to start throwing stuff out. I stacked up about 15 to 20 trash bags and tossed them down the trash chute. It felt so good. Old camera equipment, cables, wires, chargers—stuff I haven’t touched in years—gone. Even books, socks, and clothes I don’t need anymore.
“It felt really good to just get rid of all the clutter and excess stuff I don’t use.”
Minimalism in Action
As I’ve been going through my photographs—physical prints, digital files—I found myself frustrated. I realized I couldn’t focus on organizing my work because my physical space was a mess. My closets, cabinets, and drawers were weighing on me.
My Minimalist Tools
I’ve started simplifying every aspect of my life, including my kitchen. I’ve ditched the unnecessary cutlery and glassware for simple, minimalist tools:
- Wooden bowls and plates
- Wooden spoons and chopsticks
- A simple wooden chopping board
It feels so much better to have fewer, higher-quality items. Next, I’ll tackle my wardrobe. I’m already donating clothes and gifting items to friends. I even gave away my Ricoh GR II and an old GoPro—stuff I just don’t need anymore.
Mental Clarity Through Physical Decluttering
It hit me:
“Before I start culling my photography, I need to cull my physical environment.”
I couldn’t work through my photos until I worked through my closets. It’s all connected. Cleaning my space gave me a sense of mental clarity and freedom. There’s something about having less—it clears your mind and lightens your spirit.
Traveling Light
Minimalism isn’t just for my home—it’s how I travel, too. I’ve always preferred to keep it light:
- A backpack
- My camera
- My iPad to back up photos
- Just enough clothing
When I travel, I bring mostly clothes so I don’t have to worry about laundry. Other than that, I keep it simple. The only time I packed heavy was for the Peace Corps—it made sense for two years of living abroad. But even then, I found joy in traveling light.
“Traveling light and feeling light is the way to freedom.”
Preparing for 2025: Becoming the Uber Minimalist
With the new year approaching, I’m stripping down to the bare necessities. Getting rid of stuff feels like shedding a layer of skin. It brings me joy and helps me focus on creating new art, ideas, and thoughts.
“The more stuff I accumulate, the more it clutters my mind.”
My goal is clear: call through the clutter, clear the space, and start fresh for 2025. There’s something about this process—this shedding of the old—that makes me feel ready to take on the new.
A Clear Mind, A Clear Space
The snow this morning feels symbolic—a blank slate, a fresh start. Before I can organize my photographs, I have to organize my life.
“True freedom isn’t about what you own; it’s about what you let go of.”
Letting go is the first step on the path to minimalism. As I walk through this serene, snowy landscape, I feel lighter, freer, and more focused on what truly matters.