Reflections on Photography, Life, and Art
Walking in Philadelphia: Reflections on Photography, Life, and Art
What’s Poppin’ People?
It’s Dante here, strolling through the streets of Philadelphia with my hood up on this chilly day.
Starting the Day: Elevation and Espresso
Every day begins with a need to escape confinement. Modern life can feel like being caged—like animals in a zoo. I don’t want to be a caged chicken; I want to roam freely, free-range style.
- Morning Routine:
- Slam an espresso.
- Head straight out the door.
- Avoid the confines of four walls.
Walking to an elevated, open space connects me to the vastness of life. It’s a reminder that the world is infinite, full of possibilities.
“I think the goal is to remain an amateur forever—to never feel like a master, to always have room for curiosity.”
Photography Workflow: Constraints That Liberate
Lately, I’ve been shooting with the Ricoh GR IIIX. My settings are minimal:
- High Contrast Black and White
- Small JPEG Files
- P Mode: Single-point autofocus, automatic ISO (minimum shutter speed of 1/500s).
- Aperture Priority Mode (AV): Adjust exposure compensation, keep it simple.
These constraints free me creatively. By setting limitations, I focus on composition and storytelling instead of the technical.
“You cannot make the same photograph twice. Light changes, we change, and everything is in flux.”
The Joy of Remaining an Amateur
There’s immense joy in staying an amateur. It keeps photography playful, like a visual diary of life. Treating every walk as an exploration fuels curiosity—the ultimate goal in life.
- Snapshot Philosophy:
- Capture the mundane.
- Treat every photo as part of a bigger story.
- Embrace the imperfections and surprises.
“Photography is art, even in its most candid and unposed forms. The goal is to respond to life as it is—raw and unfiltered.”
On Flux and Creativity
The philosophy of Heraclitus—“You cannot step into the same river twice”—resonates deeply. Photography embodies this concept. Every moment, every shot, is unique.
“The world is a canvas, a playground for creation. By following our curiosity, we can make beautiful works of art.”
Switching to black-and-white photography two years ago was transformative. It liberated me to:
- Embrace high-contrast aesthetics.
- Explore new subjects like sculptures and landscapes.
- Break free from the monotony of past habits.
The Dichotomy of Chaos and Order
Philadelphia is a city of contrasts. On one hand, there’s the bustling chaos of markets and streets; on the other, serene spaces like Lemon Hill Trail. This balance inspires my photography.
- City Streets: A paradise for street photography—gritty, raw, and full of character.
- Green Spaces: Nature trails offer solitude and beauty.
“Philadelphia’s architecture—like the Wanamaker Building—is a testament to human creativity, combining sculpture, music, and design into a transcendental experience.”
Reflections on Nature and Seasons
The East Coast’s changing seasons keep life dynamic. Winter has its charm, but there’s always a yearning for the next season—spring’s renewal, summer’s warmth, autumn’s colors.
“Nature is chaos and order intertwined. Leaves fall, decay, and grow again. This cycle mirrors life’s constant motion.”
The Importance of Play
Photography isn’t just about capturing moments; it’s about playing with them. Experiment with compositions. Photograph sculptures, landscapes, and mundane objects. Reinvent yourself.
“Stop trying so hard. Open your mind to possibilities. Find joy in the everyday.”
A City of Endless Inspiration
Philadelphia offers the perfect balance for a photographer. The gritty streets and serene green spaces make it an ideal playground for creativity. Growing up in Andorra and Roxborough gave me a deep appreciation for community and exploration—building teepees in the Wissahickon forest, sharpening spears, and riding bikes.
“I suggest moving to Philadelphia if you’re a street photographer. It’s a city of raw charm, beautiful architecture, and walkable streets.”
Closing Thoughts
As the sun sets earlier in winter, I’m reminded of life’s brevity. But the key is to keep walking, to keep exploring, and to remain curious. Whether it’s the streets, the trails, or the changing light, every step is a new opportunity to create.
“Can you just walk all day? I feel like this is where we should be as photographers—walking endlessly.”
Stay curious, stay creative.
—Dante Sisofo
