Beauty is vital for humans to thrive. The more we stray from beauty, the more our culture decays. We are all cut from the same branch, and the potential for beauty exists within everyone.
Why is Beauty So Rare in Our Modern World?
Created in God’s Image
Beauty is a natural, physiological quality that every human has the potential to possess in their face and body. But in cities, beauty often fades because of the modern lifestyle—people are kept indoors, inside ugly offices, sacrificing their physiology for money. Over time, the result is the decay of the bodies and faces of those who live this way.
The Power of Architecture
I believe in the power of architecture and the profound influence it has on the people within a city. City Hall, for example, is a grand and beautiful structure from the outside, yet inside it’s uninspiring. The lighting is harsh, the offices are stuffy and cramped, and there’s a lack of natural light. These environments erode the spirit.
“Even the glass structures that people funnel into every day to go to work are not beautiful—they must be destroying the soul.”
Imagine the toll it takes on one’s natural beauty after years of working in spaces that lack harmony and inspiration. If we could bring back beauty—in our buildings, our environments, our daily lives—perhaps we would all thrive a little more.
For a while, I thought the goal of life was to be happy, to find joy through my photography. But the more I consider the meaning of life, the more I realize that it has nothing to do with happiness. Happiness is an easy state to achieve. Just stand under the sun, go for a walk, feel the ground beneath your feet in a park. Happiness is simple.
So, What is the Goal Then?
We are biologically hardwired to reproduce—to ensure survival through offspring. Of course, this isn’t something that everyone must do, but I believe this is the endgame in nature’s design. Yet, parenthood brings new burdens, ones that can be detrimental to personal health and freedom. So perhaps the true goal is something else: to seek out bigger challenges, problems to solve, and to create solutions that benefit ourselves or others.
My Current Goal
Right now, my goal is to increase my strength each day in the gym, to focus on my physiological health and well-being, and to produce more art. Each photograph I create feels like a piece of me—my legacy, my contribution.
I consider destruction as creation. When I think of the fall of Rome, I can’t help but imagine how we would’ve never reached this point in history without it. Perhaps modernity itself is the result of the fall of Rome.
Destroy Your Past Self
Being nostalgic for the past is ill-advised. It seems wise to forgive and forget, to hold no regrets for past actions or wrongs done upon you. To move on and evolve requires the destruction of your past self.
Become a Super Soldier
Imagine that you’re funded by the United States military, using every moment of your life to become the future Spartans of the world. How will you live your life?
To Create More Is to Become More
Once you become a Spartan, channel all of your energy into increasing strength, charisma, and courage. Beautiful art should be created by beautiful people. Remove any degeneracy from your life—whether it’s alcohol, smoking, weed, or porn. We should not indulge in these earthly pleasures.
Let the Chips Fall as They May
Once you’ve destroyed yourself and are ready to become more, it’s time to embrace the chaos. Speak the truth, be playful, but take no sleights from people. Follow your gut instinct, your curiosity, and have no fear. Let the chips fall as they may and create something out of nothing.
What’s poppin, people? It’s Dante, and today I’m walking around City Hall here in Philadelphia, thinking about perspective – how everything is, at its core, perspective.
When I think about perspective, naturally, I think about photography. It’s looking up, looking out, trying to capture the architecture around me from a unique angle. In photography, the way we position ourselves and our cameras essentially determines the outcome of the photograph. It’s a straightforward concept, but there’s more to it. How we see and perceive the world – that’s what ultimately shapes our view of life. And I mean this both physically and metaphorically.
Philadelphia: A City of Contrast and Beauty
To me, Philadelphia is a beautiful city. It’s full of grand architecture, filled with amazing people and a unique, diverse charm. Walking down Market Street, I hear the chaos – cars honking, people shouting, others caught in tough situations, smashing and bashing things. There’s homelessness, there’s addiction, and a rawness that can feel intense. Yet, perspective is everything. The way we perceive these nuances in our city, our lives, and our hometowns makes a difference.
I find that without order, there is no chaos, and without chaos, there is no order. Thriving in that intersection – balancing the chaos with the order – is where I find my success in both photography and life. It influences how I feel both emotionally and physically. This is my hometown; welcome to my neighborhood. People talk a lot of smack about Philly, calling it dirty or drug-ridden.
“Maybe we have to blame the District Attorney, Larry Krasner, sitting inside that office there. But look, what can we do about it but change our perspective?”
Changing Perspective to Unlock Flourishing
Imagine “flourishing” as an attribute in a video game like Skyrim. You know how you can level up different traits to 99? What if we could level up our flourishing to 99? What would that mean?
It means looking at the ups and downs.
It means finding beauty in the ugly as well as the beautiful.
It means championing every aspect of our environment and seeing meaning in it.
Whether I’m photographing a piece of trash, a crack in the sidewalk, or something people might normally ignore, I try to make those things worthwhile. Photography lets me shape my world.
“You can create a new world in a fraction of a second.”
Capturing something meaningful through the act of making pictures gives my life meaning and shapes my perspective on what’s around me.
The Power of Photography: Creating Order in Chaos
“I don’t need to go anywhere in this world but within my own mind, within my own perspective, to make any detail, any moment, any place, person, or thing beautiful – and worth uplifting in a photograph.”
This is, to me, the power of photography. It enhances the way I see things. With a camera in hand, life becomes clearer. Without it, maybe the chaos could feel overwhelming. But when I have the camera, I get to put order within my frames. I give meaning to life, affirming each moment and every nuance of my city.
Photography as a Superpower
The ultimate superpower of photography? The ability to create a new world with a camera. Everything around me becomes infinitely fascinating and worth relishing in. This – this is what it means to flourish. Perspective allows me to see even the most mundane, banal things as interesting, providing an endless lust for life.
And that’s it. Just a few thoughts I figured I’d share. Maybe some of it makes sense, maybe not – who knows?
In the story of the Israelites, we see a powerful journey from bondage to liberation, a journey that reflects the inner struggles we all face in our lives. From slavery in Egypt to the freedom of the Promised Land, the Israelites’ path teaches us about faith, resilience, and transformation. Here, we’ll explore this journey in depth, drawing parallels to our own lives and the courage required to leave the “wilderness” for a place of freedom.
Slavery in Egypt: The Chains of Oppression
The story begins with the Israelites enslaved in Egypt, burdened with harsh labor and suffering under a merciless Pharaoh.
“So the Egyptians made the Israelites serve with rigor and made their lives bitter with hard bondage.” – Exodus 1:13-14
This phase of the Israelites’ journey reflects the times in our lives when we feel oppressed or limited, either by external circumstances or our own fears and doubts. Egypt represents any situation where we feel trapped, unable to fulfill our potential.
The Call of Moses: A Mission to Liberate
God raises up Moses, a humble shepherd, to lead His people out of Egypt. Moses’ journey from an exiled prince to the voice of liberation reminds us that our past doesn’t determine our future.
“I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry… Come now, therefore, and I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people… out of Egypt.” – Exodus 3:7, 10
With courage and humility, Moses takes on this call. Sometimes, the most challenging journeys require us to trust that we are capable of more than we know.
The Ten Plagues: Facing Obstacles on the Road to Freedom
Despite Moses’ plea, Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, and he refuses to let the Israelites go. God sends ten plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power, showing that freedom often requires perseverance through trials.
Water to Blood
Frogs
Lice
Flies
Death of Livestock
Boils
Hail
Locusts
Darkness
Death of the Firstborn
Each plague is a step closer to liberation, yet each also intensifies Pharaoh’s resistance. Likewise, in our journey to freedom, we may face intense challenges, but these can ultimately strengthen our resolve.
The Exodus: Crossing into the Unknown
Finally, Pharaoh lets the Israelites go. They set out from Egypt, only to be pursued by Pharaoh’s army. When they reach the Red Sea, God performs a miracle, parting the waters so they can pass through.
“The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” – Exodus 14:14
The crossing of the Red Sea symbolizes a leap of faith into the unknown. To leave behind the familiar and walk into new territory requires trust that God will provide.
The Wilderness: The Time of Testing
In the wilderness, the Israelites experience trials and doubts. They complain, fear, and even long for Egypt, where life, though hard, was predictable.
“And the whole congregation… complained against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness.” – Exodus 16:2
The wilderness symbolizes a time of transformation—a place where our weaknesses are exposed and our faith tested. Many people experience periods of wandering or feeling lost before reaching a place of purpose.
God’s Provision: Manna and Water
Despite their complaints, God provides manna, water from rocks, and guidance by cloud and fire. In our own wilderness seasons, we often find unexpected provisions, moments of grace to sustain us.
Manna: Daily sustenance for the Israelites, symbolizing our need to trust in God’s provision one day at a time.
Water from Rock: Life-giving nourishment when hope seems dry.
Guidance by Cloud and Fire: A reminder that God is with us, guiding us even when the path is unclear.
The Promised Land: A New Life of Freedom
After forty years, a new generation of Israelites is ready to enter the Promised Land. Moses passes leadership to Joshua, and with courage, they cross the Jordan River and claim their inheritance.
“Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the people of Israel into the land I swore to give them, and I will be with you.” – Deuteronomy 31:23
The Promised Land represents a life of freedom and fulfillment, the place we reach after trusting through trials, letting go of what holds us back, and stepping into a life aligned with our true purpose.
Key Takeaways
Leave Egypt Behind: Recognize and release what enslaves you.
Embrace the Call: Step into your purpose, even if it’s daunting.
Trust Through Trials: Understand that obstacles can strengthen and prepare you.
Take Leaps of Faith: Trust in God’s guidance, even in uncertainty.
Persevere in the Wilderness: Let challenging times refine and teach you.
Enter the Promised Land: Move into a life of freedom and purpose, grounded in faith and courage.
“For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Conclusion: From Wilderness to Freedom
The story of the Israelites is a profound reminder that we are all on a journey. There will be times of feeling enslaved, seasons of testing, and moments when the path seems too difficult. Yet, just as the Israelites moved from slavery to freedom, we, too, can find our way to a life of purpose. With faith, courage, and perseverance, we can leave our own wilderness and enter the “Promised Land” waiting for each of us.
May this story inspire you to keep moving forward, to find strength in your trials, and to trust in a brighter future filled with hope and freedom.
The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday celebrated primarily on November 1st and 2nd to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Rooted in both Aztec and Spanish Catholic traditions, this holiday is a vibrant celebration of life and death, characterized by colorful decorations, elaborate altars, and offerings.
On November 1st, known as Día de los Inocentes or “Day of the Innocents,” the spirits of deceased children are believed to return, while November 2nd, Día de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead,” is when adults are remembered. Families create ofrendas (altars) adorned with photos, candles, marigold flowers (cempasuchil), and favorite foods of the deceased. Skulls made of sugar (calaveras), painted faces, and La Catrina, a skeletal figure in fine clothing, are iconic symbols.
Unlike some Western views of death, the Day of the Dead celebrates it as a natural part of life. It’s a joyful time when the spirits of loved ones are invited to visit, and families gather to share memories and keep their ancestors’ spirits alive.
The Provoke movement wasn’t just an aesthetic shift in photography—it was a revolution in how photographers approached their craft and viewed the world. Born from a time of social upheaval in Japan, Provoke was founded by a group of radical thinkers and photographers who saw their work as a means of challenging societal norms and conventional beauty. This collective, including Takuma Nakahira, Yutaka Takanashi, Koji Taki, and later Daido Moriyama, came together to produce a small, disruptive magazine that left a lasting impact on photography and art.
“Provoke photography is about the truth beneath the surface—the raw, unpolished essence of life, unfiltered and unapologetically real.”
The Origins of Provoke: A Group of Rebels in the Late 1960s
In 1968, as Japan experienced intense social and political change, Provoke magazine was founded in Tokyo by Takuma Nakahira (a photographer), Koji Taki (a critic and writer), and Yutaka Takanashi (another photographer). Their aim was clear: to push the boundaries of photography, not merely documenting life but interrogating it, forcing viewers to question what they saw. The trio met through Tokyo’s art and literary circles, where political activism and avant-garde art collided.
Political and Cultural Context of Provoke
During this period, Japan was undergoing rapid industrialization and modernization, which led to a sense of disconnection and alienation among its citizens. Student protests, anti-war movements, and a cultural shift away from traditional Japanese values created a backdrop of unrest and rebellion. The Provoke photographers were not detached observers of this change—they were part of it. Their images captured the emotional and psychological strain of a society in flux.
“Provoke was born out of rebellion—a visual protest against a rapidly changing world that often felt impersonal and disorienting.”
Key Figures of Provoke and Their Contributions
Each member of Provoke brought a unique perspective and style that enriched the movement and shaped its distinct aesthetic.
Takuma Nakahira: The Intellectual Force
Takuma Nakahira was known not only for his photography but also for his philosophical and theoretical contributions. A former journalist, Nakahira believed that photography was a means to explore subjective reality and confront traditional aesthetics. His work in Provoke centered on capturing fleeting, fractured moments—often distorted and unrecognizable—mirroring the instability he saw in the world around him.
Nakahira’s Techniques: Known for his intense, grainy black-and-white images, Nakahira often used high-contrast film to create powerful, dramatic effects. His compositions were intentionally blurred, emphasizing movement and chaos.
Cameras: Nakahira commonly used 35mm cameras like the Canon 7 with a 50mm f/1.2 lens, which allowed him to work quickly and capture moments spontaneously.
“For Nakahira, photography was about seeing beyond the surface—capturing not what the world looked like, but what it felt like.”
Yutaka Takanashi: The Urban Observer
Yutaka Takanashi was deeply influenced by Tokyo’s urban landscape, and his work focused on the fragmentation and alienation of modern city life. His images were harsh, gritty, and often featured distorted perspectives that challenged viewers to see the city differently. Takanashi captured Tokyo’s industrial sprawl, drawing attention to its impersonal, mechanical nature.
Takanashi’s Techniques: Takanashi used layering and complex compositions to convey the disorientation and alienation of city life. He would position elements in the foreground and background to create a sense of depth and confusion.
Cameras: Takanashi often shot with a Nikon F camera, equipped with a variety of lenses to capture the harsh, jarring angles of Tokyo’s streets and industrial zones.
“Takanashi showed us the loneliness within crowds, the isolation of life in a concrete jungle.”
Koji Taki: The Theoretical Backbone
Koji Taki was a writer and critic who contributed much of Provoke’s philosophical foundation. Though he was not a photographer, Taki’s role in Provoke was crucial—he provided the language and intellectual framework that helped to articulate the movement’s ideas. Through his essays in Provoke, he challenged the idea of photographic objectivity, proposing that photography is an inherently subjective, interpretive medium.
Taki’s Writings: His writings emphasized the importance of rejecting realism and focusing on the photographer’s inner experience. Taki saw Provoke as a form of resistance, a way to capture the intangible truths that lie beneath society’s polished exterior.
“For Taki, photography was about embracing imperfection, about letting the camera capture what words cannot express.”
Daido Moriyama: The Outsider’s Perspective
Daido Moriyama joined Provoke after the publication of the first issue and became one of its most famous contributors. Known for his unconventional approach, Moriyama’s work emphasized grit, imperfection, and emotional depth. His iconic image Stray Dog embodies the Provoke ethos, portraying a raw, unfiltered vision of life on the streets.
Moriyama’s Techniques: Moriyama often shot at night, using high ISO film to capture the grainy, shadow-laden world of Tokyo’s backstreets. He embraced blur and distortion, favoring close-ups and unconventional angles to create a sense of intimacy and intensity.
Cameras: Moriyama frequently used compact, portable cameras like the Ricoh GR series, allowing him to shoot quickly and discreetly. His preference for smaller cameras reflects his philosophy of blending into the crowd, becoming an invisible observer.
“Moriyama saw beauty in imperfection; his photos captured the essence of a moment, unpolished and unapologetic.”
The Techniques and Aesthetic of Provoke Photography
Are-Bure-Boke: The Visual Language of Provoke
The Provoke aesthetic is best summarized by the phrase Are-Bure-Boke, which translates to grainy, blurry, and out of focus. This style defied traditional photography’s emphasis on clarity and precision. The Provoke photographers used high-contrast black-and-white film, grainy textures, and intentional blur to create images that felt chaotic and alive.
Key Techniques in Provoke Photography:
High-Contrast Film: Provoke photographers used high-contrast film to achieve stark black-and-white tones. Shadows were deep and impenetrable, while highlights were bright and glaring, adding a sense of drama and intensity.
Intentional Blur and Focus Distortion: By rejecting the need for sharp focus, Provoke photographers created a sense of movement and disorientation. Blur became a metaphor for the transient, fleeting nature of reality.
Close-ups and Unconventional Angles: Many Provoke images were shot at unusual angles or in extreme close-up, forcing viewers to confront the subject directly. This technique gave the images an uncomfortable immediacy, placing the viewer in the middle of the scene.
Layering and Fragmentation: Provoke photographers often layered elements within their compositions, creating complex, fragmented images that reflected the fractured nature of modern life.
The Role of Compact, Fast Cameras
Provoke photographers preferred compact, lightweight cameras that allowed for quick shooting and a sense of immediacy. Cameras like the Nikon F, Canon 7, and Ricoh GR enabled them to move freely through the streets, capturing fleeting moments without the need for setup or preparation. The mobility offered by these cameras was crucial for Provoke’s aesthetic, allowing photographers to capture candid, spontaneous scenes.
The Philosophy of Provoke: Photography as Subjective Reality
The Provoke movement wasn’t only about visuals; it was a deeply philosophical approach to photography. At its core, Provoke questioned the concept of photographic “truth.” Traditional photography valued objectivity and realism, but Provoke argued that all images are inherently subjective. Photography, they believed, is shaped by the photographer’s emotions, perspective, and biases.
Provoke’s Philosophical Foundations
Subjectivity Over Objectivity: Provoke challenged the notion that photography could capture objective truth. They saw each photograph as a reflection of the photographer’s inner world—a subjective expression rather than a factual document.
Photography as a Reflection of Emotional Truth: The Provoke photographers believed that reality is more than what’s visible on the surface. They used blur, grain, and unconventional compositions to capture emotional truths—the intangible feelings and sensations that lie beneath appearances.
Embracing Impermanence: Provoke’s techniques highlight the fleeting, ephemeral nature of life. In capturing blurred, high-contrast moments, Provoke conveyed a sense of impermanence, reminding viewers that each image is a snapshot of a moment that can never be recreated.
Photography as Rebellion: Provoke was a rejection of traditional Japanese aesthetics and mainstream photographic conventions. By embracing “flaws” and “imperfections,” Provoke photographers used their images as a form of rebellion, challenging viewers to see the world in a new way.
“Provoke teaches us that photography is not just about capturing what we see, but what we feel, perceive, and interpret in the world around us.”
Legacy of Provoke: The Movement’s Enduring Influence
Though Provoke magazine only published three issues, its impact on photography, particularly street and documentary photography, has been profound. Provoke’s style and philosophy have inspired countless photographers worldwide, reminding them to embrace imperfection, subjectivity, and emotional depth. The movement’s influence can be seen in contemporary street photography, where high-contrast, grainy, and emotionally charged images continue to resonate.
Lessons from Provoke for the Modern Photographer
For today’s photographers, Provoke offers a way to move beyond technical skill and embrace a more expressive, authentic approach. Key takeaways include:
Prioritize Emotion Over Perfection: Don’t worry about technical “flaws.” Let your images be raw and unpolished if it helps convey the mood or emotion.
Use Subjectivity to Enhance Your Work: Remember that every photograph reflects your perspective. Use this subjectivity to your advantage, focusing on how the scene feels rather than how it looks.
Embrace Impermanence and Blur: Life is fleeting and impermanent—let your photography reflect this. Blur, grain, and distortion can add a layer of depth that sharpness cannot.
Challenge the Norms: Provoke is a reminder to stay true to your vision. Don’t feel pressured to conform to popular trends or standards; instead, let your work be a personal exploration.
Conclusion: The Timeless Power of Provoke
Provoke photography continues to resonate because it reminds us of photography’s potential as a medium of personal expression and rebellion. By embracing the Provoke philosophy, we allow ourselves to capture the world not as it should be, but as it is—complex, fragmented, and beautifully imperfect.
“To photograph with a Provoke mindset is to confront reality, to find beauty in chaos, and to show the world in all its messy, transient truth.”
In adopting Provoke’s philosophy, we embrace photography not just as an art form, but as a way to connect to our deepest emotions and ideas, creating images that are raw, true, and unforgettable.
Today, I’m in the Fashion District Mall here in Philadelphia, a place that’s soon to be the new 76ers Arena. I’m out here capturing moments, but this time, I’m experimenting with a different perspective. Instead of shooting from the ground, I’m taking a bird’s eye view approach, using the light from above to create dynamic shots.
Playing with Light and Shadow
My approach today is simple yet unusual for me—I’m observing the patches of light and waiting for people to step into them, adding a sense of abstract composition. This involves shifting between vertical and horizontal framing and experimenting with how light interacts with the space.
“Depending on the foot traffic and how many people walk in and out of the frame, you can maybe have a more dynamic picture.”
The idea is to capture a single subject at times or sometimes multiple people within the frame, allowing the foot traffic to determine the scene’s dynamics. The result? A more abstract look that focuses on the play of light and shadow.
Trying New Perspectives
This experiment is all about trying new things—I’m exploring the possibilities of different angles and this bird’s eye view. It’s an approach I don’t usually take, but here, it offers a unique opportunity for dynamic shadow play. The high vantage point gives a completely fresh view of the mall’s usual bustling atmosphere.
Perspective: A bird’s eye view adds an unfamiliar angle to a familiar scene.
Light and Shadow: Patches of light create natural frames within the image.
Composition: Framing varies as I experiment between single and multiple subjects.
“I just have it snap-focused to infinity, pointing and shooting, highlighting weight metering with the Ricoh GR IIIx.”
With this setup, it’s easy to capture shots quickly, allowing me to focus more on the composition and timing. The highlight-weighted metering on the Ricoh GR IIIx helps me make the most out of the available light, especially around noon, when the light hits this part of the mall perfectly.
Reviewing and Adjusting On the Spot
Another key benefit of shooting digital is the ability to review photos instantly. This on-the-go feedback allows me to re-evaluate the composition and make adjustments as needed.
“Just use your LCD screen to review your photos so you can see what you’re doing and maybe re-evaluate the composition.”
Key Takeaways
Experiment with Angles: Trying new perspectives can breathe fresh life into familiar spaces.
Observe Light Patterns: Patches of light create opportunities for striking abstract compositions.
Instant Feedback: Shooting digital means you can adjust and learn in real-time.
Final Thoughts
Today’s session was a quick one, maybe only five minutes of shooting in this spot, but it brought fresh ideas to mind. A reminder to myself: next time, come here around noon to catch that perfect light again. Sometimes, all it takes is a slight change in perspective to see something entirely new in a space you thought you knew.
As an artist, I am free, and the world is both my canvas and my playground. However, the world is slowly feeling more like a prison or a cage, in a city where people live like zoo animals.
Industrial World
Office buildings have emerged and been implemented in the city of Philadelphia since the mid-19th century. As people moved from the rural countryside to cities, the urbanization of modern life—living in apartments, condos, and smaller-scale homes within larger buildings—has become the norm. With people living in cities, we saw an increase in production, such as manufacturing within factories. There’s a lot of labor involved in building a city, constructing the offices, and maintaining the streets.
With the implementation of the automobile, people can now live outside of the city and commute to work each and every day through highways and the city streets, without having to deal with the smell of poop from their horse. With these new systems in place, formal education and training became necessary, and many people spend years attending universities, acquiring degrees, to fulfill the needs within the offices and factories.
As technology advances, we see more and more tall and looming skyscrapers, such as the Comcast tower that was built in 2008. Within these modern offices, there are cubicles filled with computers. Now, as of 2024, I’d estimate around 75% of work we currently do is done within the digital world, utilizing computer technology, indoors, in office buildings.
Digital World
Given that about 75% of jobs within a city require the worker to operate a computer, sitting down for eight hours per day, in an office, in a box, within another box, a cubicle, working within the four corners of a box—a computer—I’d say that we are quite comfortable boxing ourselves in.
We have become domesticated, like zoo animals, finding comfort under the fluorescent lights and air-conditioning. Zoo creatures live in closed, air-conditioned systems, similar to the way an office worker lives their daily life. Wild animals live in an open system, forcing them to evolve to an open environment, which is much more challenging. Zoo creatures adapt to a closed environment, and because of this, their behavior changes drastically. They do not compete with each other like animals do in the wild. They become more comfortable, more complacent, accepting the luxury of indoor life.
Artificial Closed Systems
Think of a modern human in these conditions. It is inevitable that you will sit down for the majority of the day, watch Netflix, consume junk, and become more docile. This is similar to the way that animals are fed by the zookeepers as they are given perfect shelter, comfortable settings, and food. In these conditions, it is inevitable that both humans and animals will become more fragile.
The human adaptation to a closed environment is becoming 300 pounds overweight, sitting in a chair, watching TV. In a zoo, animals become toothless with pretty feathers—domesticated creatures. In an open environment, however, there are no fat predators.
“The human adaptation to a closed environment is becoming 300 pounds overweight, sitting in a chair, watching TV.”
The Irony of Running to Burn Calories
I see joggers on the trail every morning, rattling their bones, chasing calories. It’s like we’ve all subconsciously agreed that running ourselves into the ground is “healthy.” But when you think about our ancestors, they weren’t sprinting after prey; they were marching, observing, standing tall to scout the landscape. Running in circles just to burn calories is a strange human behavior we picked up since becoming domesticated, like zoo animals chasing their own tails.
I laugh every time I see a runner with a shirt that says, “I run to eat.” When I ran a half marathon in college, they handed out beer and burgers at the finish line. We run ourselves ragged, only to celebrate by filling ourselves with junk. It’s ironic—the very thing we’re supposed to be escaping catches up with us by the end of the race.
You Can’t Tame Me
When I was in public school for high school, I recognized right away how useless the information they teach you is. Not only that, but it felt like prison. You had to go through a metal detector, the doors were locked, you weren’t allowed outside for lunch, and there were security guards lurking around the halls. I would memorize things, take the test, and pass with high grades very easily. I didn’t even have to try, and that’s not to flex or anything; it’s just the truth of how broken public education is.
“It almost felt like we were being programmed for the industrial society that cities have become.”
You hardly learn anything other than how to sit down for eight hours and take orders. You wait for the bell, go to the next class, memorize, take the test, and repeat. It almost felt like we were being programmed for the industrial society that cities have become. Listening to the bell, similar to that of the bell in a factory? Because I realized how useless public education was, I often would skip class, finding a door to open, and go out into the park nearby.
I’ve heard countless cases of children that were medicated simply because they didn’t want to sit still in class, which is an extremely unnatural place to be in the first place. It’s not uncommon to hear such cases, where disobedient students were prescribed pills, such as Adderall, to help with focus and attention. I cannot imagine the effect that this drug will have on the future of humanity.
Closed Spaces are Unnatural
Think of your DNA as a collective survival strategy. Over years of adaptation, we have developed physical traits and attributes that make us who we are. A human being is bipedal, stands upright, with a tall spine, as we were once hunter-gatherers. Our bodies have two hands, two feet, and the ability to craft tools through ingenuity and consciousness.
Considering the nature of a human being in the wild, what will occur to our DNA if we live this way in modernity, medicated, in closed systems, for too long? I think the outcome could potentially be jarring, devastating, and lead to the decline of the physical body. Sitting down is bad for you. If somebody commands you to sit down and take orders, why not just say no? You know you have the ability to say no, right? However, we’ve become so tamed, so docile, and so comfortable with these closed systems that it is inevitable that we will never bite the hand that feeds us.
“We’ve become so tamed, so docile, and so comfortable with these closed systems that it is inevitable that we will never bite the hand that feeds us.”
Why is it that we sacrifice our physical health for the pursuit of wealth and material goods?
And no, it is not because you have to work just because “everyone else does it.” If everyone else was taking medication, doing drugs, and drinking alcohol, would you do it too? I’m not advocating for a complete stop in work itself, but notions of what productivity mean have gotten out of hand. Working within the digital world, sending emails, doing Zoom calls, is not very productive. Nothing actually manifests in reality through the things that we “produce” in offices. I would say that more than half of the jobs in offices are just to fill a space, for somebody to do a tedious task and print paper out. Being an accountant is not fun, and there’s no denying this.
“It feels as though everyone has collectively agreed to modern-day slavery, the denial of the body, through hedonistic pleasure, in honor of our new God, bureaucracy.”
We have become slaves to the computers, but why not just make the computers our slaves? I propose a simple solution: automation of these closed systems.
Return to the Natural
During my recent trip to Miami, I noticed a trend towards the ugly, the unnatural. Also, what makes something beautiful and what makes something ugly? Perhaps true beauty is natural.
As I walked through the Aventura Mall, I was shocked by how many women inject their lips and face with Botox, and the amount of plastic surgery done to enhance the size of their butts and breasts. It is quite jarring to look at, unflattering, and ugly. The same goes for men, as they walk around in their tank tops, looking extremely grotesque—it’s so obvious that they inject themselves with steroids.
Water, the Commodity
Reflecting on my time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia, I remember how precious water was. In the village, water came from a well, and every drop was carefully collected, boiled, and filtered. Now, back in Philly, I see people buying flavored water with “minerals added for taste.” The commodity of our most basic need—water—has become a marketing scheme. People buy water flavored with “natural” ingredients that hardly even make sense.
“In the village, water was life itself. Here, it’s just another product, pumped full of flavors and sold for four bucks a bottle.”
Isn’t it strange that we’re paying more for something we used to get for free?
Humans Love Poison?
Consider your average 9-to-5 office worker. They work about 40 hours per week and get around 14 days free out of the 365 days of their year. They wake up, get in the car, get stuck in traffic for 30 minutes, work, go to lunch, buy some gross salad in a plastic box, go back to their box, and then get back in the car for another 30 minutes of traffic. They sit down on the couch, most likely eat some sort of junk, while watching TV, drinking sugary soda, such as Coca-Cola. Not to mention, the media on the television is now poison, with nothing but doom and gloom, fear porn, and political boneheads.
“When Friday rolls around, it’s as if Moses came down from Mount Sinai, and freed the Israelites.”
Everyone rushes straight to the bars, the clubs, and the dark caves. I often hear people bickering and complaining over the beer they drink about some person at work that is giving them a hard time, bossing them around because of their seniority. But now that the weekend is here, they can all disappear into the darkness, indulging with any poison that they can find. Distractions, such as watching sports, gambling, and beer, fill the streets every weekend.
Walking anywhere in a modern city, such as Philadelphia, it seems like everybody vapes now. We are deliberately injecting poison into our lungs, weakening our physical bodies, but why?
Using social media is the equivalent of having a debilitating vaping addiction. It reminds me of why we invented the automobile, and how we no longer have to deal with horse poop. However, when we wake up in the morning, we immediately check our phones, our social medias. This action is the equivalent of waking up, wiping your butts, and just smearing the poop everywhere on your face. Do you want poop all over your face? No, just delete your Instagram.
Death of Religion
When I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia, Africa, the thing that stood out to me the most was how every family had around 10 children per household. It amazed me, the daily routine of a tribe. The women come home with babies on their backs and firewood on their heads. The men are building churches and homes. The boys are creating bricks with sand and mud. The girls are sweeping the floors and preparing food for the day. Everybody has a role to play within a village.
What I have realized is that there is a hierarchy needed for a thriving and functioning society: God, tribe, and land.
In the center of the village, there is a church. At the center of the church, there is an altar, where a sacrifice is made, and the entire community recalls the story of Jesus, an archetype, a hero, somebody to aspire to be like. This gives the community a blueprint, something to aspire towards, something transcendental, that gives life a deeper meaning.
“I believe that this is missing in modernity. It does not matter whether the religion is Christianity, Judaism, Islam, or even Buddhism.”
The archetypes and heroes—such as Achilles, Hercules, and biblical stories of David in the battle against Goliath—give man something to strive towards, something beyond themselves.
Anyways, when you consider the death of religion, the death of God, in modern life, this will have severe consequences on the future of humanity.
How are families forming with 10 children per household in the Zambian villages with little technological advancement, but in the West, in cities full of abundance, our population is certainly on decline?
Families are not being formed anymore, and it is obvious when walking around Philadelphia that single people would rather have a dog, or go to the club, vape, and pursue other hedonistic things instead of raising a family or making children.
We have lost touch with what it means to be human, to be a creator. For we are the ultimate creators on this earth, and we no longer consider this as our ultimate aim. We would rather medicate ourselves, distract ourselves, and box ourselves into closed systems. So, the zoo creatures eventually become barbaric, uncivilized. However, family incentivizes people to become civilized.
You Are Bigger Than a Cog in the Machine
As the ants carry the grain on their back into the colony, one by one, we must also remember that ants, collectively, become bigger than just cogs in the machine. While each person’s actions may be seemingly small, as a collective, they build the future.
Ants use pheromones to create trails that other ants use to guide themselves back to the colony. The issue with our digital world now is that most work and communities form online, and no pheromones are ever in the air. Communication becomes very artificial and transactional, both at work and outside of work.
The rat race is real, and we’ve all agreed upon it. We love running on the wheel like a hamster leading us to nowhere. The unfortunate reality is that nothing is truly happening in a city anymore. Sure, we have tourism, construction, janitors, police officers, firefighters, etc. However, if 75% of the work is being done in an office building, then it is my belief that 75% of the human beings in a city are spending their time squandered.
My critique of the mayor’s recent demand to have everyone return to the office is that it feels like the equivalent of getting the slaves back in order. We should at least have every office filled with standing desks? That way, they’re at least standing upright. I guess standing desks are much more humane, considering humans are designed to be standing? I just think that we can move on from these old systems at this point. Even using a mouse and keyboard feels extremely unnatural to me, and archaic. We now have iPads, AirPods, and the ability to communicate while outside, standing upright, and moving your physical body. You no longer have to type on a keyboard. We are now in a new world, a digital world. Maybe it’s best that we start utilizing this new technology in a way that doesn’t deny our physiology. As we go into the future, let us remember to evolve our physical bodies, as much as we consume ourselves in these digital worlds.
We must remember that we are bigger than just a cog in a machine, an animal in a zoo, or an ant in a colony. We are the universe.
It sounds like street photography isn’t just something you do—it’s who you are, a natural extension of how you experience the world. From the rhythm of city life to the unique encounters you capture, it becomes more than just an art form; it’s a reflection of your essence.
When you say “I am street photography,” you’re expressing a profound connection to the spontaneity, the rawness, and the unfiltered moments that only street photography can capture. This type of photography thrives on the unexpected and thrives on serendipity, just like life itself. Every shot is a piece of reality distilled, each frame an honest look at the pulse of human life, where even the mundane moments tell stories.
Your approach, equipment, and personal connection to your environment and subjects all help you embody what street photography is truly about: being present, attentive, and fearless.
What moments do you feel capture the most of your essence in street photography?
Got the Ricoh GR IIIx set to high contrast black and white, with all settings cranked to the max. I’ve got AV mode on, snap focus set to 2 meters. It’s point-and-shoot simplicity. Just a quick flick on the exposure compensation to +1 or +0.7 when needed, keeping things dynamic without messing with shutter speed or aperture. Auto ISO is set with a minimum shutter speed of 1/500th of a second.
Following the Beat of the Street
I move close, navigating the flow of Market Street, Philly. Sometimes I use reflections in glass, discreetly positioning my camera to capture what feels real. Spotting a guy down the street dressed in all white—he’s got an energy I can’t ignore, so I veer off my path, letting instinct lead me.
“The intuition of the street photographer is ultimately what guides them. You’ll never know what you’re going to find.”
The beat of the street calls for speed and gut reaction, staying on my toes, ready to capture whatever unfolds.
Engaging with People, Embracing the Moment
I see the guy in white near a cathedral. He’s snapping photos of himself, and I jump in. Adjusting my snap focus to 3.5, I ask if I can shoot a few of him.
“Yo, you look great, man. Mind if I…? I’m gonna take a photo.”
Turns out he’s creating content for Fashion Nova—he’s a fashion designer, rocking his version of a mummy outfit. As I shoot, I throw out small directions, hoping to capture those moments in between poses, the candid adjustments that feel authentic.
The Art of Interaction
Street photography isn’t just about stealth; sometimes it’s about connecting with people.
“Don’t be afraid to interact. If you see something you like, engage. Ask them to repeat it or just go with the flow.”
Getting close to people, physically and emotionally, brings out something different in the photos—a depth that only comes from real interaction.
Finding the Beauty in the Mundane
Two interesting moments, steps apart, remind me of what keeps street photography alive. It’s not always about the perfect composition; it’s about seeing beauty in everyday life. It’s the crying kid being dragged along, a mother’s tired expression, or a random guy pulling out his snakes named Athena and Pharaoh. These unexpected encounters make each shot unique.
“Boring photographer, boring photographs. If you’re seeing the world as mundane, maybe it’s because you’re not really looking.”
Courage and Curiosity
Street photography demands more than technical knowledge—it calls for courage and a genuine love for life. When you’re open to people, to the world, the camera becomes an extension of your curiosity.
“Your photographs reflect your lust for life. It’s not about technique alone—it’s about how you engage with the world, how close you are to humanity.”
At the end of the day, it’s this love for life, this willingness to dive into the unknown, that gives strength to every image I capture.
The streets of Philly are alive with stories, and all it takes is the courage to look, to engage, and to press the shutter.
Standing at the corner of 15th and Market Street in Philadelphia, right outside City Hall, I’ve got my Ricoh GR IIIx in hand, and today, I want to share some insights on street photography. When photographing on a bustling corner like this, there’s a lot happening—different people, contrasting lights, and dynamic shadows. So, here are some thoughts on capturing compelling images in this environment.
Positioning and Light: The Basics
One of the first things to understand when shooting on the street is how to work with light and positioning.
“Eventually, you want to have the sun at your back if you’re aiming to get light on the faces of your subjects.”
Tips for Positioning:
Keep the Sun at Your Back: This helps illuminate your subjects while creating a balanced exposure.
Background Matters: Look at the background—anticipate how it will appear in your frame. When you understand the way people move through the space, you can position yourself to capture the best angle.
For example, with the sun at my back, City Hall’s tower and surrounding structures fall into shadow, allowing me to highlight subjects against a darker background. This chiaroscuro effect—the dramatic contrast of light and shadow—can make subjects stand out powerfully in the frame.
Adjusting Exposure for Light Variations
Another essential skill is using exposure compensation when shooting directly into the light.
“If you’re shooting toward the sun, just crank the exposure comp up by +2 stops.”
How to Adjust:
Exposure Compensation: On the Ricoh GR IIIx, or any camera, increase exposure by two stops when facing toward the sun. This technique keeps subjects from becoming silhouettes and preserves more detail in their faces and clothing.
While I often prefer shooting with the sun at my back, there are moments where shooting into the light adds a unique touch—especially when managing the exposure compensation effectively.
Blending In and Working Corners
Corners are great for street photography because they let you blend in effortlessly.
“You can shoot around quickly, positioning yourself at different parts of the street without drawing much attention.”
With a bus stop nearby, I can blend in as though I’m waiting for the bus. This stealthy approach makes people feel at ease, creating more candid, natural moments in the frame. Here are a few ways to make the most of corners:
Stand Back and Wait: Position yourself at the corner and wait for people to step into the light patches.
Anticipate Movement: Watch for those moments when people step up onto the curb or walk into the spotlight, with light hitting their faces perfectly.
Playing with Shadows
Light and shadow become key tools on a corner like this, especially in winter when light is dramatic and creates intriguing visual effects.
“There’s a magic that happens when people pass through shadow areas like this.”
Techniques with Shadows:
Use Shadows as Dividers: Elements like poles or building shadows can divide the frame or cast patterns on the subjects’ faces.
Light as the Subject: Light itself can become the focal point, transforming a simple street shot into something visually striking.
For instance, if a pole divides the frame, it not only splits the image but can create shadows that cut across a person’s face or body, highlighting certain features while concealing others. These interactions add depth and emotion to an otherwise straightforward shot.
Wrapping Up: Finding Your Light and Enjoying the Process
To make the most out of a street corner:
Find a Patch of Light: Set your back to the sun and look for light patches.
Try Different Angles: Don’t be afraid to change positions, experiment with exposure, and see what the environment has to offer.
Enjoy the Process: Street photography is about exploration and patience—there’s no single “right” way to capture a moment.
Every corner, every shadow, every change of light brings something unique to the image. Street photography isn’t just about capturing a scene; it’s about embracing the light, waiting for the right moment, and finding joy in every frame.
