Photography Has Nothing to Do with Photography
What Do I Mean by That?
Photography has nothing to do with photography.
And what do I mean by that? Why am I telling you this?
Because photography has everything to do with you—how you perceive the world, how you engage with life. A photograph is merely a reflection of your lust for life, of being there, present when you press the shutter—on the front lines of life, close to humanity, both physically and emotionally.
Presence Over Perfection
A photographer’s responsibility isn’t just about composition, the rule of thirds, or getting the perfect exposure. It’s about being there. When you press the shutter, you must be engaged in life.
“Photography has nothing to do with photography because it has everything to do with how you engage with life and humanity at the forefront.”
We get caught up in what makes or breaks a great photograph—composition, technique, tips, tricks. But what really matters? Showing up.
All You Need to Do Is:
- Grab your camera.
- Put on a backpack.
- Walk out the door.
- Get the f* out there.**
Photography is simple. It’s being in the world.
Seeing Beyond the Frame
When you photograph your hometown—your local streets—you’re capturing a fragment of something much larger. The world is bigger than the four corners of the frame.
“There is more out there in this endless expanse of the world. There are infinite possibilities—so much to see, to explore, and to photograph.”
You don’t have to go far. But if you want to, go.
Take a train. A plane. A bus. Drive. Walk. Explore.
The Power of Movement
“If you want to photograph life, you must experience life.”
Stop waiting. Stop overthinking. Stop scrolling.
If you want to see the world, go out there and see it.
- Want to take a road trip? Take a road trip.
- Want to explore an island? Go.
- Want to visit Haiti? Muster up the balls and do it.
Nothing has been done—not yet. The world is still new. Photography is still new. There are infinite photographs to be made.
“Photography reminds me: There are an infinite number of photographs waiting to be made.”
Photography as a Way of Life
After a decade of photographing, I still feel like I’m just getting started. Every day, I wake up eager to go out and press the shutter again.
Because photography isn’t about technique—it’s about affirming life.
“For me, the click of the shutter affirms my life. It gives my life deeper meaning and a sense of purpose.”
Embrace the Spirit of Play
- Remain a child.
- Remain an amateur.
- Let go of preconceived ideas.
- Explore endlessly.
- Follow your curiosity with courage.
This is where the magic happens.
The Simple Truth
Photography is easy. What’s difficult is being present.
“Photography is simple. What’s difficult is being engaged—with the world, with humanity, with life.”
So forget the visual game. Forget the rules. Just move.
Open your door. Go.
Forget the identity of being a “photographer.” Just be. Be close to life. Be on the front lines. Follow your joy.
And your photographs will reflect that lust for life.
Final Thought
Photography is the most democratic medium. Anyone can pick up a camera and shoot.
But it’s not about taking pictures. It’s about lifting humanity to an extraordinary height—and that takes time, patience, and courage.
“Photography has nothing to do with photography. Photography has everything to do with you being present when you press the shutter.”
So go. Explore. Photograph. Live.
Cheers.