Why I Treat Photography Like a Daily Visual Diary
Photography, to me, is all about writing with light. The word itself comes from the Greek phos (light) and graphe (writing or drawing). So in a way, every photo I take is like writing personal notes and leaving them behind through the images.
A New Philosophy
Lately, I’ve been thinking about photography as a personal diary. Over the past decade, I was always out there hunting for moments in street photography. But in the last two years, I’ve shifted my mindset to simply taking the camera for a ride and letting life flow towards me.
I’m no longer on the hunt for the next best photograph; instead, I enter this stream of becoming and snapshot my way through life.
This new way of photographing has brought me so much more joy, and I feel more empowered than ever.
The Everyday Is Worth Photographing
Instead of only focusing on the external world, I’m now photographing my world, my daily routine, my feelings, my life. By carrying my camera everywhere, I document everything—my commute, my walks, my reflections.
- My morning bus ride to work
- The Philadelphia skyline each day, which is never the same twice
- Small details like textures, reflections, and self-portraits
Everyday moments are fleeting, and the realization that you can’t make the same photograph twice keeps me motivated.
Inspired by Vivian Maier
I’ve been inspired by Vivian Maier’s approach to photography. She didn’t shoot for public consumption but for herself.
What if no one were to view your photographs? Would you still make them?
This question pushes me to embrace the autotelic approach—photographing for the sake of photographing. Whether or not anyone sees the photos, they serve as cherished memories for me and my loved ones.
The Power of Black & White
Stripping down to high-contrast black-and-white photography has changed my perspective. It allows me to focus purely on:
- Light and shadow
- Form and emotion
- Simplicity over complexity
By underexposing and crushing the shadows, I’m exploring the very essence of photography—what’s left when you strip everything down to the basics.
Self-Portraits and Experimentation
I’ve also started turning the camera on myself more often. Whether it’s catching my reflection in a window or playing with light and shadow, photographing myself has become a part of my daily practice.
Photography is fun. It fuels my curiosity and keeps me eager to explore more every day.
Practical Tips for Treating Photography as a Diary
- Carry your camera everywhere
- Photograph your routine (commutes, meals, walks)
- Experiment with different perspectives
- Capture both the grand and the mundane
- Don’t take it too seriously—just enjoy the process
Conclusion
Photography is a way to explore, to play, and to stay curious. It’s about appreciating the little things and embracing the flow of life.
If you’re interested in my workflow and how I set up my Ricoh GR III for this process, check out my website at dantesisofo.com where I share my camera settings, contact sheets, and more.
Treat photography like a visual diary of your day. Embrace the spirit of play and let life flow towards you.
Stay curious, keep shooting, and enjoy the ride.