Keep it a simmer

“I learned never to empty the well of my writing, but always to stop when there was still something there in the deep art of the well and let it fill at night from the springs that fed it.” – Ernest Hemingway

I think I am one of the few people who don’t take photos regularly with my smartphone. This decision does not stem from my dismissing the technical power of smartphones. On the contrary, I find them to be remarkable for making photography accessible for most people nowadays, and as their technical performance continues to improve, I believe the days of carrying a digital camera for photography may be limiting to the few die-hard enthusiasts soon.

My decision has more to do with keeping myself feeling fresh and excited about my photography by not photographing on a day-to-day basis. I realize this decision runs contrary to most of the professional suggestions out there. The smartphone camera being the best camera because you have it with you all the time, and as you can take images regularly, your work will continue to improve. The adage – the more you do, the better you get at it. While there is a lot of truth to this teaching, I find it important to give myself a break from not having the obligation to capture every moment. Yes, there are lots of precious moments in life and they are worth keeping track of, but just as important, I feel I am there to experience those moments, but not through the lens of some sort so I always have keepsakes in case I am not mentally there. I also feel by taking images frequently, photography no longer provides that sparks of excitement that used to be special. I find myself more excited about my photography outings when I have to make the extra effort to go out and do it. I like to see photography not becoming a mundane part of my life. I cherish those outings when I make plans to go out, explore places and shoot. I see those occasions as opportunities to seek magic.

I also see my relationship with photography as a love relationship. When we first start out as young love, it is natural to have that deep fire-burning passion. As time goes on, that relationship will more likely simmer down to a steady flow of passion. You want to keep that steady fire burning by feeding it with coal, but not over burning it by pouring oil on a fire so it risks buring out quickly. I like to think long-term for my passion with photography. I don’t feel the need to take photos every day to stay productive. I do, however like to remain engaged regularly so I don’t lose my interest and momentum. I therefore like to work on projects that motivates me to keep going with purposes.

I often feel there is too much pressure on being productive with the creation of work. I think as an artist, my non-creative time is just as important. I like to think periods of inactivity are just as healthy. It is the same as my exercise routine, I deliberately put in rest days so my body can get some rest and be replenished. I see my days of not photographing as little breaks to reflect and grow. When I am out photographing again after a short break, I re-engage with enthusiasm.