Contemplative photography: seeing clearly
Photo: Andy Karr By Andy Karr / From Halifax The practice of contemplative photography is a method for seeing, and photographing, your world in a fresh way, to expose the richness and beauty that is normally hidden from us. Conventional photography emphasizes subject matter and technique. Contemplative photography emphasizes working with eye, mind, and heart in order to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. We didn’t invent this. Henri Cartier-Bresson wrote, “To take photographs means… putting one’s head, one’s eye and one’s heart on the same axis.” Our contribution is a method of training that makes this accessible to anyone. The method is based
What is contemplation? The word contemplate can mean to think things over, but here we are talking about revealing a deeper level of intelligence than the thinking mind. The original meaning of the word contemplate is connected with careful observation. It means to be present with something in an open space. This space is created by letting go of our discursive narrative. Within this space, the intelligence and insight of contemplative mind naturally arises. How will this help me take pictures? Contemplative mind and direct perception see clearly. Thinking mind does not. Seeing is the main skill that photographers need to cultivate. To quote Cartier-Bresson again, “People think far too much about techniques and not enough about seeing.” How will this help me with my life? The same skills that help you see clearly with your eyes, will help you see clearly with your mind’s eye. Most of the difficulties we experience come from distorted seeing. We see ourselves in distorted ways, and we see other people in distorted ways. These distortions bind us, and cause us much suffering. Clear seeing eliminates these problems of self-centeredness and fixated relationships with others, freeing us from struggle, and lubricating our experience. What equipment do you need for the contemplative photography practice? A decent digital camera, and your eye, mind, and heart are all you need. Dharma/Arte is organizing a series of workshops and talks on contemplative photography, planned for April-May 2012. Learn more and support this project.
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