When you look at the world, what do you see?
Photographers are known for having a "good eye". But what does that mean? Is it something you're born with? Is it something you learn?
I've discovered that when I'm carrying a camera, I'm expecting to see beauty. It's something of a treasure hunt. Finding it comes more easily to some than to others, but we can train ourselves to look. There is much that is not beautiful to distract us, that is certain. Where will we focus our gaze?
It's as much a mindset as a way of using our eyes or the camera--a photographer's eye is anchored in hope.
I've just finished my first ten years as the owner of a photography business. I remember my trepidation like it was yesterday. Would my offerings be worthy of payment? So many others did it so well, had so much experience, and those who would hire me had lives and stories worthy of a highly skilled professional. But here's the thing: they picked me. I will never quite get over that. And their stories live on in the photos that spark the memories.
I have seen my photos of people on walls, on invitations, in books, on giant posters, at parties. And at funerals. I'm so grateful for the many sweet connections I've been able to capture between loved ones while there was still time. While they were still small. Before they moved on to the next chapter, or the life beyond. It all feels like a sacred trust.
All this time, since long before I started my business, I've been developing my photography skills, including my "eye". It really helps to know what to look for, what gear and settings you need to capture it, how to position yourself, how to frame it. But before any of that matters, you have to decide what world you're going to live in.
Here's what makes the difference for me: I choose Eden.
In the beginning of the Genesis account, God affirms the goodness and beauty of every part of his creation. His delight is palpable--he thought of everything, there is more than enough to go around! As the story moves forward, humans choose to create their own versions of what's good for them over partnership with God in the world he envisioned, but wherever he finds a willing soul, he invites them join him in cultivating new life, Eden style.
Dwelling in Eden is a conscious choice to call God's creation good--to seek out evidence of it everywhere, and nurture it to grow and multiply. For me, it's most naturally done with a camera. Here's to another ten years of looking for signs of glory, in the earth and its creatures, and the humanity that God loves. I guarantee you I will find them. My photos are my thank you notes, and my invitation to others to join me.
Consider yourself invited!
"Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
O Lord, you preserve both man and beast.
How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men
find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light."
Psalm 36:5-9
