Day 10 - Quiet
January 27, 2024
If memory serves me correct, I believe was the first day when I didn’t make a great effort to go out and take photos.
A few factors coming into play: draining day job, draining side job, non-ideal weather. A quiet and tired mind. We ended up with 2 photos essentially.
The Value of Shooting Every Day
At the outset of this project, I do not believe it was my intention to shoot every day. I wanted to document every day that I would end up going out to shoot, yes, but these were not necessarily consecutive days. Naturally, however, I have found myself wanting to take at least one photo a day, and to throw myself into new situations.
I believe some sentiments were captured by this video I recently watched/listened to. It was a great conversation with Lauren Welles posted on B&H Event Space on YouTube. I was not familiar with Lauren’s work, but am glad I have now come across it.
I highly recommend taking a listen as a lot of great topics are covered. One topic had to do with the variety of reasons with which photographers go outside. The one that resonated for me (at least in this point in time) is going out regularly to work out the creative muscles or train your eye. I would also add that these walks have been wonderful for clearing my thoughts and introducing some sort of physical activity back into my stagnant life.
Two additions would include a want to document the neighbourhoods I am walking (I felt this during the snowfall the previous day) and to increase the likelihood I will connect with someone. I have already connected with a number of new people, both online and in person, after starting this project.
And ultimately, I just really enjoy it. It’s one thing I look forward to.
Cleaning it up for me, the benefits of going on solo photowalks regularly:
Training your eye/creativity
Freedom to try new perspectives/techniques/limitations
Clearing thoughts/relaxing/mental health
Active thoughts/mental health
Physically moving/mental health
Documenting life, perhaps establishing a sense of belonging through photos
Increasing the chances of creating new relationships & bonds; expanding community
But even with these benefits, I find it imperative that you frequently monitor your own wellbeing. These walks, as rejuvenating as they are, still consume energy and time, so though I would like to push myself to take photos daily, I must remind myself this is neither a sprint nor commissioned project. I would like to approach it authentically and productively in a sustainable manner. So for today, just 3 photos, and that is fine.
Final shutter count: 7751
-J