is photography lonely?
Someone asked me recently if I feel lonely when I'm out taking pictures. After all, most of photography is done when I'm by myself.
I've spent weeks alone on the road. Sometimes, like during the trip to South Dakota a few years ago, I go a few days without even seeing another human being. I don't go backpacking as often as I'd like to, but when I do, again, I usually find myself alone in the wilderness.
Does it feel lonely? No, not really.
It doesn't feel that way because I know those are temporary moments, and that I will eventually reunite with my loved ones.
Rather, I use that time to not just create images and videos, but to be with myself. I'm that kind of person that needs some alone time every once in a while, and photography gives me a chance to do just that.
This is my personal approach to photography. I know many people for whom photography is an activity they practice when they are around friends and family.
What kind of photographer are you? Do you prefer to be alone when taking photographs? Or do you enjoy the company of others?
new images
new videos
The light at the end of the road. I’m obsessed with that light. I’ve passed by it hundreds of times on my daily walks, always snapping a quick picture. I’ve seen it in almost every possible condition. But never like a few days ago. It was just perfect.
This is the video of what I talked about in last week’s newsletter. I drove to St Joseph, Michigan, looking for cold. And I found it.
If you live in America chances are, you are getting some snow right now. Here in Northern Indiana we are supposed to get up to 12” (30cm) overnight, so tomorrow should be interesting for photography. I hope you can take advantage of this weather as well.
That being said, be extremely careful out there. Snow is pretty, but ice is very dangerous. Avoid the roads as much as you can, and always tell someone what you are planning to do. It’s pretty cold out there and many times we underestimate the power of nature. I myself made that mistake today, and I had to call Rachel to come “rescue” me. So please be safe.
Have a great week and talk to you next Monday,
Adrian
I definitely prefer shooting alone. There is a creative process involved in my approach to composition and as someone who easily gets distracted, lone shooting is my way of spending quality time. Great shots.
Hi Adrian, I always prefer shooting alone - I need to concentrate 100% on what I am doing and other people - or even my dog - distract me. It's almost a zen-like, meditative experience which I absolutely love, it energises and excites me, and having someone else there just gets in the way of me letting go and doing what I need to do. Of course, I could just be anti-social 😂 PS I understand your light fixation perfectly!