We’ve been thinking a lot how photography changed the way we view the world around us, and we thought we’d share with you the things we realize after being in this industry for over a decade.
Noticing the Small Details
Before photography, we didn’t care much about how light and shadow fell on objects or people. We didn’t really stop to look at everyday textures, colors, or patterns (because, who has time for that?). But now, we pay close attention to all these elements, experimenting with them, and seeing how they can add character or interest to our stills.
Being Present in the Moment
Multitasking was a way of life for many of us in the team. Well, we still resort to it at times. But when we’re covering an event, we intentionally block out external noise and focus on the raw and unfiltered moments in front of us. We’re forced to slow down and observe (don’t get us wrong, we love what we do) because seconds are fleeting, and we might miss that perfect shot if we let our minds wander.
Finding Beauty in the Ordinary
Personally, I’ve never thought I’d see magic in mundane, everyday scenes. I live a fast-paced life, and so do our staff. But as photographers, we’ve become more appreciative of these events that we otherwise wouldn’t notice slipping away. We’ve featured individuals, couples, friends, and families in their daily routine, and they’re always surprised how their photos turn out to be exceptionally artistic.
Telling Stories Without Words
There’s voice in silence, and photography is a testament to that. After spending many years through the lens, we’re still in awe as to how a single image, frozen in time, can convey so much emotion and narrative. It makes us smile like crazy when clients suddenly send a message to us, months or even years after the job’s done, thanking us for how we perfectly immortalized a special day in their life.
Creating Lasting Memories
One thing we take pride in as photographers is how we get to help our clients stay in the moment. We’d love for you to be present on your precious day and leave the documentation to us. It’s our job to catch those priceless details – the shared laughter, tears you’re trying to hold back, and emotions your eyes show – so you can look back at them years from now, and feel as though they all occurred just yesterday.
The Shift in Perspective
Even without our cameras, we can’t help but look out for anything under the sun that we can document. So, yes, the image gallery on our phone is filled with random shots we’ve taken while out on the street, observing our surroundings or watching people get on with their day. Being photographers, we find ordinary details and moments worth covering and curating.
The Joy of Light and Shadow
It’s a normal quest for us to chase after the golden hour or the blue hour. When we plan for a photoshoot, whether indoors or outdoors, we always consider the type of lighting we have and how it’ll impact our results. We can now tell, more easily, how every angle or adjustment can make an image appear happier, brighter, or darker. And how lighting can effortlessly transform scenes throughout the day.
Embracing Imperfections
We welcome the unexpected in our photos. And yes, that includes the flaws and the blurs. Because sometimes, it’s these unplanned additions that make our shots more unique and memorable. Even our clients are amazed as to how these “imperfections” enhance their images.
How Photography Connects Us
We’ve lost count of the number of strangers we’ve helped as they attempt to take selfie shots around tourist attractions or even typical restaurants. We offered to take their photos, and some of those small conversations somehow turned to new friendships, career opportunities, and a deeper appreciation of different cultures.
Mindfulness Through Photography
Even outside work, we find ourselves focusing on composition, colors, and movement. As weird at it may sound, these quiet instances can be a meditative experience for us. We’re not pressured with a goal, just seeing and realizing over again how tiny details can add depth to an image.
That’s a lot, isn’t it? But we’re excited to seeing how this outlook, as photographers, will help not only as we grow our career, but also as individuals seeking to live better and kinder – continuing to find beauty in the ordinary, exercising gratefulness for the little things, and consciously slowing down amidst the everyday hustle and bustle New York’s notorious for.