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In two weeks from today The Business of Telling Stories begins. One outcome for many of my previous participants was a willingness to bring their cameras out in public and document life outside the home.
I love the images I take in my home. While you must always contend with limited light and space, images taken in your home tell the story of your life. They document moments we might otherwise forget. Some images are portfolio-worthy while others are just snapshots in time we love despite the crappy light and clutter in the background. But do not limit documenting your life to the walls of your home.
Yes, I take my camera (*6D + Sigma 35mm 1.4) everywhere. Movie theatre, quick trip to the grocery store, children’s museum, … everywhere. I have on occasion left it at home and I always regret it if something amazing happens. A few months ago I didn’t bring it to preschool dropoff and the kids were so cute playing with a huge cardboard box. I regretted that so much I didn’t leave my camera at home for a few more months. I don’t take pictures everywhere, but I want that option.
Is is heavy? Yes.
Do people stare when I pull it out? Yes, sometimes.
Do I care? Not really!
Now if I was better at taking pictures with my iPhone I might not take it everywhere. However, I can’t stand blurry iPhone pictures so I would rather carry the camera than only have blurry phone images. I am playing with getting something smaller, a Fuji x100s or Sony rX100 III, but I can’t make up my mind. Because of the Fuji-X Crew blog I have had a Fuji in my Amazon cart for weeks. Each has their benefits and faults, so until I find the perfect one for me I will continue to carry the “big girl” camera to capture everyday moments outside my home.
Just so we are clear. I am not saying to live behind your viewfinder instead of living in the moment. I am not saying that you need to take your camera everywhere or have it always ready to go, that is just me. What I am saying is don’t completely avoid documenting your life in public because it’s uncomfortable. Perhaps you just need a push to get outside your comfort zone. Start small, there are plenty of parents at the park taking pictures and no reason you can’t be one of them. Then try something else. I happen to love the light in coffee shops 😉
*In October 2014 I switched to shoot with Nikon D750 as my main body. As of December 2014 I only carry around a Fuji x100t for everyday shooting. Read about my love for Fuji here.
Every post needs pictures.
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