Existential Photography

My buddy Jeffrey Lam is currently writing a paper on “Existential Health”; the idea that now, health is more of a philosophical issue.

Which made me realize: at this point photography is the same. Photography is an existential (philosophy of purpose) thing!

Exist

Existential means: the philosophy of existence:

What is the purpose of my life and my own personal existence?

We like to make photos; and the question becomes:

What kind of photos do we desire to create, and how do we derive the maximum amount of joy, hope, optimism, and joy in photography?

Obviously there is no ultimate answer here– you must determine the answer for yourself.

What is your self-directed purpose of existing?

Or in simple words:

For what or *why* do you wake up every morning (if you had the option)?

For example, I will give you my answer:

I exist to come up with new epic ideas which I hope can ultimately empower others.

For me, I see photography as a tool or as a lens/means to see the world and experience with reality. For myself, the ultimate aim isn’t photographic– it is something deeper (philosophical).

Delight in reality

One of the main reasons why I enjoy photography so much is that it connects me more with reality, and helps me discover more joy in being alive!

The camera for me is like augmented reality/augmented vision. Photography has helped me discover more beauty in shapes, forms, colors, tones, textures– while also helping me better appreciate my loved ones, and other humans around myself.

This is why I think it is essential to photograph your loved ones, and use the camera as a way of showing love/appreciation for those you love and care about.