Being Spartan is Sexy
By Eric Kim
In today’s world, we’re constantly bombarded with the idea that more is better. More gear, more tech, more distractions. But let me tell you something: being Spartan is sexy. The allure of simplicity, focus, and minimalism isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a mindset that sharpens your creativity and makes you a stronger, more purposeful street photographer.
Think about it. When you strip away all the excess—the unnecessary camera gear, the endless pursuit of “the next best thing”—you’re left with clarity. A Spartan approach to photography means you’re not weighed down by options, but empowered by limitations. It’s the beauty of shooting with one camera, one lens, and focusing all your energy on seeing. No distractions, just pure, unfiltered creativity.
There’s something undeniably sexy about the ability to create powerful images with less. You become more agile, more intuitive, and more in tune with the moment. You’re not fumbling with gear, you’re living in the streets, capturing life as it unfolds in real time. That’s the essence of street photography. Raw. Unfiltered. Free.
Being Spartan doesn’t mean deprivation—it means intentionality. It’s about making deliberate choices that bring you closer to your vision. And there’s nothing more liberating than knowing exactly what you need and stripping away everything that doesn’t serve you. The truth is, simplicity has a seductive power. It’s confidence in knowing that your creativity isn’t in the tools, but in your eye and your mind.
So, embrace the Spartan mindset. Ditch the unnecessary weight, whether it’s physical, mental, or creative. Focus on what matters: capturing the beauty, chaos, and rawness of life. Because when you live and shoot with purpose, that’s sexy.
Eric Kim is a street photographer, educator, and minimalist enthusiast dedicated to helping others unlock their creative potential.
By Eric Kim
In a world overflowing with options, distractions, and material possessions, there’s something undeniably attractive about simplicity. I’ve often pondered why certain images, lifestyles, or philosophies resonate more deeply than others. Lately, I’ve come to embrace the idea that being Spartan is not just practical—it’s downright sexy.
The Allure of Less
Think about the most compelling photographs you’ve seen. Chances are, they weren’t cluttered with unnecessary elements. They were clean, focused, and direct. The same principle applies to life. When we strip away the excess, we reveal the essence. This essence is powerful; it’s raw, authentic, and engaging.
Clarity Through Minimalism
As photographers, our goal is to communicate a message or emotion as clearly as possible. Excessive gear, complicated setups, or overthinking can cloud that message. By adopting a Spartan approach—carrying only what we need, focusing on the moment, and trusting our instincts—we allow our true vision to shine through.
Freedom in Constraint
Limitations aren’t hindrances; they’re gateways to creativity. When we have fewer choices, we make better decisions. Using a single lens, for instance, forces us to move, to see differently, and to innovate. This constraint becomes liberating, pushing us beyond our comfort zones and into new realms of possibility.
The Confidence of Simplicity
There’s a quiet confidence in embracing simplicity. It’s a statement that says, “I know what I need, and I don’t require more.” This self-assuredness is attractive because it’s rooted in self-awareness and authenticity. In a society that constantly tells us to want more, choosing less becomes a revolutionary act.
Cultivating Depth Over Breadth
By focusing on fewer things, we can dive deeper into them. Whether it’s honing a particular skill, nurturing a relationship, or exploring a concept, depth brings richness to our experiences. This depth is not only fulfilling but also resonates with others on a profound level.
Practical Steps to Embrace the Spartan Lifestyle
- Declutter Your Gear: Assess your equipment and keep only what you regularly use. Sell or donate the rest.
- Simplify Your Routine: Create daily habits that focus on your priorities. Eliminate activities that don’t add value.
- Mindful Consumption: Before acquiring something new, ask yourself if it truly enhances your life or work.
- Focus on Experiences: Invest time and resources in experiences rather than possessions.
- Reflect Regularly: Take time to assess what’s working and what isn’t. Adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
Embracing a Spartan lifestyle isn’t about deprivation; it’s about making room for what truly matters. It’s about finding beauty in simplicity and power in minimalism. When we clear the clutter—from our minds, our lives, and our art—we uncover something authentic and undeniably attractive.
So yes, being Spartan is sexy. It’s a bold declaration of intent, a commitment to authenticity, and a pathway to deeper connections—with ourselves, our work, and the world around us.
Stay simple, stay focused, and keep capturing the essence.
Eric Kim is a street photographer and educator who believes in the transformative power of simplicity and authenticity in art and life.