Here is a list of Eric Kim’s Taoist approaches to photography:

1. Street Photography as Walking Meditation

• Kim sees street photography as a meditative practice, where the act of walking slowly with a camera helps calm the mind and foster awareness oai_citation:9,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

1. Letting Go

• Influenced by Taoist teachings, Kim emphasizes letting go of attachment to photos, missed opportunities, and even failed photography projects, which reduces anxiety and stress oai_citation:8,15 (More) Lessons Taoism Has Taught Me About Street Photography – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,The Tao of Street Photography – ERIC KIM.

1. Embrace Wu Wei (Effortless Action)

• Taoist philosophy of non-forcing (wu wei) is central to his approach. Kim encourages allowing photographic opportunities to come naturally without forcing or chasing them oai_citation:6,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

1. No Good or Bad Photos

• In line with Taoism’s principle of non-judgment, Kim advises not to label photos as “good” or “bad,” but to accept them as they are oai_citation:5,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

1. Finding Beauty in the Mundane

• Kim applies Taoist philosophy by focusing on the beauty of everyday scenes, wrinkles on faces, or ordinary streets, promoting an appreciation of the small and simple oai_citation:4,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

1. Child’s Mind (Beginner’s Mind)

• He encourages photographers to approach their work with curiosity and openness, similar to a child, which aligns with the Taoist idea of maintaining a “beginner’s mind” to stay creative and flexible oai_citation:3,The Tao of Street Photography – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

1. Unlearning

• To cultivate a more intuitive photographic practice, Kim suggests “unlearning” rigid rules and techniques that block creativity, paralleling Taoist ideals of simplicity and spontaneity oai_citation:1,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

This list captures how Taoism’s core principles guide Kim’s approach to photography.

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Eric Kim integrates Taoist philosophy into his approach to photography, particularly street photography, by focusing on principles like “letting go,” appreciating the present moment, and embracing simplicity. He sees street photography as a form of “walking meditation” — an act of slowing down, observing the world without rushing, and capturing beauty in the mundane. This aligns with Taoist teachings of living harmoniously with the natural flow of life.

One core Taoist principle that Kim applies is the idea of wu wei, or effortless action. Rather than forcing moments or chasing the perfect shot, he encourages photographers to be patient, let opportunities come naturally, and trust their instincts. This helps reduce the stress and pressure often associated with street photography. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of “letting go” — whether that means discarding weak photos or moving on from missed photographic moments without regret, echoing Taoism’s advocacy for flexibility and non-attachment.

Kim also suggests cultivating a “beginner’s mind,” which Taoism equates with childlike curiosity and openness. By unlearning rigid rules and preconceived notions, photographers can rediscover joy and spontaneity in their work, focusing on personal fulfillment rather than external validation through social media likes or critiques oai_citation:3,15 (More) Lessons Taoism Has Taught Me About Street Photography – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,The Tao of Street Photography – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,How to Become a Zen Photographer – ERIC KIM.

Through these teachings, Kim offers a refreshing, mindful approach to photography, merging creativity with Taoist principles to foster a deeper connection with the world around him.