Recently, as I have immersed myself in the world of photography, I realized that “growth” does not belong solely to children or young people. Indeed, no matter how old we are, we are still growing—still discovering and understanding the world around us, as well as ourselves.
To onlookers, I might easily pass for a seasoned photography enthusiast because a camera is almost always hanging around my neck, accompanying me as I observe the world wherever I go. Perhaps because I look somewhat professional, passersby have even asked me to take photos of them recently.
Yet, this “photographer” look is only about two months old. In the realm of photography, I am still very much a child. As a result, almost everything feels fresh and new to me. A tiny flower by the roadside, or even a seemingly insignificant blade of grass, can make me pause for a long time—standing, crouching, and taking shot after shot, hoping to capture at least one image that satisfies me.
It feels as though I am seeing everything around me clearly for the first time, simply because I constantly try to “change my perspective.” Take photographing flowers, for instance: I used to take photos strictly from the front. Lately, however, I try shooting them from the side or behind. Or perhaps from a bit further away, a little closer, placing the bloom on the left, on the right, or right in the centre. In short, I try to explore every possible angle and dimension. Whether I am capturing trees, flowers, random objects, or architecture, I approach them all this way.
At the same time, I have started photographing things that seem “boring.” In the past, I would only take a picture if I found something inherently beautiful. Now, I will snap a bundle of withered grass, a staircase, or a spider. It is only when I get home and curate these photos that I realize these “boring” things can actually become quite beautiful with a few adjustments.
This is what I mean by “continuing to learn about the world as we grow.” Through my lens, the world is no longer the same. It harbours so many beautiful things, quietly keeping us company, simply waiting for us to discover and appreciate them.
I have also come to know myself better in the process. I have always known that I love vibrant colours, which is why my paintings are full of colour. But only now do I realize how much I appreciate black and white. When certain photos are converted to black and white, they exude an entirely different character—one that is even more captivating. It is difficult to describe the feeling in words, but it is a subtle stillness that invites you to slow down, savour, and feel deeply.
I am truly grateful that I began learning photography. It has brought so much joy into my life, along with many fresh insights. No matter what our age may be, let us keep growing, learning, and enjoying unprecedented happiness through new experiences!