Picture Perfect

The digital age has democratized pretty much everything. We can write, publish, photograph, film and compose stories, pictures, movies, music whenever and wherever we want. All with one device. But there’s a line between talent and skill. I may be able to write words on this little blog, but having an editor would only make it better. Same goes for photography.

There are millions of us who use our phones or DSLRs to take pictures, add our filters, post to Instagram or Tumblr and go on our way. Some take the time to set up a frame or play with lighting or adjust their shutter speed to capture that perfect moment. Over the last few years, I’ve fallen in love with photography. As a film major way back when (when we actually shot on 16mm film!) I had to frame each shot with the right lighting — learning how to use a light meter, whoa boy. And when I travel, I try to tap into that muscle memory.

Whenever there’s a vacation or cause to bring the camera, I’m the one who becomes Ansel Adams. My wife has graciously and generously allowed me to play cameraman, knowing that it gives me pleasure. When I take a picture, I get to pay attention to my surroundings. In our day-to-day hustle and bustle we tend to ignore the beauty of where we are, of what what we’re doing. Taking pictures means recognizing and appreciating that beauty. Even if that beauty is a selfie.

Here are a few of the pictures I’ve taken over the years that always give me that sense of awe:

Sunset in Paris, over the Seine

Charles Bridge, Prague

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Florence, Italy

Oia, Santorini

Occupy Wall Street in the rain

New York City

Mrs S doing a headstand in Positano, Italy