Pixpa
At its brilliant best, photography, whether it is through the eyes of the person behind the camera or the interest of the general public, tends to stir up feelings of passion.
Pick up a newspaper, flip the pages of a magazine, or browse the internet and you are more than likely to find an example of such impressive, inspiring work. Today, with camera phones constantly ready for action and social media prepared to share it all, there is an incredible array of photography available.
Martin Jerge, a freelance photographer in Los Angeles, California, explains why so many people are impassioned on the subject of photography.
Element of Discovery
A zealous appreciation of photography is often tied to the curiosity associated with the outside world, a desire to uncover what is there, waiting to be captured. Martin Jerge notes that this is an identical motive for both the photographer — who hopes to collect evidence of this unique sighting — and the casual observer — who wants to see something new or different. That same infatuation that encouraged the photographer to collect it is responsible for the consumer giving it their full attention, even if it is merely a split-second commitment.
Remarkable Storytelling
Cliche as it may sound, the phrase “a picture says a thousand words” perfectly describes photography and why it instills an abundance of emotion, Martin Jerge says. Each picture reveals a story on its own and it can generate a wide range of passion as it educates, excites, and enlightens. An article will provide the finer details on the events or circumstances surrounding the photograph, but it is the shot itself that initially lures us in. Also, the photograph is what generally leaves a lasting imprint in our minds long after we have read the story. While certain pieces of the narrative will fade with time, we will always be able to recall that memorable photograph.
Photography is a Universal Art
Another major reason why people express such passion for photography is because it comes with no language barriers, Martin Jerge states. Anyone can become fascinated with a photograph’s focus when it is expertly presented and come away with a sense of happiness, sadness, frustration, wonder, or any other form of passion. Photography allows everyone entry that is unparalleled, complete comprehension of what is occurring. Even television and film productions cannot reach such an enormous number of people unless they were to somehow offer subtitles or an interpretation in all languages.
Comprehensive Coverage
For those who are massive critics on other topics, photography can still consume them with passion because it highlights all relevant people, places, and perspectives. Your interests, should they be history, architecture, landscapes, or a conclusion that was previously unheard of, have in all likelihood been witnessed and snapped by a photographer. Voiceless parties are given an outlet to be viewed, scenic areas that are out of reach for many people are caught on a camera and shared, and events that would perhaps be neglected without photographic updates are brought to a widescale audience.
Memorable Moments
Because they can remain accessible in one form or another, photographs can preserve a memory for future generations to behold. How often do we find ourselves coming across photographs that were completely forgotten about? Re-living a precious, valuable moment in such a fashion will only amplify a person’s appreciation for photography, Martin Jerge says. Next time you are engaged in spring cleaning or PC offloading, and you happen to feast your eyes on some long-lost photographs, go through them patiently.
Photography’s Playground for Creativity
There are various creative choices, from lighting to the angle of the shot. Phenomenal photography, the kind that breeds passion within the photographer and their eventual audience, is a result of these creative factors being utilized smartly. Sometimes, the details (a facial expression, the appearance of an odd animal or a beautiful backdrop) take an otherwise ordinary photograph and turn it into a special spotting. Several famous landmarks, for instance, have been photographed repeatedly; however, there always seems to be that one image that stands out from the rest; a new take, if you will.
No Restrictions
Although there might be the isolated incident that prevents a photographer from pursuing their goal, generally, they are free to go after anything with a camera. That freedom fuels passion and, just as the photographer enjoys free rein to explore, a person can be stimulated by said individual’s work and attempt their own photography. After all, anyone can purchase a camera or use their cell phone for picture-taking purposes. A hobby can easily transition into a passionate pleasure that consumes their time and commitment as they grow into ardent students of the craft. Photography’s most beautiful aspect is that it is obtainable by any person who is willing to pick up a camera.
Final Thoughts from Martin Jerge
As Martin Jerge has shown, people are passionate about photography because of its mighty power and the fact that everyone can, on some level, relate to its messages. Photographers, despite often being underpaid, have dedicated their entire professional lives to creating, editing, teaching, analyzing, and assisting other photographers in improving. If not tremendous passion, then what else can motivate a person to such an extent over the years? Every day, before or during work, people are exposed to and impassioned by these photographs that shape their ideas surrounding humanity, identity, connection, memory, presence and experience, with no barriers imposed upon them. A single photograph can compel an individual into action, shift their thoughts and spark amazing change. Photography, and the passion it spreads, knows no bounds, limitations or barriers; it is there for all to absorb.
