THE LITTLE BOOK OF CONTEMPLATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY:
Seeing with Wonder, Respect, and Humility
Author: Howard J Zehr
Publisher: Good Books
Publication Date: March 2005
Publisher: Good Books
Publication Date: March 2005
Fascinating look at photography as a newway of seeing from restorative justice pioneer and accomplished photographer, Howard Zehr. Ignoring the rules absorbed over time, embracing wonder and openness in seeing one's world and self. "Instead of Descartes' stance of doubt..approach life and the world in an attitude of wonder...begins with appreciation rather than suspicion...an openness to possibilities."
Encouraged to become aware of light and shadow; pattern and placement; in composing and in spiritual insights. Journalling the journey of discovery with one's camera as companion.
Zehr's own notes and quotes from various sources inspirit the reader to look anew at the familiar, remaining receptive to what the space is offering. Receive from it. A helpful chart offers definition in comparing typical photography perspective as 'taking' vs photography as 'receiving'. Focus on final product vs process; expose' vs revelation; aggression vs respect. All challenging to personal thought regarding the act of photographing and effects on the results of the act.
Each chapter of informed discussion is followed with purposeful exercises to implement and explore the theme discussed. I anticipate more amazing learning by experimenting with his practical activities. Reflecting on the results is the valued takeaway.
Zehr admits, "I have written this book in part to encourage myself to slow down, to heighten my imagination, to renew myself while I gain a new view of the creation and the creator."
The same influencing reasons I chose to read the book. I was not disappointed.
Highly recommended. For information. For inspiration.
Encouraged to become aware of light and shadow; pattern and placement; in composing and in spiritual insights. Journalling the journey of discovery with one's camera as companion.
Zehr's own notes and quotes from various sources inspirit the reader to look anew at the familiar, remaining receptive to what the space is offering. Receive from it. A helpful chart offers definition in comparing typical photography perspective as 'taking' vs photography as 'receiving'. Focus on final product vs process; expose' vs revelation; aggression vs respect. All challenging to personal thought regarding the act of photographing and effects on the results of the act.
Each chapter of informed discussion is followed with purposeful exercises to implement and explore the theme discussed. I anticipate more amazing learning by experimenting with his practical activities. Reflecting on the results is the valued takeaway.
Zehr admits, "I have written this book in part to encourage myself to slow down, to heighten my imagination, to renew myself while I gain a new view of the creation and the creator."
The same influencing reasons I chose to read the book. I was not disappointed.
Highly recommended. For information. For inspiration.
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