Author: Abhilasha Rajan

Thoughts on Photography

As I observe the world around me, I am filled with a profound sense of wonder. Every object, whether it be an earthling or a celestial being, holds within it a captivating story that my eyes can perceive and my mind can absorb. These stories, intricately woven into the fabric of existence, are not only the tales of those I observe but also a reflection of myself as an eager witness. However, I am aware that my capacity to fully comprehend and embrace the multifaceted dimensions of these narratives is limited. I can only strive to be present in the moment, capturing fragments of these stories through the lens of the devices in my hands.

Through the art of photography, I have the privilege of freezing moments that I have lived in, encapsulating them within the confines of a frame. As a mother, I am granted an extraordinary gift—an expansion of my vision, courtesy of two additional eyes and an extra mind. This newfound perspective allows me to create and experience these moments in a different light. It is a profound connection that I share with the world when viewing it through the eyes of my child. Together, we witness the intricate tapestry of life, forging unique bonds with the flowers, birds, trees, insects, rivers, mountains, seas, celestial bodies, and everything in between. My camera becomes a tool that captures not just images but also the intertwining threads of our shared experiences.

In my quest to capture these precious moments, I have learned the importance of restraint. Frequently succumbing to the desire to document everything around me would only serve to distance me from the present. It is during these moments that I release the urge to capture and instead allow myself to fully immerse in the act of observation.

There are instances when I feel an unspoken connection with the birds, as if their gaze penetrates straight into the depths of my soul, urging me to put aside the camera that acts as a barrier between us. In those moments, I realize that our consciousness is intertwined, and I question whether I have sought their approval before attempting to immortalize them in photographs. These contemplations arise especially when engaging in discussions with my child about the importance of seeking permission. It is in these moments of reflection that I find myself wondering: How can I respectfully seek permission from the birds, the trees, the flowers…? And to my astonishment, my child responds with a simple yet profound answer: “Connect with their minds.”

In the depths of that innocent response lies a profound truth. Perhaps the key to seeking permission from the natural world lies not in spoken words or explicit agreements but in the quiet connection we establish with the essence of all living beings. It is through our shared consciousness, our ability to empathize and understand, that we can respectfully navigate our interactions with the world around us. By cultivating a deep sense of connection and mindfulness, we can attune ourselves to the subtle rhythms of nature, allowing us to harmoniously coexist with the birds, trees, flowers, and every other magnificent creation that graces our existence.

I put the moments captured through different devices here.