Seeing the Light
Walking home late one evening, a glowing red "EXIT" sign caught my attention. I could see it clearly through the window of a maintenance building. I had noticed it plenty of times before, but this time, the blue sky and diminishing light outside complemented it perfectly. A barbed wire fence surrounding the building only added to the ominous feel. So, I unzipped my camera from its case.
When I stop to observe an interesting or unusual scene, thoughts quickly begin to arise. Photography requires focus and attention to detail, which allows time for these thoughts to expand and linger like a dense fog swirling in my mind. I delight in entertaining them, drawing parallels between these free-flowing ideas and my photos. By the time I walk away, my head is swimming with meaning and metaphor, all derived from what might otherwise be considered mundane.
Although these thoughts may not be grand revelations, they are still worth contemplating. The conclusions I draw strengthen my sense of connectedness to my surroundings—and to humanity. I begin to recognize recurring patterns and underlying values. If one is sensitive and receptive enough, there are lessons to be found in everything.
Through the lens of my camera, the exit sign morphed into a single flaming red dot, suspended behind the cold, imposing window of the shelter. It loosely resembled a fire in a cave. In many ways, technology has replaced fire. The imaginations of early hominids were once stirred by flickering flames and the dancing shadows cast upon the cave walls. Stories were told, relationships formed.
Today, a more "advanced" society gathers around screens in their living spaces, often alone. The shadows have been replaced by digital animations and sound, accurately portraying stories. Imagination is now more easily smothered than kindled. There is no warmth in artificial light.
Like the barbed wire surrounding the building, technology can create a nearly impenetrable barrier between us and a more wholesome relationship—with nature, with others, and with ourselves. Just as the glowing sign mimicked the appearance of fire, technology may seem gratifying, but at what cost? Bearing these thoughts in mind, the camera suddenly felt awkward in my hands. The images contained within it lost some of their appeal. They don’t compare to reality.
