I took a small break from it all after emotional and hectic times, saying goodbye to someone so dearly loved. I feel a profound desire to pursue my search for more light and color. Therefore I decided to not do anymore B&W photography, at least for now.
So often we say that whatever you do in life it is all a choice. But what is the meaning and value of choices when the decisions are made by others? When you’re just a mere part of a greater scheme of things? Or when you’re only option left is not really a choice anyway?
While it was a choice for many Syrians to stand up for democracy against a dictatorship, it wasn’t their choice that over 20 countries used, the protester’s desire for democracy and prosperity, as a theatre of proxy wars.
It can be a choice to vote someone mentally unfit or psychopathic into office, but in the end we’re all left harmed with the consequences.
It is sad and heartbreaking when you think you’re only option left is stepping out of this life. Thinking this week of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain. But also my former colleague David who committed suicide three years ago. Mental illness should be taken seriously. It can do harm to those affected, while family and friends ultimately left behind.
It is sad and heartbreaking when you’re being sick and your death sentence is already signed. And the only option remaining was certainly not the choice you wanted to make.
It is sad and heartbreaking that you’re choice is unwanted by others. Thinking of those who decided to leave their motherland, seeking peace, safety, and prosperity, but you’re not wanted by others.
I can’t give any sensible advice, I think. I don’t have a top 5 list with things to do. All I can say is to talk with one another. Respect each other and cherish all things in life, the beauty and ugliness, in all it’s purity. Just beware of the red signs and try to respond accordingly. I guess.
Photograph by Wouter Brandsma
“In life you need either inspiration or desperation” – Tony Robbins
Tumbling down
The last two weeks passed by faster than expected and there was no time to pause, edit, and process my photographs. Through a conversation with a friend I have been thinking about my direction in photography. Currently I am not really in search of new goals. And although I do have some ideas I have decided to keep these for myself until it matures and I feel more comfortable with it. In the meantime I try to follow my friend’s advice and try to celebrate life.
Look closely
Document life
The thing is, our lives matters. And it makes perfect sense to document these. We all have dreams, hopes, goals, and desires, yet what really matters is what you already have around you. Family, friends, maybe a pet, your camera. On the NY’s lens blog there was a great and honest story by Hiroyuki Ito remembering his cat. In between all the great issues of modern day life, politics, economics, this is worth to see.
Document life
Photograph by Wouter Brandsma
Street is where life takes place. Not directed and just real, no matter where you are.
All photographs by Wouter Brandsma
Wouter Brandsma 