The Impact of Japanese Wisdom on My Photography
Photography can transcends merely capturing images; it involves conveying emotions, telling stories, and immortalizing the essence of ephemeral moments. My journey in photography has always been about blending traditional wisdom with cutting-edge technology. A few months ago I stumbled upon the YouTube video titled "5 Japanese Philosophies to Improve Your Photography," which has profoundly influenced my approach to photography. Let me share how these philosophies have enhanced my skills and deepened my appreciation for this art form.
Kaizen: Continuous Improvement
The philosophy of Kaizen, which means 'change for the better', initially gained international recognition through the business practices of Toyota. However, its application extends far beyond, touching the realms of personal growth and creativity. In photography, Kaizen encourages me to embrace continual, incremental improvements. Every time I grab my camera I make sure to see an opportunity to refine my technique, shift my perspective, or experiment with new styles. This philosophy reminds me that mastery is a constant journey, not a destination.
Suki: Love What You Do
Suki, translating to 'love what you do,' resonates deeply with me. This principle underlines the importance of passion in photography. Loving the process naturally drives me to spend more time taking photos, study the work of people who came before me, and exploring different narratives through my lens. It’s this love for photography that keeps my Ricoh Gr3x with me, chasing the perfect light or capturing a fleeting moment.
Nanakorobi Yaoki: Resilience
The saying 'fall seven times and stand up eight' encapsulates the essence of resilience. Photography, much like life, is fraught with setbacks and failures—missed opportunities, technical mishaps, or the occasional harsh critique. Each of these setbacks, while frustrating, is a stepping stone towards improvement. This philosophy reminds me to persevere, learn from each mistake, and return stronger and more determined.
Ichigo Ichie: Cherish Every Moment
Ichigo Ichie, meaning 'one time, one meeting', teaches the importance of valuing every encounter as if it were once-in-a-lifetime. This is particularly poignant in everyday life and landscape photography, where moments are fleeting and unique. Adopting this mindset has transformed how I shoot, making me more attentive and approach each day as something truly irreplaceable.
Junto Iro: Embrace Your Unique Style
Junto Iro, or 'ten people, ten colors', celebrates individuality. Finding and nurturing my style is daunting yet essential in a world teeming with photographers and visual content. This philosophy encouraged me to appreciate my unique perspective and creative voice, rather than constantly comparing myself to others. It’s through the process of embracing my individuality that my photographs have begun to feel authentically mine, telling their own stories.
Integrating these five Japanese philosophies into my practice has not only sharpened my technical skills but also enriched my understanding and love for photography. These teachings guide me to lead a more thoughtful, purposeful creative life. These philosophies are an on going practice, each shot offering a new lesson, a new opportunity to connect with the world.