Why Photography Is More Than Just a Hobby
I've been reflecting on a question that's been on my mind lately: Why do I take pictures? Why photography over other hobbies like golf, badminton, tennis, or pickleball? It's something I’ve been going back and forth on, and I’m sure it’s a topic that will continue to evolve in my mind.
The first reason is simple: I enjoy capturing the world as I see it. There’s something inherently fun and interesting about it. I believe I have a unique perspective on life, and photography allows me to share that perspective. I'm not doing this with the intention of becoming a famous photographer on Instagram, YouTube, or whatever platform is trending. For me, it’s about creating images that make me happy, that bring me joy. Is that selfish? Maybe, but I'm perfectly okay with that.
Another reason is that photography helps me truly see the world. Between the hustle of kids' activities, house chores, taking care of the dog, and work, it’s easy to get caught up in my head and just move through life on autopilot. There have been many times when I’ve gone on vacation and felt like I truly saw the world—noticed amazing stores in unique towns, observed the little details. But when I get back home, it’s the same routine: work, drop off the kid, repeat. However, when I have a camera in my hand, even if I don’t take a picture, my brain slows down enough for me to notice the little things—the crack in the sidewalk, the shadow crossing a path, the way someone stands in a particular light. With a camera, I feel like I’m truly part of life, not just walking through it.
But perhaps the most important reason is that photography allows me to leave something behind in this world. There’s something powerful about photography—if you preserve your work correctly, it can outlive you. It becomes your legacy. Taking pictures of my family, my life, is my way of cementing that legacy in my own voice. When I look at photos of people and pets who have passed away, those pictures mean that they’re never really gone. I can always think about them, and I do—like my two dogs, who I think about all the time because I see their pictures regularly. I remember the stories behind almost every photo that pops up on my phone. Preserving these pictures now means that in the future, when I’m long gone or towards the end of my life, they will be the legacy of my life. And that’s incredibly powerful.
In the end, photography is just another way to express ourselves. These days, with everyone having a phone in their pocket, anyone can take a picture. But I believe there’s a difference between those who actively practice photography and those who take random snapshots. I’m not judging either approach, but there is a distinction. For me, I take pride in the pictures I take and the legacy I’m building through them.