Once the pandemic started I knew that celebrations would sadly come to a halt. Now that we have approached a year since the shutdown I began to reminisce a bit about all the events I had captured. I was taken back to the time I walked into this very room and like a moth to a flame I was immediately drawn to the candlelight. As I starred at this image I saw something beyond the surface, the fire that burns within all of us. The flame represented the ideas and beliefs we hold so tightly and with this particular lens we are not able to see all that lies beyond the frame. Just as a lens can give you a limited perspective, so can your mindset.
As I moved back, it was only a handful of steps that would be required to change my outlook completely. I noticed the sleek table, the translucent chairs and the captivating artwork on the wall. It was at this viewpoint I had a broader vision of the space and could appreciate all the colors and textures around me. I was no longer limited by my ideas, but delighted by the prospect of exploring the territory further. As in life, once we let in more information, new thoughts and feelings emerge.
As I turned my head I could see a whole new world across the way. My curiosity moved my feet into the next room and I was excited about what I would find, not an ounce of apprehension or a drop of fear. It is when we hesitate and don’t explore the rooms beyond our own that we don’t evolve our frame of mind. As I reflected on my career as a photographer I realized I’ve had countless opportunities for self discovery and powerful insight and photographing this room was no exception.
As I stood in this amazing space and took my shots I was elated and so grateful for the opportunity to capture the ideas of so many brilliant individuals. I felt a part of a very special community of creatives during this event and it was an absolute privilege to photograph these gifts for all the participants to enjoy. Everything was considered, from how the lights hit the tables, to the color of the couches to the placement of the art pieces. It was a well orchestrated collaboration and truly stunning to witness.
This experience taught me something very significant about how to live my life. Although we may be attracted to the flame at first glance, that one amazing idea we hold close to our hearts, it is when we change our lens to a wider perspective we can see what others can bring to table. If we are open to this thought, a whole new world reveals itself and we can be changed for the better.