I just discovered this video that took my breath away. I have been admiring Jen Lemen from afar, visiting her website and following her tweets. I knew that she and Stephanie Roberts were awarded $50,000 to travel the world to take pictures of their dream assignment. I have followed Jen’s journey, but I don’t think I fully grasped what this project was about until I saw this video. More than that, this video reminded me why I love photography and why I love taking photos. It’s not about the camera or the technical know-how or getting it just right. It is about the love. It’s about opening yourself to the person you are photographing so that they will open themselves up to you. It’s about letting go and uncovering the beauty in the moment. It’s about “seeing and being seen with our hearts wide open.”
Please watch this video. I’ve already watched it three times this morning and am bookmarking it to return to whenever I need a reminder of what’s important and why photography matters.
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This is lovely, Darrah. Thanks for sharing.
Did you ever see my guest post over at Shutter Sisters? It’s along the same lines – I think you’d like it. http://shuttersisters.com/home/2009/5/29/when-a-camera-is-more-than-just-a-camera.html
this is incredible. i hope i can someday use art to change lives like this.