Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Reflections on Learning to See

by Kelly


Look at everything as though you were seeing it for the first time or last time.  Then your time on earth will be filled with glory.  Betty Smith

It’s hard for me to believe, but one week ago I was enjoying the warm sunshine and amazing blue skies of Puerto Vallarta.


My family and I spent three glorious days soaking up the sun and some much-needed vitamin D {not to mention getting a little color on our pitifully pale, winter skin}.


As I’ve mentioned before, my husband is the adventurer of the family.  In the twenty plus years we've been married, he’s taken me, literally, half-way around the world and to some of the most beautiful places on earth.


And of course, as the family documentarian, I have always brought my camera along to try to record and preserve these wonderful memories.


Just like in years past, Tripp and Kelsey know that I’ll be snapping photos.  Capturing memories.  But these days, they have also learned that usually, at some point in our vacation, I will take off on my own with my camera.  Because photography, for me, isn’t only about preserving memories any more.


Photography has truly changed the way I see the world.


As I was walking around our resort one afternoon, I was reflecting {pun totally intended}on this month’s theme ~ reflections.  


I love shooting with a theme in mind - it's great for creativity and pushing me out of my comfort zone.  But it's more than that.  It's developing an awareness, being intentional...and what I love is that it helps me to see better. So therefore the more I looked for reflections, the more I saw reflections everywhere.


And as true as this philosophy helps me with my photography, it is equally beneficial in the way I am trying to live my life.  Looking for beauty, seeking wonder…the more I seek, the more I find. 


It is times like these that I am so grateful for this gift.  So thankful for photography.  Helping me to see and filling my life with glory.


As always, thank you for letting me share it with you.

Until next time
Kelly

10 comments:

Nancy said...

My husband is also the adventurous one in our partnership and that has brought me out of my shell a time or two! Lovely images of your vacation.

Dotti said...

Ahhhh ... I can feel the warmth of those photos as I sit here looking out my window at the ... wait for it ... SNOW! Yes! Thankfully, it's not sticking to the ground, only trees, bushes, cars, people who stand still too long ... that kind of thing, so school wasn't cancelled.

Yes, Kelly, I have to agree. The memory photos are wonderful but it's the 'real' photos that fill my soul when I'm traveling, or any time for that matter. Sometimes it's just so hard to do while traveling. Bravo to Trip and Kelsey for understanding and letting you 'do your thing'.

terriporter said...

I completely identify with your wanting to get off on your own with your camera and play and so wonderful that Kelsey and Tripp "get" that! Looks like you had a fabulous time and have lots of beautiful shots to show for it. Having just come back from a trip where I was able to spend time with two other photographers, I know that I shoot completely differently when I'm either alone or with other people who are seeing things through their lenses. You are right, the more beauty you seek the more you find. So grateful for that!

Linda/patchwork said...

Very good post. And, beautiful photos, as usual.
My husband is the adventurous one here, too. He's taken me places I didn't know I wanted to see. And, I've always been the one who took the pictures. In fact, sometimes you can't even tell I was there....lol
But, taking that camera always makes me 'see more'.
Thanks for sharing your trip. That's a lovely place.

heyjudephotography said...

Love your photos Kelly! I feel the same way. I've been a photographer for so long, and I'm so grateful for that - for photography has taught me to really see and appreciate. And isn't that what its all about? Glad you had a great trip, and glad you're home safe and sound.

Roxi H said...

Beautiful as always. Love the shot with the blue glasses. Such warmth, love!

Sarah Huizenga said...

I think it is great to transform to the family documenter of memories to the capturing of life and beauty.

Cathy H. said...

Sarah hit it on the nail! Through classes, blogs and friends we've transformed into capturing life, moments, and beauty with our hearts!

Ida said...

What a wonderful post. I really enjoyed reading your thoughts and seeing your photos. My favorite was that lovely blue flower hanging down on the vine.

susan said...

Love seeing your reflection in your husband's sunglasses! Looks like a beautiful place to take some time off. xo

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