Capturing the beauty of life: Photography

Dear Reader,

Recently, I picked up photography as a new hobby to play with. I’ve dwelt on the idea of posting some pictures here on my blog, and here they are.

Photography is something that has style, something that manipulates one's brain to perceive emotions, thoughts, and reactions, unlike any other storytelling medium.

The ground of a trail in NH

I really like nature. I think that nature envigorates a human's innate love for the wild. As a late Generation Z, and a so-called “Digital Native”, I think we immerse ourselves too deep in the magic, fantastical land of technology. The 21st century has brought leaps in technological progress, and that has improved the lives of so many. Yet we cannot fathom going backward, and to experience our roots in a simpler life.

Going from urban Beijing to rural New Hampshire was a big change, yet something in my own human nature changed.

I was happier.

Going through the magical trails during the winter months is an amazing experience all generations from diverse walks of life should appreciate.

A trail, in the winter, NH

Lots of trees clumped together, with a little area inside of it.

Despite the continued stress of academics, athletics, and various other commitments, photography has become a safe haven for me.

Although I find a hidden nostalgia in the art of photography, my other hobbies in 3D printing have pushed me to be an incredibly technical person. As such, photography gear amazes me greatly. I currently own a Sony A7Rii, which I bought off eBay, and a Fujifilm XT10 handed down to me from my mother. The Sony has a 24mm f/2 lens, whilst the XT10 has a 18–135mm f/3.5-f/5.6 lens.

I don't think equipment should affect one’s ability to create emotionally connected, well-composed, and unique photos. For me, the simple answer to why I have two cameras would be that both have unique characteristics which make them fantastic cameras in two arenas.

1. Raw photo taking, fast autofocus. — Sony
2. Film simulations, beautiful jpegs, lightweight “fun” camera — Fuji

With that aside, I think that capturing the beauty of the natural surroundings around me, relates greatly to my personal love of nature.

I appreciate nature with great respect, I go on trails nearly daily. Although I have been to many places around the world, ranging from both coasts of the US and my homeland, China, I have found nothing more beautiful and creatively fulfilling than the landscapes of rural NH.

My photos may not please all, however through them I find a way to express myself in a different medium, which I value.

A beaver did this.

A beech trees leaves, unique for staying on long after winter has come.

I for one enjoy nature photography for its unique characteristics and how it tickles my innate love of both the natural world but also my old soul who values the expressive creative freedoms of a camera.

I hope you enjoyed this, see you soon.