I purchased my first DSLR camera back in 2013, taking a giant leap-of-faith into a hobby in which I knew literally nothing about. I've always had a desire to learn as much as I possibly could, and I strive to learn as many new things as I can. By purchasing my first DSLR, I knew I would be able to learn a new skill, as well as capture the world how I saw it.
Over the course of the following few years, I tried learning as many aspects of photography as I could, and have developed a true passion for capturing the world. While this new passion wasn't obvious to me at first, it wasn't until after taking a film-photography class a few months after purchasing my first DSLR that I realized my love for photography. By taking the class, I was able to develop a much greater understanding of the basic concepts of exposure, composition, film-development, post-production, and even how to give & take constructive criticism. Having such a knowledgeable and passionate instructor didn't hurt either, and I owe a great deal of my knowledge and passion for photography to him. Even just working with friends and seeing how they do things is always a way for me to learn a thing or two.
Over the years, I have been able to grow on that knowledge and passion by always trying to explore, as well as seeing something new every day. I have had the opportunity to see amazing places, meet tons of awesome people, and, above all, capture enough images to last a lifetime, each with their own level of sentimental value.
While undoubtedly a frustrating hobby, photography is still ever-rewarding. There is an indescribable feeling of visualizing an image - the exposure settings, the composition, the editing in post - and being able capture that picture, exactly how you imagined it. A slice of time, captured forever exactly how you want to remember it. Aside from that, seeing your work on prints, canvas, metal, on someone's wall, in someone's house - that's on a level of it's own!
Being able to spend time with friends, as well as some new people, all while bonding over something like photography is always such a eye-opening experience that has continuously pushed my passion even further. Following the works of other famous photographers provides ever-lasting inspiration, and seeing the world through the lens of famous, (and even not-so-famous) photographers, continuously fuels this unexpected passion.
Exploring around White Sands National Park, New Mexico. Photo by Ava Mack (instagram.com/avamariemack)
Banner photo by Mitchell Hollander (https://unsplash.com/@mitchures)