Advice From Mary Oliver

Mary Oliver’s quote, “Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it,” is a profound mantra for photographers. Here’s how each part can guide their artistic journey:

1. Pay Attention: Photographers must be keenly aware of their surroundings. This involves observing details that often go unnoticed—the play of light, the patterns in nature, or the emotions in human interactions. Being present and attentive, photographers can discover unique perspectives and subjects that evoke deeper narratives.

2. Be Astonished: This encourages photographers to embrace wonder and curiosity. Whether it’s the beauty of a sunset, the intricacies of a flower, or the spontaneity of street scenes, finding joy and surprise in everyday moments can inspire creativity. This astonishment fuels their passion and enables them to convey a sense of magic through their images.

3. Tell About It: Finally, sharing the captured moments is essential. Photographers tell stories through images, conveying emotions, experiences, and insights. This storytelling aspect can profoundly connect viewers to the world, inviting them to see through the photographer's eyes and fostering a deeper appreciation for life.

By integrating these principles, photographers can enrich their craft, creating work that captures beauty and evokes emotion and reflection in others.