 Consider CultureA growing number of nature photographers, challenged by destruction of our planet, have been inspired by a culture of slowing down, using cameras mindfully, and caring for the planet as we make our images. With this perspective, many nature photographers aim to create intimate landscapes, subtle beauty, and a sense of peace. Most of us, without thinking, believe the nature images we share are Universal. We rarely question our own narratives, but rather set them as the standard with which we compare everything else. But culture exists within nature photography and the abstract concept "peace" is shaped by our experiences and culture.
During a training I attended with Cornelius, a fellow teacher commented on how she desired a more "peaceful" classroom. He asked her to describe what that classroom looked like. I can’t remember her exact words, but it was something to the effect of ordered, quiet, students on task. Ah, yes, that’s the pinnacle of a well-run classroom, we can surely agree on that, right? Cornelius then asked us to consider that not everyone would define a peaceful classroom in that way. Wait, what!? My brain started scanning my experiences for a day that I felt the most relaxed and I realized that day, for me, involved debate, raised voices, and lots of laughter. On this favorite day, we were experimenting with a short unit on art and emotions. I displayed “Sunny Day,” by Kenyan artist Mary Ogembo.
These adults with life experience in the Congo, Somalia, Kenya, Bhutan, Thailand, and Burma (Myanmar) seemed to be experiencing the symbols in this painting from their own cultural and experiential perspectives. And that was more than ok! No one got angry, no one refused to work with another, no one stormed out of the room. They each shared their view points and we had an opportunity to see the painting through different lenses. Over the years, I've realized we can’t ever truly experience what another is feeling or accurately see the world through another person’s lens, but we can get glimpses into other's perspectives if we keep an open mind and heart. It took me a year or two after this experience to understand that my students weren't the only ones with cultures that influenced their perceptions. From your perspective, which of the images would you describe as peaceful? Why?
To expand your perspective, take a look through someone else's images and consider:
And with that expanded perspective, consider:
For nature photographers who want to help shape a more nurturing culture, it's important we acknowledge that photography can provide expansion to our lives when we refuse to limit ourselves and others. What cultural perspectives influence your life and photography practice?
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