In this series of posts on aspects of perception, we’ve explored how how perception is primary and pre-cognitive (Part 1), embodied and sensual (Part 2), timeless and dynamic (Part 3), as well as relational and reciprocal Part 4. I’ll conclude this series today with Part 5 – perception as inclusive and non-narrative, yet unique.
** Books mentioned have Amazon affiliate links, meaning I make a few cents if you purchase through my link. I only recommend books that I’ve read.
Perception is inclusive.
What does it mean that perception is inclusive? Just that it includes everything in our field of vision, whether we’re consciously aware of them or not. For example, foreground, background, space, periphery, etc. Many of these things we filter out of our cognition. Yet, each plays a part in how we perceive. Arguably, perceptuon also includes information from our other senses. Everything influences where we choose to place our focus. That’s why it’s important to become more aware of these other parts, what Patrick Shen calls “the other half of things.”
Uta Barth is a photographer who specializes in the art of looking at these penumbral spaces – atmosphere, space, background, periphery, nuances, subtleties, etc. You can read more about her here.
Perception is non-narrative.
“Eliminate theme, story, even yourself. Know something as it is without comparing / contrasting it with something else. Re-examine your expectation of what a photograph can be. Be willing to be confused, to re-orient to a new way of seeing.” ~ Uta Barth
Because perception is pre-cognitive (Part 1), it is also non-narrative. In other words, it is what you see, not the story of what you see. There is a sense of equanimity about perception. Everything included plays a part. With perception, there is no story, no judgments, no meaning. It might feel disorienting or confusing. You might not understand what you’re seeing. But, it is what it is.
Read: Seeing is Forgetting (inspired by Robert Irwin)
Perception is unique.
“We will never know what reality looks like through someone else’s eyes, and that’s what makes us unique. This is what makes us special and this is what gives us meaning. Perception is life.” ~ Jacob Maren
Yes, so true. Your perceptions are like no one else’s, even if you’re in the same place with someone else. On the one hand, this can be maddening; on the other hand, it’s pretty exciting too. Perceptions are endless. And, it’s important to realize that what you see, and whatever you want to photograph is worthy and worthy of sharing. Of course, it’s also important to realize with a dose of humility that your perception is not the only one. There are many other ways of seeing.
So ends this series on aspects of perception. I am in the process of creating a workshop that will give participants experiences in noticing their unique perceptions in each of these aspects. It will most likely be offered in the month of October. Stay tuned.