For the next little while, I’m reposting content from my archive that I think is relevant for today. In 2011 I began my exploration of contemplative photography and here’s the first post I wrote about it. What I’d love for you to note most is the excerpt from the movie Smoke included below. This is one I’ve included in many of my courses.

What’s the difference between conventional photography and contemplative photography?

Let’s start by defining contemplation. This is a term often used in religious circles to describe a mystical way of seeing. Maybe a little hard for most of us to understand. In secular terms, contemplation means to “consider with attention.” (Merriam-Webster) The word is often confused with “reflection” which, according means “consideration of some subject matter, idea, or purpose.”

The practices of contemplation and reflection, however, couldn’t be more different.

Brother Paul Quenon, a monk from the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky says that reflection has to do with looking back and remembering, and then reflecting on the meaning of your thoughts. Contemplation has nothing to do with thoughts or looking back. It is about being here now, in the moment, and seeing reality as it is, without judgment or interpretation.

Photography is my contemplative practice.

The monk, Thomas Merton, was known for his contemplative way of being and seeing. He was also a photographer and called contemplation “a long, loving look at the real.” With regards to photography, or any other art for that matter, Merton advises to:

“Stop looking and begin seeing. Looking means you already have something in mind for your eyes to find. But seeing is being open and receptive to what comes to the eye; your vision total and non-targeted.” ~ Song for Nobody

According to the book, The Practice of Contemplative Photography, this practice is about aligning eye, mind, and heart. Seeing the world with fresh eyes. Contemplative photography is more than a form of self-expression. Instead, the photographer identifies with the subject so deeply that he or she is able to express its essence. There is nothing conceptual or interpretive going on. Instead, the image reveals “the unfabricated truth.”

Conventional photography, especially commercial or self-expressive, tends to be conceptual. It’s about an idea the photographer wants to express. He or she purposely looks for subject matter that stands out or is considered beautiful or awe-inspiring or shocking. There’s nothing wrong with this type of photography. It’s what many do and it can be very effective.

Contemplative photography is just a different approach. It’s receiving a picture rather than taking one. Concepts and interpretations can be limiting. The real world is constantly changing and offers unlimited perceptions.

The Movie Smoke

Here’s a video excerpt from the movie “Smoke” with Harvey Keitel. I believe it shows beautifully what it means to live a contemplative life. Keitel plays Auggie Wren, a cigar store owner in New York City. On his way to work every day, he takes a picture of the same scene at the corner of Third Street and Seventh Avenue. His collection now includes more than 4,000 pictures. Wren’s friend (played by William Hurt) doesn’t get it. As he flips through Keitel’s photo album, he says that all the pictures look the same. Keitel responds,

“You’re going too fast. You’re hardly even looking at the pictures. You’ll never get it if you don’t slow down, my friend.”

It’s only when his friend sees his ex-wife in one of the pictures does he finally get it. See the clip here.