I am a shameless hussy when it comes to taking pictures of those I love. I am addicted, a bona fide shutterfly. And, of course, I happen to think that the newest addition to our family is my most worthy photographic subject.
As a sacramental theologian, I have studied the nuances of liturgy and sacraments in various religious traditions (whether properly called sacraments or not). I have always been an "incarnational" type of theologian, preferring to emphasize that the divine is found within us and around us. My husband, my son, and my family are the greatest sources of grace in my life. Not that I don't appreciate religious rituals and tradition, it is just that I find God in a smile, a gorgeous display of fall colors, or even in THE LIP.
I'm thinking of taking a course in photography in February of next year; just a one night a week thing on portrait photography. While I am excited to do such and to learn the technicalities of photography, I also fear losing the naivete of seeing the world as a sacrament, just as it is--no thoughts of lighting or aperture, zoom or diffusion, etc.
Ever since I allowed myself to purchase an digital SLR camera (Nikon D70), I have enjoyed seeing the world as a series of beautiful photographs. Often, when I don't have my camera, I think "wow, that would be an awesome picture." I wonder what it is about our want to grab hold of that beauty and memorialize it? Is it the same feeling that I have about Gabe of wanting to drink in every moment and remember it for its sheer beauty? Is it wrong to want to capture such things?
Our relationship to the sacraments in our lives is complex. There is such a fine line between the aesthetic and the idolatrous. I want my photography to remain aesthetic and enjoyable just as I want my relationships to others to remain free and healthy.
So, as I wander through this life, I pray to be true to the sacraments I find before me and all around me and to always recognize them as such.
2 comments:
Beautifully expressed. I can very much relate to your questions and your thoughts.
Capture away! I think it's realy important.
And I am so envious of the coure you will take in Feb. It's so much fun learning new things. Especially something so valuable.
I think you will still see the beauty as it is, even if you learn the technical side of photography.
And sometimes you may even realize the beauty of something only after you caught a photograph of it. A new perspective maybe?
The pictures of Gabe are wonderful. Keep snapping those shots!
The way you think...what you believe...this is why I love you so much. I think your beautiful photography is an extension of your thought processes - which are also very beautiful.
And my, the little elf himself is getting SO BIG!!! What a cutie pie!
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