In the vast universe of philosophy, certain minds stand out as torchbearers of profound ideas, challenging us to contemplate the essence of existence. The philosopher Søren Kierkegaard seamlessly intertwines his thinking with with photography.
Kierkegaard, the Danish philosopher of the 19th century, delved into the complexities of human experience. His notion of the "leap of faith" encourages us to confront the uncertainties of life with a passionate commitment to our chosen paths. And this is useful for photography and film making.
In the realm of photography, this "leap of faith" echoes through the lens, urging photographers to embrace the subjective nature of their craft. Every photograph becomes a subjective interpretation, a leap into the unique perspective of the artist. Kierkegaard's emphasis on individual experience resonates as photographers navigate the intricacies of capturing moments that hold personal significance.
The Aesthetic Moment: Kierkegaard's Influence on Capturing Beauty
Kierkegaard introduced the concept of the "aesthetic" sphere—a realm where individuals engage with the immediate beauty of the world. This idea parallels the photographer's pursuit of the perfect shot, the quest to freeze a moment of captivating beauty in the frame.
In the click of the shutter, photographers mirror Kierkegaard's call to appreciate the immediate aesthetic encounters that surround us. Each photograph becomes a testament to the beauty found in fleeting moments—moments that encapsulate the essence of existence, just as Kierkegaard urged us to embrace the immediate beauty of life.
Kierkegaard's exploration of the temporal and the eternal resonates deeply with the concept of time in photography. As photographs freeze moments in time, they offer a tangible glimpse into the temporal nature of our existence. Yet, within each frame, there's an invitation to contemplate the eternal—a timeless essence encapsulated in the captured moment.
Photography becomes a visual representation of Kierkegaard's philosophical tension between the transient and the enduring. Understanding this could determine whether you go for the monochromatic timeless look or embrace colour...
As photographers, let's view our craft not merely as a visual medium but as a quest to freeze the beauty of the immediate.
Warm regards,
Daniel