TED Talks Daily

Does photographing a moment steal the experience from you? | Erin Sullivan

Jan 23, 2020
In this engaging talk, Erin Sullivan, a travel photographer and writer, dives deep into the tension between capturing moments and truly experiencing them. She shares how her intention behind the lens transformed her relationship with nature, especially at breathtaking sites like Mesa Arch. Erin emphasizes that while photography can enhance memories, it can also distract us from the beauty unfolding in front of us. Find out how being more mindful can help you cherish memories without losing the essence of the moment.
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ANECDOTE

Crowds at Mesa Arch

  • Erin Sullivan recounts witnessing crowds at Mesa Arch taking photos at sunrise.
  • This sparked her curiosity about the purpose of photography, especially at popular landmarks.
INSIGHT

Photography as Portraiture

  • For Sullivan, photography is like creating a portrait of a loved one, requiring careful consideration of its message and feeling.
  • Every creative choice matters when communicating through an image, regardless of whether it's shared.
INSIGHT

Intentional Photography

  • Research suggests that taking photos can enhance enjoyment of experiences, but not if the sole intention is sharing.
  • This highlights the importance of intentionality in photography.
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