Harsh Prairie

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Canada | Friday, October 14, 2011 | 5 photos

In 2007, after university, I decided to go backpacking for a year. I already considered myself adventurous and was interested in photography, but that year solidified a few things. On a backpackers’ budget, I was limited to disposable cameras. Focusing on composition only helped me visualize and use all the components of a frame. Running a blog about that year taught me to think about what each picture communicates because I only had 36 exposures and not a lot of money for film and because I didn’t want to spend my time in front of a computer, but rather exploring. It also taught me to appreciate and explore my own backyard, which had seemed boring before I opened my eyes and shutter.

The final thing it taught me was that I wanted more control over the other elements of my image. As soon as I got home I saved up and got a camera that would give me more of the freedom I was seeking. I have since dedicated myself to learning the art and science of image making, though I am not afraid to admit I have a lot more to learn. During this process I have found that image making can take on a deeper purpose. For example, I have replaced a spear gun with a camera. Not only does it satisfy the hunter “instinct” it is much more challenging and much better for the animals. I don’t kill anything anymore (and have become vegetarian) and want to show the world the beauty of our universe. I have seen firsthand the effect a picture can have on a person. I have changed someone’s opinion from fear to fascination. To me, that is the best feeling in the world and I never want it to end.