-Awakening-
Part 1 of 3 in my “Self Discovery” series that revolves around how I’ve grown to be the photographer that I am today.
"It is possible to experience an awakening in this life through realising just how precious each moment in time truly is."
In the last year after returning home to New Zealand from the United States, I realised that nothing brings me more joy than being out in nature and capturing the kind of beauty that words can’t adequately describe. My most recent road trip around the South Island was a defining moment in my photography career as I pushed my creative boundaries further.
This image was taken from a magical sunrise moment in New Zealand, in an area of the country that often sees a lot of rain and clouds. This trip was my first chance to explore after being in lockdown for over 4 months. The forecast for the west coast wasn’t looking good but I took a risk and drove 5 hours to get to the location knowing there was a chance there wouldn’t be a sunrise at all. On this particular morning, I felt overwhelmed with the show the sky put on in front of me. Lenticular clouds, low mist on the lake, and a spectacular view of the iconic Mount Cook and Mount Tasman piercing the skyline. Sunrises like this make me believe in the magic of everyday life. There's beauty all around us if we choose to see our surroundings with open eyes.
Here I was sitting in silence, every problem and every doubt disappearing as the beauty around me helped calm the chaos in my mind. This was such a sweet feeling after being confined in the city of Auckland for so long. To be out on the road with no plans and a camera in my hands made me feel in tune with myself again.
I knew the moment of awakening began when I chose to embrace all that I am and that every single moment is precious. Now is the time to chase your dreams and believe in yourself.
