As a high school senior in a big city like Seattle, this year is usually all about college apps, growing up, moving on, and rushing to the end. For me, I worry about the end. I worry about time passing, and most of all, I worry about forgetting. Photos allow me to remember, and they give me the ability to look at each moment and scene as something beautiful to savor and hold on to. I want people to consider their life in the moment and the connections around them, instead of being so centered in the media that pushes our large-scale consumerism, micro trends, and the urge to live a life that is fast and fake. These photos represent the small things. Enjoying music, interacting with the people around you, and noticing the small things contrast the moods and habits of usual life. The issue I chose to focus on as my theme is climate change, and more specifically overconsumption, which stems partly from being so consumed in the media and trends. 

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Photo 1: A cheerful vendor listens to music while selling art prints. 

What stands out is the repetition of the background and foreground that is filled with wonderful art that frame a guy who is so immersed in his own world and enjoying the moment with his headphones on. 

Photo 2: Person smiles at a customer who’s buying pretty parcels of valentines day gifts. 

Everything is so warm and red. Every section has more details and handmade goods. In the current day, everyone is so wrapped up in social media and a fake world that passes by so quickly, leading to the increase of consumption, and a lack of awareness for the small moments. One thing I want people to lean into more is the ability to observe the other perspectives that exist. In such a fast paced world, often the main thing we think about is our own perspectives- how people view us, what we’re going to do that day, what we’ll post on instagram, etc. I want to show people a peak into the lives of others, and remind them that these small moments among the strangers that surround us exist. 

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In CCC and this YIF class, having access to a camera and being surrounded by people who are equally as interested in capturing different perspectives draws me more and more into noticing the minute details and moments that exist each day. Seeing everyone else’s creative processes in capturing and editing has been so eye opening and inspirational for me. These photos really lean into the composition and editing categories, as these were photos taken on the go while out on a walk. Finding the perfect place to stand out of the way of the crowd (and sometimes in the crowd) was one of the main thoughts behind these. 

What are routines in your life you take for granted? What are some small moments each day that ground you? Try making a cup of tea and watching the kettle boil instead of scrolling on your phone. Look out the window, study the pictures on the wall, watch the tea leaves stain the water with flavor and warmth and familiarity. Be the now.

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