Photography as an Expression of Self

Photography is a deeply personal act. I see it as an artistic expression of the photographer’s inner world. That’s why it is essential to stay in touch with our feelings and thoughts, so that the compositions, messages, and stories we capture truly reflect who we are.

If you’re new to photography, this might sound strange — but try going out alone one day. Focus only on what’s in front of you and allow yourself to let go. At first, you might feel awkward, as if everyone is watching you. It will be hard to concentrate, and you’ll likely be more aware of your surroundings than of yourself. But then, at some point, your mind will “click”. You’ll begin to notice light differently, understand where lines lead, see how colours blend, and start thinking from the inside out. That’s when you’ll truly begin to take photographs. Before that, you were simply practising with a camera.

Every photographer has their own approach. Some focus on technique, others on storytelling. I approach photography through emotion — inspired by the stories I live, and those I discover each day. For me, photography is not just about capturing what I see, but about understanding myself through it. Without that self-awareness, how could I hope to tell meaningful stories? This process of self-discovery makes us better photographers. It allows us to see the world more clearly — to breathe photography before even raising the camera to our eye. Photography should not be mechanical, nor merely a technical pursuit. It must be a means of expressing emotion and meaning. Without a deep connection to our inner world, everything becomes more complicated.

How do you become a better photographer? By knowing yourself better. By analysing your desires, strengths, and weaknesses. By walking without a camera, observing everything, studying the rhythm of life. By imagining and feeling before shooting. Each day, I gain a clearer sense of the photographer I am — and, more importantly, the photographer I don’t want to be. Everything starts and ends with self-awareness. Photography is our interpretation of life, and we have a responsibility to go beyond the ordinary. I don’t want to take the same photographs as everyone else. I want to be better, different — and more than what I see every day.

On my journey, I’ve been influenced by photographers such as Alex Webb, Steve McCurry, Cristina García Rodero, and Harry Gruyaert. Their ability to capture light, colour, and human stories has shaped my own approach to street photography. Their work continues to inspire me to push my creative vision forward.