It’s not content
The Photography show 2025 | THE IMPORTANCE OF A PHOTOGRAPHY HOME
The dust is finally settling after an incredibly rewarding experience of delivering four engaging talks across the four days of the photography show in 2025. This year's event was hosted at the ExCel London venue, which initially left many attendees feeling uncertain and somewhat skeptical about its potential. However, even amidst some lingering apprehension and the challenges of extensive traveling, I can confidently say it was a success upon reflection. Yet, it wasn’t solely due to the show itself that made this experience memorable…
The overwhelming success of the event was largely attributed to the wonderful meeting of both new and familiar faces, creating an atmosphere that encouraged engagement and connection. It provided an incredible opportunity to converse with inspirational photographers, truly making participants feel like they were part of something extraordinary. This sense of camaraderie was particularly evident through the NiSi team, who made everyone feel included, not just as representatives of a brand, but as a close-knit band of friends—friends who possess immense talent and creativity that is off the charts! Despite encountering a bit of imposter syndrome, I had to remind myself to have faith in my presence there, a validation of my own photographic merit. Yet, the experience encompassed so much more than this singular feeling. Over the years, I have come to understand that photography is not merely a craft; it serves as a powerful conduit for bringing people together. Additionally, we must not overlook that photography is a vital record of what we see and the unique ways we perceive the world around us. My talks are centered around this very idea, particularly emphasising the importance of having a personal space that you can call your photography home. This space may not be far from your house or family, allowing you to step out, embrace the environment, and engage with whatever weather presents itself. This connection is key to improvement and can uplift you each day, instilling a sense of well-being and providing a rewarding experience when you create something from nothing. I have a special tree that I visit; in fact, I actually have a couple of trees that are no more than a mile and a half away from my home. Those walks are not just physical journeys; they clear the mind and enable me to see beyond the ordinary vistas, training me to be more creative and to appreciate the beauty that surrounds me. It’s not merely content we are creating; rather, we are actively fostering genuine connections. Creative connections provide a positive perspective, whether that be on a commercial level or within our own community and among the people we encounter. When the term CONTENT is used, it often feels like it has transformed into just another job, a tedious endeavor to produce something solely for someone else's benefit. My Photography serves primarily as a personal expression, meant for me first; then, hopefully, it resonates with others when they see it, allowing them to connect with the emotions captured within. It goes beyond brands and the creation of something devoid of soul; one day, I believe all these brands might come to understand that people crave a sense of connection, a feeling of being understood—not belonging to a single tribe or being isolated without prejudice but embracing inclusivity towards everyone, regardless of whether they are male, female, or even a giraffe. I digress, but you certainly grasp the essence of what I’m conveying. The ultimate aim is to eliminate the stress associated with creation, allowing yourself the freedom to explore artistic expression, enjoy the process, and cultivate your very own community of fellow creatives. For years now, I have been devoted to practicing this philosophy, not for the sake of achieving specific goals or engaging in superficial networking, but to naturally attract and gravitate towards like-minded individuals and, in doing so, discover true fulfillment.
All of the above was true regarding this year’s Photography Show, and I genuinely can’t wait for the thrilling experience that next year at Birmingham will bring. Being in London offered a delightful bonus: I had the opportunity to explore this remarkable city and visit numerous places I have never had the chance to discover before. I have an abundance of images and a video that will follow soon. This video will serve as a vibrant whirlwind of what I saw and experienced at the show, and I am looking forward to the editing process. Stay tuned for updates over the next couple of weeks. My love for street photography and the joy of meeting random people continues to grow each time I venture out, and London was no exception to this. Below, you will find three captivating shots I took while at the Tate Modern. These images were captured on the train back home, created straight from the GRIII, and edited in Snapseed. It never ceases to amaze me how one can achieve such stunning results within mere minutes of taking the images.
I will finish on a high, a positive outlook to my future in photography and finally realising I am a communicator, ambitious to make this thing we love my full time endeavour. From podcasts, youtube, workshops and talking to you about my photographic journey, which is always a privilege. A huge thanks to my friends at NiSi and to everyone I spoke to at the photography show!
Thank you for taking the time to have a look and all your support! Stay steady and create photography your way.
SITHEE!
