Sunday Edition: Kyle McDougall

PHOTOSNACK #370

Every Sunday, I contact photographers previously featured on PHOTOSNACK and ask them to send me their spontaneous thoughts, observations, reflections, or advice.

Today, I am sharing the message I received from Kyle McDougall.

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Kyle McDougall

As I near the twenty-year mark of my photography career, I’ve come to understand the importance of the experience more than ever. I certainly have goals I want to achieve and projects I hope to complete, but a big part of the reward nowadays is the enjoyment that comes from the process—or simply just how fun it is to get out with a camera and explore. It can be the people I meet, the places I visit, or even the time alone in the environment.

I remind myself of that often, especially nowadays, when metrics and performance are constantly attached to our work online. It can be easy to become distracted, discouraged, and off-track or feel like you must continually grow or achieve.

Photography encourages me to interact with and view the world in a way I otherwise wouldn’t. I find that pretty incredible, and it would be a shame to take it for granted, something that I’ve done many times before, as I focus purely on the final result.

That’s not to say that the other things don’t matter, especially the images. What we’re after will be different for all of us. I just think it’s good to step back periodically, reflect on why you make photographs, and remember that it can be as complex or as simple as you want it to be. If the experience is a big reason you do it, well, there’s no reason that can’t be enough. Make sure you embrace it.

Kyle McDougall was featured in PHOTOSNACK #303.

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Sunday Editions connect you with photographers whose work you previously explored through PHOTOSNACK.

I want to reveal some authentic parts of the people behind the cameras.

I don't ask them any specific questions. I ask them to share whatever comes to mind when they think about YOU, the newsletter readers.

It makes their responses genuine and personal.

I hope you enjoyed today's Sunday Edition.

Until next time,
Tomasz