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 Tom Bourdon.
Tom Bourdon
When the Shot Isn’t Yours to Take
Some moments in photography aren’t ours to keep. Now, that might sound counterintuitive, but over the years of leading photo tours, I’ve found it too often to be the case.
On a recent trip to Bhutan, our group was granted rare access inside a monastery as monks prepared for a traditional masked dance. In a small, crowded room, they adjusted their incredible costumes, with natural light streaming through ancient wooden windows. It was one of those scenes travel photographers dream about.
But I didn’t go in.
Instead, I waited at the doorway, encouraging the participants to step inside and position themselves where the light was strongest, facing the monks, with the windows behind them. This gave them a better angle and allowed them to engage with the subjects in a quiet, respectful way. That kind of connection always comes through in the final image.
I took a couple of frames from outside, making sure to stay out of their way. But the strongest and most personal photos belonged to those traveling with me.
One of the best parts of guiding photography tours is helping others get the shot. And honestly, that can be just as rewarding as getting one myself.
Tom Bourdon was featured in PHOTOSNACK #541.
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.
Until next time,
Tomasz