I Want to Capture You

I bought my first DSLR camera right before I left Taiwan. An acquaintance was selling his old Canon Rebel T3i and three lenses for a steal and I had been waiting for a moment like this to snatch up a good deal on these ridiculously expensive machines.

I’ve always really liked photography. But what I am realizing now is that what I absolutely love is the act of capturing and preserving. We all have letters, trinkets, and souvenirs that we hold onto because of its captured value. The memory of when we received it, the writer of the words, or the location of where it was found are what make these items special. Similarly, when I take photos with my professional camera, the act of procuring these indescribable moments always leaves me feeling euphoric.

Most of all, I love when I am able to capture you. Your moment, your observations, your ruminations, your complexities. When I am able to photograph you in the intimacy of your experience, I feel that I am somehow actualizing the permanence of your individuality. This is why I almost primarily use my 50 mm portrait lens.

Some of you don’t like when your picture is taken. Especially when the photo ends up being basically just your face. But I want you to know that when I take a photo of you, it is one of my ways of saying you matter. You are worth remembering. That these experiences are remarkable simply because you exist.

You can view more of my photos by following me on Instagram: @pdelvec.