Big Picture

Wes Kriesel
Aug 9, 2017 · 2 min read

We raced up the mountain, chasing the sunset. Above us, straggling clouds turned pink, then orange as the sun dipped closer and closer to the horizon. Just as we pulled into a parking space at Minaret Vista, the sun’s brilliance disappeared below the horizon and the landscape around us shifted from warm oranges to cooler blue hues. I hurried to the trunk of the car and grabbed a small tripod I had packed, and attached my iPhone to the clip atop the tripod. I made my way to the ledge overlooking the valley and search for the most dramatic or colorful part of the horizon. I framed and took several shots using both the iPhone camera and then using the camera from within the Lightroom mobile app. I marveled at the view and got some decent shots, making do with the available light, before it got too cold and I had to get back in the car.

We had headed up the mountain as an afterthought, after dinner. However, the big picture was already set. Every morning, I write affirmations about my work as a photographer. Because of those affirmations, I had packed a gear bag that included a smartphone clamp and a small tripod. Earlier than that, I had made sure I had good quality equipment — the clamp and tripod — to serve me when the opportunity came. Now, while it’s true that I was ten minutes late for the sunset, it’s also true that I was able to get some pictures of the the big amazing view at Minaret Vista, in part because of the proper equipment to hold the camera stable which, given the low light conditions, was critical.

My point in relating this story is that I am a photographer. I own that identity. I travel prepared as a photographer, knowing that I may have opportunities to practice my art. My big picture is that I am an artist, practicing art through photography. I don’t get paid for photography — right now anyway — or if I do, it’s the occasional freelance gig here and there. I keep my big picture in view by being ready to practice my art wherever I am, whenever I can.

Knowing your big picture — not your job or your something you get paid for — and being open to the opportunities each day presents for you to embrace and enjoy that big picture is a path to joy.

Troops and Tribes

Improve the Future

Wes Kriesel

Written by

Innovating in Fullerton & beyond. Photographer. Runner & fundraiser for clean water with Team World Vision.

Troops and Tribes

Improve the Future

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