Study the works of the greatest photographers, like Henri Cartier-Bresson and André Kertész. Try to travel to many parts of the world and understand what a diverse world we live in. — Hiroji Kubota
When we travel it makes us realize how limited our minds are from where we live! The culture, the language, architecture, food, politics and religion.
Travel exposes us to history and the mindset of those whom we’ve studied from our teaching. What most Americans forget is that the United States is still pretty much a young country compared to the rest of world.
Staying in our own little world without venturing beyond the town’s borders gives people a sense of superiority. Comfort maybe? Now there is nothing wrong with living in a small town or village. We’ve met wonderful people throughout our travels. Speaking with them we find out that everyone where they live goes to the same Church. They dress the same, talk the same, have the same ideas and thought. If a stranger passed through they can spot them in a heartbeat.
Those that venture out to explore have told us that they’ve never been out of there hometown before. Different accents, different mindsets, different religious beliefs. I would take a guess and define this as culture shock. When we are approached and they’ve figured out that we come from New York. Usually the first question is asked with wide eyes, “Do you go on the subway”?
We take comfort in the little things that we become accustomed to. We build a box surrounding us to make us feel safe. We go to the same stores, the same restaurants and walk the same streets every day.
In Photography we call this “The Comfort Zone”! You step outside this little world and it hits you smack upside the head! Similar maybe to Stage Fright? Or possibly the reverse of Claustrophobia, if there is such a thing. Trying something new, eating something you’ve never had before. Listening to music you normally ignore. Trying something different! Getting out of your Comfort Zone might inspire you.
Travel is Not for everyone. But it’s the little things that can broaden your mind.
Have a Great Weekend everyone!
Not4wood's Photography Blog 