Shots with Buddha

So the other night I decided to try something different.  After almost seven years abroad I’ve been spoiled by the exotic and photogenic sights of the world so when I returned to the US 2 months ago I realized that I would have to work harder to get a picture that people would want to look at.  I’ve experimented with this and that and you’ve (hopefully) seen my work, from Winter’s Color to Winter’s Warmth and a bunch of black and white shots.  Last night I decided to experiment with the statue of Buddha that I brought back from Thailand.  After mixing a drink from the stock I recently received from a product shoot I got down to business.

Admittedly he wasn’t a very talkative or energetic subject so I had to work hard to find intriguing facets that I could bring out through my lens.  In his smile (see below) I could see that he kept a thousand secrets hidden behind that serene grin.

There was no way I was going to give up and so persist I did.  Eventually over a series of many shots one of those truths made itself evident.

I took a moment to sit back and think about that.  Then as I rose and moved forward to find my next shot I stumbled upon something else.  As I took this picture I could feel his eyes opening, boring into me through the ages of time, trying to teach me something.  Then I blinked and the image of his lively eyes was gone.

There was one last lesson I learned in the time I spent with Buddha.  It was as I stood up to stretch my shoulders which had cramped in my efforts to find that perfect shot.  I had a good laugh once I realized what it was.

You’ll probably notice that I didn’t say what I realized during this photo shoot.  That was for a couple of reasons but mainly because I want you to look at these photographs and create your own lessons.  I am a firm believe that words can never truly convey true meaning, perhaps that’s why I’m a photographer.  If I were to explain it would be just words to you and nothing would be learned.  Some might call it a cop out…meh…it’s my blog.

After it all I needed a break.  Philosophy, photography, and a bit of alcohol can really take it out of you.  Apparently Buddha also needed a break.  Who can blame him?

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