The ability to capture the beauty around us, the towering trees, the vast blue skies, serene rivers, refined boats, and the breathtaking hues of sunrises and sunsets is truly a gift. As life unfolds and takes us to different places, we experience moments of change. The once bustling home, filled with the sounds of laughter, the chaos of daily routines, and the joy of raising children, eventually grows quieter. An empty nest can leave behind a longing for the noise, the mess, and even the long hours spent in the kitchen, things we never thought we’d miss.
For me, the love of photography was born out of capturing moments of my children’s lives, their joy, their laughter, their every quirky expression, and even their tears. Each photograph was a time capsule, allowing me to relive those moments again and again. However, life’s hectic pace often pushed this passion aside, leaving it dormant for years.
Then one day, with my nest empty and my children grown, I sought something to fill the void. I rediscovered photography. Picking up my camera again reignited a spark within me. Long walks through my beautiful neighborhood became an adventure, with every bird, tree, river, and cloud offering an invitation to capture their beauty. Whether it was the delicate drop of water perched on a leaf after the rain or the vibrant colors of a sunset, each scene revealed a world I hadn’t fully appreciated before.
My camera became my lens to a new perspective. Through its viewfinder, I began to notice the beauty of the world, the small, often-overlooked details that make life so extraordinary. While modern smartphones are undeniably capable of taking stunning photographs, there is something profoundly unique about using a camera. The process of understanding light, experimenting with different lenses, and exploring various styles of photography opened doors to creativity I never imagined.
As I dug deeper in photography it felt like returning to school, learning, practicing, and refining my skills every day. It was both challenging and deeply rewarding. My camera quickly became my constant companion on walks through town, by the sea, and during holidays. It became more than a tool; it became a trusted friend, my partner in exploring the world.
Photography has the remarkable power to freeze moments in time and preserve places, emotions, and stories. For me, it has become a form of therapy, combining the calming effects of nature with the fulfillment of creativity. Each shot is a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, waiting to be noticed and cherished.
Photography has not only filled the quiet spaces in my life as I approached the golden age, It has given me a renewed sense of purpose and joy. It’s a way to connect with the world, each click of the shutter is a celebration of life’s fleeting wonders, a way to hold on to memories and create something meaningful.
Photography has the power to freeze moments, time and place. There is always something extraordinary waiting to be discovered. And so, I carry my camera with me, ready to capture the next moment, knowing that every frame is another chapter in this beautiful journey of life.
Raidah Hatem Hatoum
