When asked about my favorite photos, my answer is always the same: “the next ones.” It’s not that I dismiss the work I’ve done in the past; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. But as a photographer, I’m deeply connected to the present moment. I’m someone who consistently shares what I’m currently shooting or working on—whether it’s polished, imperfect, or somewhere in between. This habit of staying present is something that drives my creativity and keeps my perspective fresh.
However, this strong sense of presence can be overwhelming at times. I find myself with dozens of projects that I’ve already shot, just waiting for that desperate culling and editing attention they deserve. Yet, once I’ve captured a moment, that same urgency to share it with the world seems to dissipate. There’s a strange disconnect between the act of shooting and the act of sharing, a shift in my brain that makes the past feel less pressing.
But I do enjoy looking back. There’s a certain peace in revisiting what I’ve done, a reflective escape from the rat race of present realities. In those moments, I find myself drawn to the work I’ve already created, not with the same urgency as before, but with a calm appreciation. It’s as if those past projects become a quiet space where I can breathe, away from the constant push to create something new.
Staying present is essential in photography. It’s what allows us to see the world as it is, to capture moments as they unfold. But there’s also value in looking back, in taking the time to revisit and reflect on what we’ve done. It’s a way to reconnect with our own creative journey, to see how far we’ve come, and to remind ourselves of the stories we’ve already told.
For me, sharing this process with the world is not just about showcasing my work; it’s about offering a glimpse into the duality of being a photographer—balancing the demands of the present with the quiet reflection of the past. It’s a reminder that while the next photo may be my favorite, the ones that came before it still hold meaning. They are a part of my story, a testament to the moments I’ve experienced and the images I’ve created.
In the end, photography is a dance between now and then, between the moments we capture and the memories we hold onto. Staying present keeps us grounded, but looking back allows us to appreciate the journey. And maybe, just maybe, in sharing these reflections, we find a way to bridge the gap between the two.
I’m going to take a short break from my northern adventures. Next up-Iceland. But first, i have alot more work to do on the content before it is shareable. Stand by.
Click.
Jack
