ON INTENTION IN PHOTOGRAPHY

ON INTENTION

Intention matters in everything we do. In Islam, it is called nawayto(niat). It is the same when we go out to take photos. If we don’t know where we want to go, any road will take us there.

During one photowalk in KL, I set out to take photos with geometrical patterns. As soon I arrived at MRT Pasar Seni, immediately I noticed one standing and staring at me. My intention made me see things that I normally ignore. The intention guided my mind and my eyes to my object of desire. It is a case of what I am looking for comes to me on its own.

Let me share this short note to shed more light on this subject matter.

Knowing your intention before taking photos is crucial because it guides every aspect of your process and ensures your work is meaningful and impactful. Here’s why it matters:

1. Defines Your Vision

• Having a clear purpose helps you understand what story you want to tell and why it’s important. This shapes the narrative and the way you approach your subjects.

2. Adds Depth to Your Work

• Intentional photography goes beyond aesthetics. It ensures your images have emotional or cultural significance, making them resonate more with viewers.

3. Improves Focus and Efficiency

• When you know your goal, you can focus on capturing what aligns with your vision, reducing distractions and unnecessary shots.

4. Strengthens Your Connection to the Subject

• Understanding why you’re photographing something fosters empathy and respect, allowing you to capture more authentic and compelling moments.

5. Guides Your Creative Decisions

• Your intention influences choices like composition, lighting, and color. For example, documenting entrepreneurship might lead you to emphasize workspaces, tools, or expressions of determination.

6. Helps Communicate Your Message

• Photos with a clear intention are easier for viewers to interpret and connect with, ensuring your story comes across effectively.

7. Builds Consistency in Your Portfolio

• A strong sense of purpose helps you develop a cohesive body of work, establishing your unique voice and style as a photographer.

Before you shoot, ask yourself questions like:

• What story am I trying to tell?

• Who is my audience, and what do I want them to feel or understand?

• Why is this subject meaningful to me?

Clarity in your intention ensures that your photos have lasting impact.