In case you guys haven't caught on, I am a big picture person. I bought myself a fancy DSLR camera. I use my iphone for photos of anything and everything. From selfies, to food, to beautiful places I have been. Pictures make me happy. Pictures help me remember where I've been, what I've done, and who I was with...or at least I think they do?
Yesterday on the way home from work, I was listening to NPR and they had a piece on taking photographs and how it effects our memory. Long story short, there was an experiment done where people were asked to go to an art exhibit. Some people were told to only look at the art, where others were told to take photos of the art. After all they were done, the participants were given a quiz and asked to describe the art work they saw. Naturally, the ones that only snapped photos did not remember nearly as much detail as those who only looked at the artwork.
Guys, this is my fear with technology in general. As much as I love it, I am afraid that sometimes it takes away from my experiences. Am I took focused on getting a good photo for instagram that I forget to take in everything around me? I don't want to be that person who cannot remember what I did years from now, because I was too busy on my iphone trying to document it so I don't forget later.
There is a silver lining though - in the article they talked about how they added a third group to the art patrons. This group was asked to take more specific photos of details within the pieces of art. When the people had to focus more and capture up close and detailed photos it helped them remember more of what they saw.
I guess my takeaway from the interview and technology in general is. Yes, photography and technology is a beautiful thing and can help us recall events and places and things we have done...but be mindful when you're taking photos. Make sure you enjoy the present. Cherish the details and the experience you're having in the moment, so you have better memories when you go look back on the pictures later !
<3 BB
ps. listen to the piece here, if you missed the link above.
