Photographer, a term that defines our generation. A generation where the highlights of our life are seen through the eyes social media. Acting as a blessing and a curse, social media is meant to provide a sphere of connectivity, a sphere where moments are to be shared and not used as a means of validation. As an example, whenever we go to a new environment, say a foreign country, we all instinctively become photographers. However, the reason is somewhat muddled. Yes, photography is meant to be a medium of expression, but in a new environment it is used to document evidence. Evidence which is used to show those who follow us on social media how exhilarating our life truly is.
Thus, our generation's mentality can be summed up in a simple expression, "Pics or it didn't happen." Seeming like a harmless phrase, I experienced this undeniable pressure when I, along with Zach Arani, went to China this past summer thanks to the Hefner Initiative, a scholarship that provides teenagers the opportunity to experience the duality (what duality?) of China. Throughout the entire trip, I caught myself wondering what to post on social media. Do I try and be artistic with my camera or just post a simple selfie on the Great Wall of China? Thankfully, I was able to do neither, partially due to China's internet policy. Regardless, being thrown into China's rich culture without having to constantly show people what I was doing was rewarding in its own way.
Below is a sneak peek into my experience of China.
(Editor's Note: The photo's have been resized and compressed.)
