As a filmmaker and camera enthusiast, my biggest debate before coming to India was whether or not to bring my camera. The potential of capturing beautiful landscapes, cityscapes and people mixed with the worry of damaging equipment and being the “touristy photographer” of the trip. I feared the idea that I would limit my experience of India to the viewfinder of my camera and forget to look up to see eye to eye with the world around me.
Now over 5 weeks into the trip, while I decided to leave my camera behind, I’ve realised there is still one lens I bought with me – my Kiwi lens I used to see India through – and I’m so glad that it is no longer the small lens I see through.
There have been countless moments across this trip so far that the natural light of India has shone beautifully. Every moment I’ve stood knowing how beautiful it would look on camera. The beautiful rays of light seeping through the forests of Rishikesh, to the warm hues of a beautiful sunset over the Udaipur lakes, or the cracks of light illuminating a glimpse of life through the alleyways of Dharavi.
There have been moments of pure emotion that I’ve wished to capture to share with many others so they could experience it. The joy radiating through smiles at the school, the gratitude and life-changing experience of organisations like Jaipur Foot, or the connection of just a simple wave through the bus window.
While I’ve wished I could have captured moments like these through the lens of my camera, they have still been captured, imprinted on my heart and will one day be shared as my life becomes moulded by the experience of India. Not too dissimilar to the moment of capturing a photo, the experiences I’ve seen will be told, shared, expressed and interpreted through many different perspectives, shaping and sharing the light of India.
The beauty of India radiates in every way. From the heartfelt welcomes to the stunning landscapes and scenery, travelling around India has far surpassed what I could have imagined. So in the debate of whether or not to bring my camera, I’ve realised that my lens has been widened and my heart has captured more than my camera ever could have.
Another school visit!/
Visiting the NZ High Commission