Pictures in the Dark

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I am not a photographer.

One of my hobbies, though, is taking pictures with my iPhone. When the opportunity arises or I see a good chance to get an Instagram photo, I’ll take a picture of just about anything in just about any situation. I’ve gotten fairly good at recognizing when a good time to take a photo pops up. One of the things I’ve noticed about taking the clearest picture…

The best pictures are taken on overcast days.

Contrary to popular belief and what I first thought, really bright and sunny days aren’t the best time.

Why?

Because the sun causes a host of problems with a camera (some of which can be turned into a positive if done correctly).

The best pictures are taken in overcast weather. The truest form of what the photographer is trying to capture is seen in overcast weather.

It’s true with us too.

When things aren’t bright, sunny, and happy go lucky,
our truest character shows through.

When things pop up that darken the world around us,
others see us in our truest forms.

Our character is seen in the times that things aren’t perfect,
not bright,
not clear,
not easy.

It’s times when things are difficult that we get to show what we’re really made of.

Use those times.
Use those times to show the Christ in you rather than the perfect context around you.
Use those times to grow stronger and be used more.

Don’t fear the overcast days,
show out in them…

Let Jesus shine through you during them.

[I read about taking iPhone photos on overcast days a few months ago here.]


Comments

17 responses to “Pictures in the Dark”

  1. Mhikkai Avatar
    Mhikkai

    I think there are a lot of beautiful things in dark and as a photographer, you already knew it.. Thanks for your inspiration..

    1. You’re welcome. Thanks for stopping by!

  2. Great post, JP!

  3. As always…great perspective. I wanna go take photos now (it’s overcast outside)…ha!

    1. Haha. Thanks man!

  4. As someone who is new to the world of photography, I know that all you have said here is true. I love how you’ve made the connection in our spiritual life.

    Thanks so much for sharing this, Jonathan.

    1. Thanks for stopping by!

  5. Michael Reid Avatar
    Michael Reid

    Great post man.

  6. This is probably one of my favorite posts. I love overcast days. It makes us reflective, introspective. Helps us to see life a little more clearly.

    1. Thanks, Cheryl. Really appreciate you stopping by. Keep shinning!

  7. You know Jonathan, this spoke to me in a personal way cause I’m just planning on taking up professional photography for leisure (I know that sounds awkward and hilarious).
    Yes, our lifesong sings best amidst the noise around us. Our light shines best amidst the darkness around us. And we must be prepared at those moments not to shrink back but let Jesus shine through us cause He is enough. Thanks for reminding us! :)

    1. Nah… doesn’t sound too weird. :) Thanks for your kind words… good luck with you professional/leisure photos!

  8. “When things aren’t bright, sunny, and happy go lucky,
    our truest character shows through.

    When things pop up that darken the world around us,
    others see us in our truest forms.”

    Admittedly, that hurt to read. You’re right. Thank you for the reminder.

  9. Great post. I love shooting on foggy days or early morning and late afternoon sun. Bright midday sunshine does bring a host of problems for photos. Love your analogy to life about overcast days.

    1. Thanks Amy! Appreciate you stopping by!

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