"(The camera) sees more than what we can see with the naked eye --
sees things we might not be comfortable seeing."
One of the unique things about tintype photography is that typically only photo is taken and developed. Carla explains that the bright lighting and strobe used can reveal details that might not otherwise be seen. She talks about the vulnerability of being authentically seen. Sitting with -- and honoring -- vulnerability can be uncomfortable. Whether you are the person who is navigating a hard situation, or if you are holding space for someone else, being open to vulnerability is a practice.
ACTIVITY - Practicing Vulnerability
Take one photo of yourself.
Or, ask a friend to take one.
JUST ONE.
No do-overs.
If possible, view the photo on a larger screen, or print it out.
Spend some quiet time reflecting on the image.
Take out a piece of paper for recording your observations. Start by simply observing physical characteristics that you notice. Tip: Imagine you are describing the photo to someone you are speaking to on the phone who can’t see it. (e.g. “My eyes are blue.” “My lips curve up a little on the right.” “My hair is parted on the side” etc.) As you spend more time with the photo, try to push for more details in your observation (e.g. "I notice several fine lines around my eyes." "On the right side of my head I see hairs that stray out of place", etc.)
Now allow yourself to observe the photo in a more personal way.
What do you think about when you look at the image?
Does it remind you of anything -- or anyone other than yourself?
What mood words might you use to describe what you see?
Ask yourself:
- What are most you comfortable seeing when you look at your photo?
- What in the photo (if anything) makes you a little uncomfortable?
- If you were told that image would be on the front page of the paper tomorrow, what would your reaction be?
Take it further...invite a partner to work with you.
- Invite someone else complete this exercise with you.
- Ask them to complete steps 1 through 5 above. Then exchange photos with your partner.
- Complete steps 3-5 with each other's photos.
- When you are both done, take turns sharing what you saw in your partner's photo.
Ask yourself:
- Did you experience any feelings of vulnerability?
- If you asked someone else to partner with you, did you find it harder to honor your own vulnerability, or to honor that of someone else?
- What in this activity might give you a new perspective on being present in a difficult conversation with someone?
