011: Resetting My Focus: Mastering the Craft of Photography

There’s a rhythm to creativity, one that demands a quiet mind and an open heart. Lately, I’ve realized how easy it is to fall out of step, to let the noise of the world drown out the art itself.

As a photographer, my work is rooted in seeing. Not just looking, but seeing, truly noticing the beauty in what others might overlook. It’s a gift, a blessing, to have an eye that interprets the world in its own language. But sometimes, that gift gets tangled in distractions, chasing the wrong goals, worrying about the opinions of others, or measuring progress by anything other than the work itself.

This is my reset.

It’s a chance to clear the clutter and return to the essence of photography. To find joy in the way light wraps around a face, the way texture lives in the details, and the way shadows tell their own quiet stories. It’s about reconnecting with the craft, the lines, tones, and emotions that make an image sing.

For me, this reset is also about honoring the responsibility that comes with being a Black photographer. To create images is to document, to preserve, and to push the art form forward. There’s a weight to that, one that requires intention and respect for the moment unfolding in front of the lens. It’s not just about the photographs, it’s about the process, the patience, and the purpose.

In this season of clarity, I’m letting go of anything that doesn’t serve the work. Opportunities that are for me will find me, and the ones that aren’t will fade as they should. My only goal is to create, to immerse myself in the process, and to trust that the results will follow.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about learning to listen to the image, to the story it wants to tell, and allowing myself to be a vessel for it. As a creative, there’s no greater blessing than to see the world differently and to share that vision with others.

Photography is a gift, and mastering it is my purpose. Not for applause, not for validation, but for the sheer love of the craft. This is my opportunity to reset, to create freely, and to carry the torch forward in a way that honors those who came before me while inspiring those who come next.

This is the work.

-Stan

010: Is My Photography Style Changing?

Is My Photography Style Changing?

Lately, I’ve been asking myself a big question: Where am I going with my photography? For years, I’ve been documenting life in Atlanta through what most people would call traditional street photography. My Leica M5 and a 28mm lens have been my go-to setup. It’s a classic combo that has helped me create some of my favorite images. But now I’m wondering, is this even me? Or has this just become a lane I stayed in because it’s familiar?

Street photography, the way I’ve been doing it, is fast. It’s about catching moments in real time, quick, and in your face. And while I still love it, lately I’ve felt this pull toward something slower. What if my photography leaned more into storytelling and connection? What if I let moments come to me instead of chasing them, focusing more on timing and intention? Honestly, I’m not sure yet, but I’m trying to figure it out.

Through all this reflection, my Leica M5 has been right there with me. I love that camera. The process, the feel, the way it makes me slow down, it’s all intentional. But recently, I’ve been having some issues.

When I develop my rolls, I’ve noticed some frames are severely underexposed. On others, the right side of the frame is darker than the rest. It’s not every frame, but it’s happening enough for me to know something’s off. I dropped the bottom plate at one point. It locks, but it’s loose, and I can’t help but wonder if that’s the issue.

Here’s the thing, I can’t get it CLA’d right now, and I don’t even know where I’d send it. To be real, I’m not even sure if it’s worth it. If I’m going to put that kind of money into it, maybe I should just save for a newer Leica.

In the meantime, I’ve been using my Canon EOS-1V more, and I’ve been enjoying it. It’s a different vibe. It’s not as small or quiet as the M5, but there’s something about it that feels fresh. The autofocus, the speed, the versatility, it all fits where my head is at right now.

I’m starting to think this change in cameras might also reflect a change in my style. Do I want to stay in the traditional street photography lane, working fast with the 28mm? Or is it time to slow down and lean into something else? Something that’s more about connection and storytelling, less about the hustle of the streets?

What’s Next?

I don’t have all the answers yet, but I’m open to figuring it out. Right now, I’m letting myself explore. Maybe that means slowing down. Maybe it means pivoting and trying something new. Either way, I’m not letting the process stress me.

If you’ve ever questioned your direction as an artist, or had a camera issue that made you rethink your process, let me know. I’d love to hear how you worked through it.

I’ll keep y’all updated as I sort this out. I’ll also share some images showing what’s going on with the M5 so you can see the issues for yourself.

Stay tuned.