how much do you value Aesthetic?

Jan 15

Okay, confession time: I care about how my tools look and feel.

I know, I know. We’re told "real" photographers don't care about aesthetics, only about megapixels and lens sharpness. It's about the output, not the tool. And yes, ultimately, it is about the output. But for me, and maybe for you too, the way my equipment looks and feels is a critical part of the creative process.

It's Not Just Superficial

This isn't about vanity. It's about invitation.

Think about it: Do you want to pick up a camera that feels like a cold, generic piece of plastic? Or one that feels like an extension of your hand, a beautifully crafted object that invites you to create?

For me, the tactile experience of a camera, the satisfying click of a dial, the smooth operation of a lens ring, the way it sits in my hand these aren't just details. They're a huge part of why I want to pick it up in the first place. My Leica isn't just a light-capturing device; it's a piece of kinetic sculpture that makes the act of photography a pleasure.

The Joy of Use

When a tool looks and feels good, it doesn’t just perform a function; it inspires. It sparks joy. It makes you want to interact with it. That "joy of use" translates directly into more time spent shooting, more exploration, and ultimately, better photographs.

It's similar to how a writer might prefer a specific type of pen, or an artist a certain brush. The tool becomes part of the ritual, part of the flow state where ideas happen.

Permission to Appreciate

In a world obsessed with judging "gear acquisition syndrome," it’s easy to feel guilty about appreciating the beauty of your tools. But I'm here to say: It's okay. This is not about acquiring more and more gear or an obsession with the gear. This is about carefully selecting and appreciating the gear that you have so it inspires you to create more.

If the aesthetic of your camera, the texture of your bag makes you feel more connected to your craft, then it's not a distraction. It's a fundamental part of your inspiration.

Your camera isn’t just a device; it’s your companion in the hunt for light and emotion. And if that companion looks and feels good to you, then you're more likely to take it everywhere and use it often. Don't let anyone tell you that paying attention to aesthetics is superficial. For some of us, it's essential.