“Why are we taking photos in the first place?” 

In a recent TED Salon, where a number of curated, globally-relevant TED Talks are delivered, Alpha Imaging Collective member Erin Sullivan (@erinoutdoors) aims to get to the bottom of this question. With more and more photos of popular sites appearing online, she explores how our obsession with taking photographs might be impacting our experiences.

Why are we taking photos in the first place? Listen to Alpha Collective member Erin Sullivan (@erinoutdoors) explore this question in her TED Salon video.

“Photography can enhance your experience,” she explains, “if it’s done intentionally. The intention piece is what matters. As a photographer, I’ve really had to check myself on this. When does it help me to have my camera out, and when do I just need to put it away?”

Making it very clear that she isn’t discouraging anyone from taking photos, Sullivan just wants people to feel that it’s OK to put the camera away and save some of the moment just for you.

“Even if thousands of people have been to whatever exact location and taken whatever exact photo, I encourage you to get out and create too. The world needs every voice and perspective, and yours is included. But what I’m trying to show you is that the phone or camera doesn’t have to stay out all the time.”

Watch the full TED Salon with Erin Sullivan here.