Have we ever experienced pictures that turn out absolutely glorious when we simply pressed the shutter without any expectation or thinking? Have we ever been blown away by the deep beauty we see in ourselves when we were not intentionally posing to be photographed?
Working in the image industry, I have frequently experienced this. There are many moments when I simply felt impulsed to press the shutter of a camera without even seeing exactly what was in my viewfinder. Something was calling me to simply receive what was being offered. When I looked at these pictures, my heart skipped a beat, not only because the glory was physically visible, but also because the harmony captured was deeply palpable.
Working with my phone camera this way for many years, I have come to realise that pictures call out to be received. Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.
This is the only way I feel true pictures are created – to express what is Truth.
A true image is formulated only when everything aligns at one single moment, and after that moment, something else is already formulating. No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.
By contrast, in the image industry we are constantly trying to re-create images – we regurgitate images and seek a perfection based on images. However, when we hold onto any images, this act is already not aligned to the natural movement that our bodies feel, which is simply to receive what is being presented in that moment. For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits. But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.
Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.
I have observed that the way to work with images is to be image-free within ourselves; not by controlling our thoughts that having images is bad, but by the choices we make every day to free ourselves from the big daddy of images, the ideals and beliefs we have accepted in life.
If we prepare ourselves every day by connecting to ourselves and being true, a freedom and truth will be expressed, simply by receiving the truth that comes through us. As everything is complete once it is expressed, there is no attachment to any image we capture, portray and/or share. This then leaves us free to express the next Divine image that is already coming.
If we are honest, we can all feel Truth, which is one and the same for all. This realisation in relation to working in the image industry is also a truth for any industry and life in general because it is only when our preconceived attachments to what we are looking for subside that we get to truly express as ourselves.
By Adele Leung, Fashion Stylist, writer, photographer, model, presenter, Hong Kong
Further Reading:
Truth
Having my Photo Taken – Seeing the Real Me
What does it Mean – ‘Holding Onto’?
The Truth about Serge Benhayon 
“A true image is formulated only when everything aligns at one single moment, and after that moment, something else is already formulating.” I find the pictures I take on my phone in my day to day movements are appreciations of the beauty and honesty around me and there is always something to learn in what is shared too. We live in moments and what we see around us is a constant reflection of what is truly going on if we observe and connect from honesty.
There are many times when I don’t like the look of myself in a photo and will delete it quickly. We can be so critical of ourselves, so Ive started myself on a selfie program, where I take a picture every week or so, and don’t delete it. Its interesting to look back on them and observe how I feel about each one, especially if there any expectations rather than simple acceptance.
“Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.” I find the most divine moments are found in the everyday, when we are connected and at one with our bodies. When we move from this quality I find the seemingly humdrum days become magical because we have aligned to the magic and reflection of the divine in all and the most amazing conversations or meetings take place, you see such honesty and beauty in nature and the support comes at us in all angles because we have surrendered to the rhythm of our natural connection and that power is absolute.
Not being attached to an image is harder than I had realised! What you share here is really precious though because it reminds us all of the magic that is offered in every moment, no expectation, simply just receiving the image that is there on offer in that moment.
We are so caught up in pictures, of what we want the world to look like, our role we play in the picture and how we need to live also. What matters is how we connect with ourselves and then to others, it can be a challenge sometimes, especially when we want others to be certain way so that we can feel less tension. But if that arises, it is key to come back to ones connection with self.
‘..it is only when our preconceived attachments to what we are looking for subside that we get to truly express as ourselves.’
Brilliantly expressed, we are all that we choose to be, so it is the most true to let go of anything you have chosen to be not who you actually are… And choose what you actually are.
Great sharing Adele on how images control us and making the choice to let them go allow us to express ourselves in a more true way.
I love what you have so simply and powerfully expressed here Adele; our responsibility is just that, to lovingly prepare ourselves daily;
“If we prepare ourselves every day by connecting to ourselves and being true, a freedom and truth will be expressed, simply by receiving the truth that comes through us”
To be open to receive life rather than cast our gaze out allows for an undistorted, unfiltered honesty to arise as to the whole before us that we oft deny and are wholly blind to by our held pictures and perceptions which filter life and create it in the way we want it to be.
When recording in studios, Jenny would always say to the engineer to be ready for the ‘first take’ of my singing, and so many times this was the one… just letting it come.
Wise advice that we need let go of all images and preconceived notions and expectations, results and perceptions and remain open to receiving life and responding with an unbiased canvas.
The pictures of how life is supposed to be don’t give us a way forward, they limit us to the potential that is truly there.
In the image-driven culture that we are currently living in, the purpose behind the use of images is generally to sell a quality that is missing in our lives, on the premise that we are not enough and this is what will deliver fullfillment. However, there can only be a supply if there first is a demand, which highlights that there is an emptiness that we as a humanity are in general experiencing. And so, the images of perfection, power, beauty, success to name but a minuscule few, drives us to seek outside of ourselves and compete with each other to attain the quality we are missing. Yet what you are sharing here Adele brings a greater and far more purposeful use of images. What if images represented a quality of vibration that confirms who we are in essence? Although we are forever changing, evolving or de-evolving, as you have shared, images that hold the vibration of love, truth, harmony, and Soulfullness will reflect a quality of vibration that we know is true and inspire us to be and live with the true fulfilment being in connection to who we are within, with the quality of vibration of our Divinity, which is one and the same for us all in essence.
“Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.” Divinity is found in the connection of our bodies to every fine movement expressed and it is from here that I too find the most glorious things happen and the reflections in nature and connections with others is simply magic and full of honesty.
“pictures call out to be received” I have never seen it in this way before but it makes absolute sense to me. And this will go for the pictures that are both physical ones we capture or the ones we take on from the ideals and beliefs we hold in our heads.
We can indeed record moments of intense beauty and reflection of the divine being expressed all around us.
True Chris, such beauty is ever-present and a forever blessing.
The camera is a pretty cool representation of how we see – instead of looking out a camera takes in the light of the image it’s receiving – just like us and our eyes. We don’t look outward, we receive light.
The image industry relies upon the grip images have on everyone. It sells images of how can one look and it aligns to images of what does a look mean and represent. Escaping totally from images in such an industry is not an easy task at all. This is important since this brings up the element energetic quality into the picture and the whole array of things we can do to make sure that the quality of an image is simply divine.
Our feeling through and from our body are much more attuned to who we are and these body experiences can be life changing so when there is an understanding of how this relationship re-connects us back to our divine essence magic happens with all our relations because our expression becomes a great reflection.
For more on essence go to;
http://www.unimedliving.com/search?keyword=essence
Images ask us to constantly create.
‘For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits.’ Those pesky expectations they get us nowhere! I love the way you work Adele and can palpably feel the joy and ease in which you work. I also loved what you shared in that to work with images we have to let go of … images! And ideals, beliefs and expectations. Ironic but so true 💕
In an industry that is all about image, its great to bring forward a bit of truth into all that glamour and illusion for there is nothing more beautiful than natural beauty which is completely image free.
Only yesterday I heard some basic science about the body and how it functions in its movement; We even “image” how are bodies are going to move and where they are at any given moment, because evidently we have a preconceived notion of how it will feel from the brain that has been trained through habit in this way. I think I understood it right, but basically the result was that we do not necessarily feel the truth of where our bodies are. It seems imaging is learned so we can unlearn it. Instead of allowing our brains to image our next movement, how about feeling the energy that is flowing through it instead and following its flow? This must be what is happening Adele, when you just respond to being open to whatever picture your camera is taking?
I have been reading about mirroring neurons which tell me we need to be the change we want to see because influential children and teenagers are watching and mimicking! Unlearning learnt behaviour is far harder than deepening that connection with ourselves in the first place.
I wonder if there will come a time when the image industry won’t be all about image, but truth and true beauty. For when this occurs we will be in a far better state because the image industry has a lot to answer for in creating images most can’t live up to and by this are made to feel less.
So true kevmchardy, and we feed it by not speaking up enough about the images that are feeding the sexism and unrealistic images for both men and women.
Totally Kev ad Lucy. As the world has become more ‘global’ and ‘mass-produced’ and a small number of influential people and corporations are calling the shots, so the images of beauty become more limited, and channelled into a particular style and all the millions of women that cannot fit that image are kept in discontent. I have observed lately watching a program about a Scottish doctor ( at the time just after the war) what a gorgeous selection of women with faces and figures that do not fit the current mould have been show-cased. Their joy, clarity and purity and delightfulness are so fresh and enchanting – it was as if truth and beauty was to some extent still acknowledged then. But,as you say Kev, a future with true truth and beauty will be such a glorious thing to behold.
“A true image is formulated only when everything aligns at one single moment, and after that moment, something else is already formulating. No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.” This is such a gorgeous revelation and shows how unnatural it is to demand that people and life deliver an image we have been holding onto in our mind.
So true Adele, the images I have definitely paint a facade that takes me away from my connection through expectations of myself and others.
Imagine a world without images, could this be something like a world without lies so that truth is understood to be an absoluteness, which is part of our divine connection to God?
Exposing that when we have expectations of things being a certain way and we are only allowed to see what our mental expectation permits, is truly profound… for so many if not all of us are consumed and therefore restricted by the pictures we have…. And when living through their lense we are denied being able to truly see what is there to evolve us should we let go and surrender and just see what is there to be seen.
“we can all feel Truth, which is one and the same for all.” two incredible scientific laws in one small part-sentence Adele! – very confirming to take into the day with me.
As someone else who works on the image industry I can see how valuable it is to be able to let go of images. I’ve built up images to give me security of how things need to look and then I fee let down when something does not meet my picture – so letting go of images is a huge thing and I really appreciate this blog and the fact that it is possible if we trust our senses.
I love this concept that images are pictures to be received – I have never been a confident photographer this gives me something more to play with.
‘If we prepare ourselves every day by connecting to ourselves and being true, a freedom and truth will be expressed, simply by receiving the truth that comes through us.’ I love the simplicity and wisdom expressed here Adele and by choosing to live this we become free of the images that control us.
Beautifully shared Adele – images can certainly lock
Us into a single picture and expectation – when really there is so much more on offer. I really relate to what you share when you say that a true image will never stay the same as nature is always changing. Thank you for your sharing and helping all to understand that a true image is ever changing.
“Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.” This is powerful Adele, and can feel the responsibility we all have to live in a way that is true and allowing of the volume that is there for us to tap into for the benefit of all, thank you for such an inspiring blog.
Are images that call out for us to capture, just markers for us to reflect back on and appreciate our evolution?
Almost from day one I was my mothers baby boy then I was her first baby boy, and this image was something she held me in until her passing. After being sexually molested I had the possible image I may be gay and this was a huge upheaval in my life. Drinking and partying gave me an image of being like a TV star and made me forget about being molested. My life was riddled with things that were just heaped one upon another that disconnected me from being the loving tender man who was humbly sensitive and divine. Thank you Adele and also thanks to Serge Benhayon for helping my ability to heal any issues that I am carrying from my past about images of what my life should be like an image has never helped me reconnect to my inner-most. It is only the light of the soul that when I reconnect to it that brings me to an image free place in my life.
Our entire world is made up of pictures.
It is actually difficult to personally imagine the world without some sort of picture underlying its manifestation.
We are heavily vested and influenced by pictures every single day.
The topic of images is pertinent – a friend and I were recently cleaning out our respective wardrobes with the help of a consultant and we realised how our choices and purchases had been driven by a certain image; for one of us it had been overconsumption based on pretence and for the other sparseness rooted in lack of self worth. The result and conclusion: images are not the truth, they are just an image.
“There are many moments when I simply felt impulsed to press the shutter of a camera without even seeing exactly what was in my viewfinder. Something was calling me to simply receive what was being offered. When I looked at these pictures, my heart skipped a beat, not only because the glory was physically visible, but also because the harmony captured was deeply palpable.” Every time I read this paragraph again I marvel at what I have read. I know what is expressed here, and am left realising how much of the world around me and my own life is spent chasing images and control. This example is a great prompt for allowing true harmony and flow.
“If we prepare ourselves every day by connecting to ourselves and being true, a freedom and truth will be expressed, simply by receiving the truth that comes through us.” It really is that simple isn’t it? A choice to connect to who we are offers an opportunity for truth to be revealed.
One only needs to take a beautiful photo of a sunrise and know that you waited for that moment that is just right, it is a feeling, then the moment is gone. It is like capturing an explosion, a freeze frame of something that happens so fast we can’t see it and then it is gone. Advertising photos are as you have said Adele, just an attempt to re-create a spark after it is gone.
Expressing and capturing what is truth is certainly the key to a gloriously divine image. As you have expressed Adele, hanging on to pictures denies us the opportunity to feel the truth in every moment.
“For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits. But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.” This is so true and the way we are held in images and the fashion industry is all based on these images ideals and beliefs and is enormous in the world. Our evolution is what we are all here for so exposing this is in our lives allows and opens up a true honesty and expansion in and with the all. Seeing the beauty and magic all around us opens us up to receive and allows everything and everyone a joyful way of being with no pictures only truth.
Glorious to receive life instead of impose on it.
I agree Adele, photography continually shows me, that when I try to create something, arrange or generate an image that I think is ‘good’, everything reduces down and often falls apart. When I open myself up to just what comes and take photos without expecting anything big, what comes through blows me away. This is a potent metaphor for how we are given everything we need naturally in life and trying to control it just misses the point.
I can relate to your focus on these words of Adele’s, Jenny. What kind of madness possesses us that we have to hold onto an image of anything at all, when it cannot be anything but already past. It reminds me of those collections of dead butterflies. Can we imagine doing that in Heaven?
When we feel impulses to take a photo I know I begin to concoct images of how I want it to look like, with the angles and the scenery and the “happy” or “good time” look, which is to show that I’m always having a good time, but the truth is found in the original impulse of the moment, not what we want it to be.
Adele this is super powerful what you share here and imagine if we could receive images as you say and have the space to be us and not be imposed upon all these ideals and beliefs of what it is to be as women. This sentence really stuck with me -‘Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.’
I just have to wake each morning to feel the influx of images that can pour in from the moment we step out of bed. Each one loaded with how we should be rather than stopping to feel where the body needs to be.
It all comes down to relationship with our selves and others and the magic of this – true religion – in the image and fashion industry as in all other work-places, occupations and activities. Images can be a particularly tricky and seductive milieu to be working in and I love the way you have described coming to terms with that Adele. And it is also interesting that images rule us in whatever situation we are in, if we are unaware of them and let them rule us with the shadows they cast between us and the Sun/Son of God.
So true Andrew I use to have a treasure trove of images to bring my ideals and believes to the front so as I would not feel hurt. As I have dropped a lot of images my life feels more complete and not as topsy-turvy.
So true James, when I take away all my pictures and I feel much freer in my choices and with this I also feel a responsibly that then also brings a greater awareness and therefore more potential.
It is such a greater feeling of freedom when we do not feel tied or attached to any outcome or picture – it is like we can then naturally let what is before us unfold irrespective of what it looks like.
Stepping away from the image I held myself in was the start of my true healing.
In every moment we can align with the one unified truth or try and hold onto a picture we are drawn to create and live.
This is so well explained and teased out, the way we allow ourselves to be dominated by images; they are held as icons when in fact, they hem us in and limit us in many more ways than we are generally willing to see and accept.
Images can be so influential on our thoughts, choices and behaviours. Recognising this it then becomes important to always check in with ourselves to see if we are being swayed by an image or if it is a true feeling or impulse.
“But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve” – using our eyes to ‘just see what we see’, over receiving what objects, sights, images, senses are surrounding and coming toward the eyes – completely changed my seeing-sight, and also vision of what was going on around me, for example what was below the surface of what was seen visually. To truly be receiving is also a true observant of what we see with the eyes…where our eyes and sight equally are also our sound, our taste, touch, feel and sense.
‘Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.’ wow – the power in this is amazing – healing through images.
When we miss the natural beauty of life, it’s like we think we have to construct ‘beautiful’ things, places or moments artificially. But as you show Adele, this is the very thing stopping us from seeing the gorgeousness of what life is and who we are. This vision of us as mundane, everyday, commonplace human beings must be one of biggest misunderstandings known to humankind.
When we are limiting ourselves to being in a relationship with an image already created, it is like trying to fit ourselves into a specific mould and not appreciating all that we bring. It is like talking about a sphere as it were a circle – you take away its 3 dimensionally and reduce it to something it is not. The freedom to just be and be celebrated for this is exquisite.
In nature, nothings stands still, even though everything can be so still – what this means is that in each moment, there is a new moment being presented where things have moved or shifted in some wonderful way, and so to try to re-create what was a moment ago means to go agains the natural flow of things. This is what the image industry attempts to do, to copy or re-create what was…and in so doing the control of the situation takes away all the natural elements, and does not allow for the openness of what could be…
When we allow things to be as they are, and take a photo or capture an image as is, then there is an honesty in it, especially more so when the image captures the beauty of a moment that only nature has offered, be it in our natural way of being, a moment of unawareness of the camera…thank you Adele for sharing the magic of allowing for true photography.
Images flood our everyday, and there are so many times that we don’t even notice that we have been influenced by a picture. More and more though I am noticing when I have been taken in by a picture as my body goes into a tension and I go into my head.
It is not that I don’t like my picture taken, or is it because I have always been the one behind the lens. It has always been a great place to hide in the open and not be seen. And as you have said the natural shots are when all the walls are gone, in front and behind the lens.
My father was a quiet and humble man who loved photography. Once in a while he would turn up at gatherings with his camera and the huge zoom attachment and sit quietly in a corner playing, testing the zoom, pointing it at different angles for ages. After awhile everyone would clock he is not actually taking photos, so everyone would relax and carry on. Afterwards he would always surprise people with the odd moments captured where they looked free, open, innocent and divine. I always marvelled at the difference between these photos and the ones in which people posed for the camera. What is naturally expressed through us is so much grander and more beautiful than the glossy prescribed images we buy into, whether in photography or anywhere else in life.
I am loving this ongoing expose of the fashion industry. As a woman, especially when I was a teenager, the images I received in the magazines and media were very influential. Even if I rejected those images, I had a measure of what I was supposed to be like and whether I was measuring up. This is one of the many filters we look out on life through.
When we expect to see something in a certain way, that is what we receive, the perception that we already held. This to me explains why 20 people in a room can recount an event in a completely different way. The practice of just receiving what you see is one that is a constant work in progress for me, but it is well worth it. So much more depth and richness in life and myself is revealed when I allow myself to see and feel it.
‘A true image is formulated only when everything aligns at one single moment, and after that moment, something else is already formulating. No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.’ Well said Adele, and hence we are totally open to true evolution.
The images in the world seem to take us further and further away from the beings we are. Sexualised advertising and music videos show our children there is no sacredness in our bodies, when in fact the opposite is true.
We are constantly fed images of how we should look like, if we take on these ideas our whole physical and mental health will suffer. I love how you have shown the way to work in an industry that, in truth, is all about comparison.
Letting go of images is such a huge one as we are bombarded with imagery wherever we look. We don’t even realise we are comparing things, life, partners, children to images we have built up over our life. There is so much to let go of and we can start by observing life, reading it, receiving it and being connected with ourselves.
Yes, Esther, it is capturing a moment with the knowing that is ever evolving and cannot be held onto.
Yes, Adele, I can feel how liberating it must be to relinquish any mental constructs or images in your work, creating the space for something to occur that is spontaneous, natural and in alignment to the love you bring to everyone involved.
“But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.”
I am particularly struck by the paradigm shift in the difference between the words seeing & receiving Adele.
For the word ‘seeing’ suggests to me an assumed sensory dominance and control over what we perceive externally, perhaps in how we have mastered ‘seeing what we want to see’, whereas to receive an image begins with a humble discernment of what we perceive internally, an openness and availability to an whole energetic package.
I love taking candid photos where people aren’t aware that they’re being photographed because it shows the rawness of who and how they are naturally rather than who they ‘become’ when a camera is pointed their way.
As we hold existing images in life our perception will often tint what we receive as an image and we can sometimes only see what perception itself allows rather than the truth offered in any moment of reflection.
I agree Adele and Lyndy it is the desire to be safe that creates the images of what life should be like rather than feeling true safety through connection to our inner heart and being open to all that constelates around us.
Great point Michael this brings a whole different level of images, the ideals and beliefs we hold about how life is or should be. Those images are far stronger than what we see on TV even though the TV then backs them up.
It is interesting to ponder why we feel we need images – and whether we actually do. What is the underlying message of seeking out images? Perhaps that we enjoy creating things? Or that we are seeking something better in life? Maybe it is a way of escaping? Rather than taking the fact that we need images for granted perhaps we should look at what is already in place before we engage in creation, betterment or escape. We might discover that what we already is innately beautiful and give up our need for imagery altogether.
That is why blogs such as these, need to be posted to show that there is another way to be that is giving us an opportunity to not doubt what true expression lies within.
Images and pictures run the world and we control and are controlled by them – this is a devastation to the worlds they are all fabricated.Combined with the use of words as a poisonous weapon, our relationships with each other can be mostly destructive and totally unreal, unless we are willing to feel and observe life.
“By contrast, in the image industry we are constantly trying to re-create images – we regurgitate images and seek a perfection based on images”… how true is this Adele, and in this, it develops or further cements our own sense of lack of value and worth… things that the image/beauty/fashion world and industries play and feast on to make more profits – they create an image/advert to feed the internal picture or ideal we hold about ourselves in relation to that, like not measuring up. When we get to know who we are through the love we are, images become nothing more than the tantalising flimsy whims they actually are, leaving the only thing we ‘measure’ to – is our true selves.
‘…what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.’ This is a lovely statement Adele, which confirms that we are being offered this opportunity at every moment and we have the choice to say yes or to further delay by missing that moment. This fluid response to the moment allows us to unfold with the flow so that, for example, by taking photos when they ‘call out to be received’, we can capture the essence of the subject because we are not imposing our own idea on them.
‘Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.’ This is beautiful Adele. To consider that the magic of God is there for us all to connect to always, is amazing.
Adele, what a refreshing look at the image industry and how one can work within it. So many photos taken are taken from the need to present a certain kind of stereo-type image but how different are photos taken where we respond to the call of the moment.
Every time I reflect on what is expressed I get a deeper understanding. Preparing ourself every day to simply be open and receive what life and divinity present, and to simply flow with it in our expression is a beautiful way to be with life. And so inspiring.
Yes who hasn’t experienced that great picture which was taken by accident or without any preparation and brings an honest account to our expression? It can be seen to be honest in two ways – from the point of view of the photographer as well as the subject. Bringing this up as Adele has, serves to place our attention on the quality of the eyes we look through and not so much as a judge of what we look at. This feels freeing and enables us to unravel our confusion as to where the true power in images really lies.
I swear my shutter has pressed itself sometimes when I lift my camera to take a photo, a split second before I do. Those photos are usually magic.:-)
Adele an image industry that is not all about images, wow what a world that would be like. With each image at the moment we are present layer upon layer of how things should be, how we should look, feel, talk, move etc.. time to change that up.
The fashion industry is about creating wear on details that make a difference; details that get our attention and which ‘suck us in’ because we have an adoration for images and wish to become one that we like.
“Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” – I agree for sure, the grace of a picture that captures someone’s (or something’s) beauty and true expression without imposing ideals onto or through it is truly successful.
“Have we ever been blown away by the deep beauty we see in ourselves when we were not intentionally posing to be photographed?” They are the most beautiful moments to capture, snapshots of people just being themselves with their guard down. How glorious when we are all able to let the world see who we really are, to let our beauty shine naturally, whether we are posing for a picture or not.
We are under constant bombardment from images, advertising perfection everywhere. Unless you live like a hermit in a cave with no TV, radio, mail, internet magazines, billboards and signs… the advertisers will get you. Being a hermit is not an option, so being deaf and dumb is the only way not to be affected by this attack, or, you feel and see the falseness of what is being presented!
At last years Vietnam retreat hosted by Universal Medicine I was made aware of what images actually are, and the absolute control they can have over us if we are unaware of how they can completely rule our lives and keep us miserable because we can’t quite live up to the images we have been sold.
We can all feel truth… The barometer is built in… It’s just whether we actually take the time to build a foundation within us so we can recognize truth… And this is what is essential for our evolution
It’s ironic how the magic happens when there is no image or picture of what it should be. This can be said about everything.
I agree Adele the only way to prepare our self to be able to receive true images or reflections is to live a life that is free of projected images. We do this by letting go of any image we are holding of how things should look or be like, as any expectation is a rejection of what is there to be received.
Thank you Adele. You remind me that our souls attempt to communicate with us every moment of every day and that they use whatever means available to reach us. We may try to close our eyes, cover our ears and shut down our awareness but we will always be presented with the next step in our evolution.
Yes to both of the questions first asked in that I am amazed at pictures I have taken with no expectations and also that I have been blown away by my beauty and tenderness in photos that have been taken of me I have seen without intentionally posing for them. This is quite big for me as I never thought I was good at taking photos and always hated having my photo taken and hated how I looked.I love what you have shared here ‘If we prepare ourselves every day by connecting to ourselves and being true, a freedom and truth will be expressed, simply by receiving the truth that comes through us.’ … So true.
When we let go of how things should look, we are often surprised because we are able to see what is really there and it can be way more spectacular than our imagination and our preconceived picture was.
I know that whenever I look at a situation I want to photography, the moment I had an idea of how I want it to look I will almost always not like the photo I take, because it doesnt match up – but then I miss out on the real image and the beauty it might have captured
As you have said Adele, God is reflecting back to us all the time, and when we connect to this, it becomes Magic of God, the moment of beauty before us, but the magic is beyond the image we see, it is what we feel, what we receive from that image. For example when we look at the sunset in all its beauty and glory as it lays to rest after a day of shining bright. If we only see it as just another sunset, we can completely dismiss it as we continue on in our life. But when we take a moment and let it in, not only see its beauty, but also feel it, we feel something deeper…that is the emanation of the image we receive through our eyes and our hearts.
“But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.” This to me also highlights the need for us to be discerning about what it is we are receiving – and to do this we need to be connected and not off in our heads somewhere, unconsciously casting our gaze about. So it makes sense then to work on living in connection with ourselves, in conscious presence, thinking about what we are doing when we are doing it, so when we receive an image, we are able to feel instantly the quality and energy it comes with.
Reading this is opening me up to appreciating what is true is not an intellectual exercise that I control or create but an openness to what is there already. No effort to make something happen required.
As usual a very interesting sharing Adele. We are changing everyday! There is no way we can see an image of anything and expect it to be the same next time we look at that person or scene, a bit like time lapse photography!
The images we have can so much determine an outcome, but when we just observe the true beauty is shown.
Gorgeous to read this, and I feel this is the magic that pulls me into photographing life in all its facets. It isn’t in every shot, but when I am just observing life, seeing something of beauty take place before me the real beauty is shown through a picture. We are blessed by this medium, freezing moments that can show us true harmony, but at the same time it is very much able to constrict us to the images that we get presented everyday. Pulling us away from who we truly are.
Our preconceived images, ideals and beliefs, are really just us trying to control everything and everyone around us – its hard work and exhausting to maintain these images… and so much easier to go with the harmonious flow of our true impulses, to follow our innately harmonious and joy-full inner heart.
Once you can wrap your head around this one, “because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment” it is a game changer. I have started to develop a relationship with this and it is so liberating because it allows me (and those around me) to be who ever they are in that one give moment, and then the next, different. it does involve letting go of pictures and allowing the Divine to unfold.
When we have preconceived images of how life should be, how someone should be or how we should be, then we miss the beauty and magic of God, and end up resisting the natural flow of life which is so harmonious.
“…it is only when our preconceived attachments to what we are looking for subside that we get to truly express as ourselves” and to truly see what is before us.
‘If we are honest, we can all feel Truth, which is one and the same for all….’ – this is awesome Adele – If I sit with this line I can absolutely feel the truth of it. And as you share – truth is the same for all of us!
“There are many moments when I simply felt impulsed to press the shutter of a camera without even seeing exactly what was in my viewfinder.”
I feel this sentence completely changes what it means to ‘take a photo’. It removes the rules and knowledge around getting a good photo and instead allows the person/scene being photographed to express its self, with out direction to fit a certain way, but to offer their way in full open innocence.
I love what you are saying here Adele about not holding back on receiving what divinity is offering us all of the time. This brings such richness to life and reminds us that we do not come from here and that we are returning to live the truth of our divine origins.
‘For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits.’ – Expectations stop us from seeing what is truly in front of us – this is how we narrow down the grandness that we are all part of.
What’s amazing is to see people’s real essence come out in photographs that are taken in this way.
“…Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs…” Yep, some images have the ability to bring you to a deeper connection and sense of self, where some images feed a concept that can make you think, dream or want something other than everything that you already have.
One of the beautiful images we have around in the UK at the moment is of bare trees silhouetted against a stunning sunset backdrop. Whether it is the mathematically precise divisions of the branches or their stark blackness against the orange, I don’t know but it is there for us to enjoy every single day.
I love these natural winter images Carmel – another is when the sky is stormy and the sunlight is lighting the tree in front of the sky like a great torch of light standing tall and strong against the elements.
This is always a gift given in Adeles blogs. She is amazing at sharing Divinity in the finer details of life. A double thank you Adele – very appreciative.
Images are really all around us from the obvious forms of advertising and in the industries etc to the beliefs and ideals that people carry of having to be a particular way or meet certain criteria to be something . . . And the list goes on to every area of life and every role available.
It is the beauty of self connection that I have discovered that has allowed me to see the images that I was blinded by and really sold out to or accepted in others. Thank you for this amazing blog Adele – as always you share in a very realistic and loving way that reminds me of the purity we see in children.
The pictures we try so hard to live up to certainly have a way of holding us to ransom. And it’s no fun, and certainly doesn’t get us anywhere.
I very much like this line “images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” As I experienced that on my own. When a picture does suggest to have an ideal I get a feeling of narrowness, but the other pictures you spoke about, they give me a feeling of space. I am inspired to discover the same magic in me and not to copy something from someone else I do not have.
“For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits.” – and we miss the beauty in the moment when we expect something or someone to be a certain way.
‘No images can be held onto.. because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment’ So true Adele; how can you become attached to something that has already evolved and changed? When we hold onto images and ideals we are trying to live in the past which is actually impossible to recreate, so like a hamster in a wheel we’ll never feel fulfilled by meeting the expectation we’ve put on ourselves.
When I read this Adele, ‘the way to work with images is to be image-free within ourselves’ reminds me of people who say they don’t like their picture taken, because what they see in a picture is not what they feel inside. Could this be because of an image of who or what they are trying to look like? Losing that image takes away any of those expectations to the outcome and allows us all to simply be ourselves.
In deep appreciation for what you are presenting here Adele – I can feel how it is the foundation I build for myself that supports the movements that make me available to receive true images,
‘We prepare ourselves everyday’ it feels like when we take this responsibility for the way we are in whatever we are doing the quality of what we are doing changes.
“By contrast, in the image industry we are constantly trying to re-create images – we regurgitate images and seek a perfection based on images.” How exhausting and how unsatisfying this pursuit feels. How glorious to let go of the end game and learn to allow yourself to really connect to and see the beauty that is already present, a fleeting moment of connection that is captured, appreciated and honoured for its own worth, unhindered by a constant pressure to fit into an ideal or definite picture.
How boring and dull is life if we are settling for the constant recreating of images- . . . give me the truth, vibrancy and freshness of a snapshot impulsed from the heart any day.
“If we are honest, we can all feel Truth, which is one and the same for all.” just reading this brings a stillness to my body, I’ve always known and felt what is true – just either not expressed it, ignored it and put the “images” of life ahead of the truth. What if images where used not to hide and cover up and entice but to present the truth of life?
Absolutely. Truth is always felt. This is why people gravitate to the true beauty in children and new born babies or photos that absolutely sparkle with a radiance or the magnificence that nature offers us in amazing moments and scenery. These all bring an ‘ahhh’, a pause, an appreciation and form of stillness to the body. Different for different people but still an acknowledgment of the truth we are from.
You are so correct, Adele, when you write, “No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment”. .So much stress and conflict we have in life is because we hold onto an image of how it should be rather than letting life unfold.
I love this part – ‘constantly changing from moment to moment’
This exposes the craziness of people who always stand behind their video or camera instead of being part of the moment and truly enjoying it.
‘…to express what is Truth.’ I love this and in it exposes that images either capture the truth of a situation or create an image by design to be appealing to those who view it, in doing seeking approval, acceptance and recognition.
I have a feeling that a photograph reflects more truth when it is the intent of the photographer to connect with the innate beingness of their subject rather than to just create a great looking image.
Photography for me has always been to tell a story and captures a moment of where I was, and they become markers for myself, rather than being some flat random moment frozen in time, Why, when you have your photo taken are so many taken? It is to find the one that let the real you to come out and shine, that catches your essence.
Because we are trying to fit an image of what we think we should like and need other people to like it, because we are empty and lack true love for ourselves.
Adele, it’s really helpful to read this, ‘it is only when our preconceived attachments to what we are looking for subside that we get to truly express as ourselves.’ I can feel how I can have a set idea of what a photograph should look like and so try to control the situation and person to get this image or I can not have an idea beforehand and be open to whatever comes and allow the divine to come through me, the latter feels like a very simple, easy, fun way to work.
I know there are never any coincidences in life. What comes our way and I hadn’t thought of it in this context is that every image presented to us is an opportunity to evolve. As I receive this truth in this light it supports me to detach from the image. Thank you Adele for sharing another amazing blog.
There is a post online about glamour magazines that rip out all of the advertising pages with about 90% removed. The remaining 10% will advise you on how you can improve your looks. Most adds are altered images of what you should strive to look like, but they are the carrot on the stick that will never be achieved… but meant for you to never stop buying and trying.
I love the line in this that What we are receiving in each moment is an opportunity to evolve as this is so true we just have to open up and be aware of it. Also not buying into the images that we are constantly fed so that life never actually adds up to the image in our heads so we are always left wanting and not fulfilled and we miss the true image when it is staring us in the face.
I can see how having pictures (expectations) box me in and limit what I am able to see or express.
Yes and we can have images and expectations in any area of our lives, it feels like only by living in the present moment and feeling what is needed in that moment can we stop the disappointments, set backs and limitations of the images we hold.
A definite yes to this question “Have we ever been blown away by the deep beauty we see in ourselves when we were not intentionally posing to be photographed?”. I love pictures being taken where people are actually naturally laughing / being themselves. The openness, sweetness, love, naturalness and tenderness are so palpable. Feeling back into these pictures, I cannot but smile and feel myself opening up more and feel my own tenderness.
So true Floris. I take a lot of photographs of people and I find that they often hide their beauty when they are aware they are being photographed. I have even seen this happen when the person is not consciously aware they are being photographed. When someone chooses to be seen in front of the camera the results are beautiful.
When we don’t pose to an image we tend to come out better then picture perfect.
Imagine being image free in all areas of our life, it can allow for what is truly there to be brought through to happen.
Only the true photographer knows that it is these divine constellations captured that will support us in our evolution back to Soul and the images made in this space will show us our natural way of being we all have a remembering of.
This is the best advice not only for the fashion industry: “No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.” Thank you Adele for pointing this out.
It is huge what you are trying to relate Adele. Can it be simplified by the image of black or white. Black can be used for divinity or it can be used to have a dark meaning. We could go into more significant colours like Gold and the same can be portrayed, it can be used to support us or used to deceive us. It comes back to the vibration of how the images are produced, and as Adele expresses the vibration you know is true in your body. So, it makes sense to run with what you know is true in your body so you can discern what is true out there.
Well said Alex. We are constantly fed a vast array of images that seek to seduce us and through such a spell a blinding occurs that will not let us see the truth that lives at the very core of us all.
There is only truth and then all the images that flood in to offset this if we do not hold steady to the truth that we in essence are. I love what you are presenting here Adele, that the key to receiving a true ‘image’ (reflection) is through living life image free. Not in a wipe-your-mind clear kind of way but simply by living (moving) true to the essence (love) within so we are better able to see and feel the divinity and thus the magnitude of support (God’s love) that surrounds us and imbues us to help us return to the great love that we are. How great then is our responsibility to live in a way that reflects all that we are so that we do not end up, by way of chosen blindness, reflecting all that we are not? We are being asked here to no longer choose to reflect a very false way to be that we have been fed by a whole host of images and ideals that do not honour such truth.
Yes Adele it is as if we all are trying so desperately hard to ‘come up with something’ when we are given absolutely all we need already. The whole idea that we create things in the first place is the biggest picture of all, for as our bodies know and you show, true beauty flows when we don’t try and just let whatever comes through right out. Imagine if we all lived in line like this, ironically the picture of the world we see would be so much grander than the one we currently see.
“If we are honest, we can all feel Truth, which is one and the same for all.” This is a huge truth that most people choose to ignore on the outside meanwhile it sits so infinitely patient inside us all.
Very true Laura. I have noticed that photography is actually more about getting myself out of the way than it is about anything else. The soul cannot help but express when it is able to shine through and God is communicating with us all day long. If we let go of the need to control outcomes then we can receive these messages and the blessing they bring.
“… seeing is receiving…” Love it Adele! This statement orientates you to recognise that everything around you is living as is there to support and evolve you in some way, no matter how obvious or small.
“Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” Absolutely blown away by every word in this blog and this sentence was particularly strong for me. When I see a photo of a woman radiantly sharing her joy and beauty I am supported to let go of the false and harmful images that the media bombards me with. The photos of Natalie Benhayon on Unimed Living are a great example of this. http://www.unimedliving.com/natalie-benhayon
‘I have come to realise that pictures call out to be received.’ What an extraordinary understanding to present Adele, thank you. True pictures, free of the ideals and beliefs you mention, are moments of divinity and thus have a purpose that heals rather than harms. When you think about the plethora of images that populate our everyday and the motivations behind them, it’s easy to feel how damaging this is. Responsible photography – now how about embracing that?
“True pictures… are moments of divinity and thus have a purpose that heals…” How inspiring to view pictures in this way… the world needs so many more true pictures!
I have seen some photos where I could really feel the photographer’s appreciation of the subject. It literally takes my breath away as I feel like I am with them right there, and it fills me with appreciation for them the photographer for receiving the subject so clearly, with no added ingredients or filter of their own, and simply conveying their essence. Those pictures feel very much alive.
I love those photos that are not posed, where the raw beauty from within is captured and shines through. You feel it more than see it and it touches you and inspires you. We all have so much to share when we don’t hide behind a mask.
This feels amazing to ponder…”I have observed that the way to work with images is to be image-free within ourselves;” I have struggled to have my picture taken and have also not captured what I Wanted to in a photo, these are wise words concerning how we approach this subject. ‘Image-free within ourselves’…gold.
So often in life we see what we project not what is truly there and also with the world of social media we share images to create an image not to share the honesty of what is there.
Reading this I can feel how the mind wants to re-create, re-produce what has already been done because last time it was good so in theory more is better. While the body offers co-creation impulsed from a true source of what is required in that moment supporting constant evolution. Never will there be a lack of inspiration to work with when we are truly impulsed from our bodies.
A camera can capture and image which can be beautiful but is one dimensional, but real magic Is when the essence of the image is felt… that’s when we feel beyond the photo.
Thank you Adele – Your first couple of sentences nailed it and the depth of truth that registered in my body encapsulated all you went on to share. ‘Have we ever been blown away by the deep beauty we see in ourselves when we were not intentionally posing to be photographed?’ – Yes, I have had this moment and it came free from any limitations, setup, holding or contraction. This understanding happened in an instant and has shown me the limitation of words and images and that they will never capture the moment of fullness, a moment like this can bring. Your blog has invited me to feel more deeply ‘Appreciation’ and the light it brings.
I love the title Adele! It captures for me the difference between creating images from ideals and beliefs rather than as you say truly seeing, observing and receiving what is before us and responding to what is there, without attachment, need or imposition. I’ve had the grace of having my photo taken by some great photographers who helped me to really be me in front of the camera – supporting and encouraging me to truly let myself be seen and shine.
Wow – I loved reading this Adele. Having recently begun taking more of an interest in photography and buying a camera. ‘Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it, to feel the call and not hold back in receiving it and allowing it to be expressed through us.’ This is something I have felt so clearly too and that there is an amazing picture in everything when we are open to receive it.
I agree, Rachel. This is a game changer in how we see and understand the photography and imagery industries.
What is deeply humbling to me is the fact that life is presenting Divine moments one by one, everyday. It is up to recognize / connect to / accept the Divinity that is presented in front of our eyes. Life is to be received, rather than being controlled and / or manipulated with pre-conceived ideas. We’re the recipient of life, not the owner. Thank you Adele! A divine piece of writing to receive:-).
Great blog Adele. Our whole life is bombarded with images. When we remove the images, the looking out, we remain with our connection to our divinity, our truest reflection. “Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.”
“Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” Wow, well this sentence really stood out for me in a big way. There can be a certain amount of control that comes with taking a photo, I love what you say about letting go.
I love taking photos. It’s amazing how many times I will take a photo based on an impulse, really enjoy what I see and then try to get a better shot or different angle…and of course it never turns out as well as the original. I had been contemplating what you share here in recent weeks, thanks for the confirmation!
When we really start to look at the way that we use images it becomes obvious that for most of us we are living our life one image after another, for example, we have an image of what kind of man/woman we want to be with, what friends to have, how much money to make etc. Facing up to the fact that we are living from a set of ideals and beliefs is the first step to getting a handle on what we are doing. Feeling how cold and lifeless images are is another step to becoming free of them. True freedom is simply living true to an inner pulse and deeply honouring our connection with all that is.
Hi Adele, this is a really interesting blog that raises so many issues. It’s true that we can hold onto false images for years and will go to great lengths to preserve them. When they get shattered it can be devastating because we have invested so much energy into maintaining them. It’s fascinating to contemplate that ‘no images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.’ It makes absolute sense to me now.
This is good food for thought, Adele, I always carry my camera on my iPhone, and often take several pictures of the same thing, but the first one is usually the one I keep. When we ‘try’ to improve things, they do become stilted. I know when I have enjoyed a photo session, it is usually when the photographer encourages me to move naturally and let my natural playfulness come out.
“For when we expect something to be only a certain way then we are allowed to only see what our mental expectation permits.” This is quite huge what you write here Adele. As when we have expectations, we only see through that lens and that either brings delight or disappointment, depending on if they were met. It narrows our view of the world when we are not open to the whole.
Everything that is truth has movement, if we hold an image we hold what is not true.
“Something was calling me to simply receive what was being offered.” This is a beautiful sharing… very different from the feeling of having to ‘get the shot’ and, or pushing and looking outwards for the perfect image.
I get a mixed bag with this blog to be honest and find it a little difficult to relate to parts of it. Overall I see possibly an industry built on getting this ‘right’ and not being flexible in just the beauty of feeling what’s in front of them. Trying to perfect something that already has a beautiful perfection in it’s own way. When we try and own a part of life, an image, a word, a phrase and don’t see it as something grander then this is already a restricted view of what is there. If we open everything up all the time to not own our part but truly see everything then no matter what the flavour of what’s in front of us we can appreciate what’s there. It would seem when we make it less then that we try and always be better and exact and spend or waste a lot of time.
Reading this made me think of ‘selfies’ and how perhaps, underneath all the need for recognition or to be accepted, we are trying to capture our divinity, which will not be there unless we can see and accept ourselves in full as that before the shutter is pressed.
‘I have observed that the way to work with images is to be image-free within ourselves’ – Awesome Adele – another honest account from you on a whole new way to see the world – with truth at the forefront. I love how you have shared the difference when we do not hold onto an outcome -it can be said for anything really but images is a big one!
“However, when we hold onto any images, this act is already not aligned to the natural movement that our bodies feel, which is simply to receive what is being presented in that moment.” To see through the pictures and images that we hold around certain things in life, we need to feel the truth of what is presented to us. It is through feeling and staying true to what we feel are we able to allow the ideals and beliefs that are associated with our pictures drop away.
‘Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.’ Great statement Adele!
Wow this paragraph offered a light bulb moment: “I have observed that the way to work with images is to be image-free within ourselves; not by controlling our thoughts that having images is bad, but by the choices we make every day to free ourselves from the big daddy of images, the ideals and beliefs we have accepted in life.” Trying to not have images is like trying to squash symptoms of an illness, in both cases the underlying foundation that gives birth to them need to be addressed for any true change, healing and expansion.
Whenever we hold onto any image we are forgoing the opportunity to receive the truth already known and available to us through our bodies, and as such embracing the wisdom of knowing there is always more to us, through which we can evolve. An image is a reflection or symbol of light, yet it is the degree of Divine light within that image, that reflects whether it holds the truth of the light of the Soul or not. And so the greatest moments ever captured, are any moments that are lived and expressed from our connection to our Soul.
Beautiful Adele. So often when we look at photos of ourselves we pick them apart. We seek things we don’t like. But do we see the energy? And when the photo is taken do we have a fear of what the image will look like and does that impact how we move in front of the camera? Or are we moving freely and expressing the truth of who we are? I recently was part of a photo shoot and it was very exposing. The entire process revealed a lot.
Have a preconceived notion will certainly affect what I see, I have experienced this before when I have looked at an image while I was in a certain mood and then gone back to it in a different mood and seen a completely different picture. Worth considering for sure.
I have to say that I am right at the beginning of seeing the images that my life is ruled by. I am seeing my patterns, ideals and beliefs more clearly, however they have to come from somewhere. I almost don’t want to see them in a sense because I will see the hold they have (or I have allowed them to have).
I remember having my picture taken when I was in my early 20s for a gate pass and how my body and face re-arranged themselves without my doing and I looked particularly lifeless at that moment.
Yes Nico, in our society from TV, magazines and advertising we have preloaded images of the world and of course stereotypes, If we buy into these false notions it becomes how we see the world, but it is artificial and never works that way in reality. If we don’t buy into these images, we see the world for what is really going on and don’t get fooled, this wisdom is priceless.
I fully agree with you Bernard, the images that constantly are presented to us are repeatedly telling us a story that invites us to be who we actually are not but, we have a choice, to buy into them or not and that is of course not something that these images will ever tell to us. Only the wanting to be free, and a readiness to look beyond that way; then we will be supported immensely by people that already have chosen to ignore these images and are following the impulses from their inner hearts instead. And as you say, when we remove the veils from our sight by letting go of these images, the truth of the state of our societies will be visible to us again and then we know there is work to do, to gather all who are lost in this self created world the images are a representation of.
You are so right Adele, if we have an image of how the world should be we are trying to control life, which of course is futile and only leads us to resentment.
When a photo is staged it never captures the essence of the moment, like the smile from sheer joy, it is there naturally for the moment and can not be staged or fabricated.
From what you describe I can feel how limiting these images are and how they put us on a lineal track that seeks confirmation of itself and doesn’t truly allow for inspiration and unfoldment; it thwarts evolution.
“Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” Ohhhh Adele this is a powerful statement and one I feel liberated by as I feel the truth of it and as I feel just how much can be truly gained from images which can help us to let go and open up.
I do so love this expose of how much more is going on in the capturing and viewing of images than this world generally has been wanting to admit…
When we think it is us creating an image or anything for that matter and seek to identify ourselves through that, a lot of energy, anxiousness and strain goes into the task. Whilst if we approach life as something that is coming towards us and all we need to do is to receive it, life becomes a flow, and an ease that we may only remember from our childhood.
‘But seeing is receiving, and what we are receiving every moment is an opportunity to evolve.’ Beautiful expressed Adele, when we start to open up and are no longer attached to what is the outcome, to an image we start to receive and take in what is true.
The best images are the ones that authentically capture the real natural truth of life, it’s easy to make an image look amazing, but to actually capture the essence of life – now that is a skill.
Yes, we are always seeking perfection in the external body without truly understanding that the perfection we are seeking is from within and not from a preconceived image in our heads. We are missing many heavenly moments when we seek external perfection.
Thanks Adele, we learn at a very young age to start looking for the ‘right’ image and keep adding more images as we go along. By the time we are adults we are trying to live up to countless images. We need reminders like this, to tell us that these images are not real, they are not who we are and that it is never too late to let go of them.
Its so true Adele! Even a picture that is full of lots of light and colour can still felt ‘heavy’ and dull when its captured with the intent to be the ‘perfect’ picture or to impose an ideal on us. Yet in contrast, a picture can be very dull and dark and still feel very light and freeing when it is capturing the true beauty, or harmony in that moment. Its all about energy not just about looks.
Yes Joshua, I have noticed this too for many years; some pictures emanate a ‘light’ and deeper beauty even if they are not physically so…
I also feel the heaviness in many pictures and paintings and when I come across one that feels light it really stands out for me.
…there is no question fro me that there is more going on than meets the eye; this is not just physical functional world…
I agree and I have found that even true images can be photoshopped into something false.
What an amazing and truthful presentation, filled with absolute gems such as – “Divinity presents itself all around us, all of the time, and it is up to us to register it”. How beautifully you see the world, Adele…thank you for sharing this with us.
A photo taken without images captures the essence of any moment.
Yes lovely harryjwhite. An image with out any ‘image’ is a true reflection. Perhaps this is what we are trying to ‘capture’?
Love this!
‘Have we ever experienced pictures that turn out absolutely glorious when we simply pressed the shutter without any expectation or thinking?’… using this sentence as a metaphor for life, yes I have! When we let go of images, which come from expectations, ideals or beliefs then life comes to us in even grander ways than we can imagine.
Our soul is a collaboration of movements engaged from our connection to our heart. It is from this connection to our every movement that then encapsulates our quality of being, when we hold this quality there is no room for anything outside of ourselves to sway us off track. i,e images and or beliefs, because we are solid in our connection. True beauty captured in its purest form.
What you present here Adele is groundbreaking, to let go of images in an industry that is solely build on images. But as you explain it is not the picture as such we have to let go of but the preconceived ideas we have about life, the ideas how things have to be and look like and that they have to be captured in a perfect shot.
The whole idea of receiving an image rather than looking out at it as we’re so accustomed to think we’re doing is fascinating Adele and fits very well with my experience that we also receive our thoughts, rather than generate them seemingly from inside our heads. No different to a transistor radio, our thoughts are determined by the channel we’ve dialled into. And when it comes to images, there is a truth to be received from what we ‘see’, and if we insist on being the ‘looker’, then it is us who casts out what we will then be sure to see. We have it very messed up… it’s no wonder we (as a humanity) are just that too.
It is true that a reproduced pose cannot hold the living quality of a natural expression.
Taking more snap shots with my iPhone is definitely going to happen, thank you Adele.
The spontaneity of a true image captured when everything comes with the alignment to that single point is what the photographers yearn to catch. That is a moment of true harmony reflected for us to feel the difference between that and all the other false images.
So true Adele, if we are solid and confident in what feels true to us then we won’t look outside of ourselves for the ‘answers’ and this is how images/ideals lose their power.
How beautiful and how freeing to let go of our images we create and our beliefs ,trying and controlling behaviours and thoughts. What a beautiful way to live with impulses and no attachments and holding on to things allowing the magic of God all around us to be seen and enjoyed. Inspirational Adele.
Those pictures of people that get taken without posing often feel the most genuine. And I understand the restrictive feeling that comes with re-creating images, trying to have images look a certain way on Instagram. Does make me wonder about how images are taken without a pre-constructed image before hand. Thank you Adele.
I absolutely love reading your blogs Adele! Thank you
We all have images or pictures of how we want or expect our lives to be, but when we stay attached to these and life doesn’t work out that way, then we get disappointed or hurt and this gradually colours our lives. Having no pictures and just being open to what is on offer for us allows so much more, and is an opportunity for our own evolution.
“……only when our preconceived attachments to what we are looking for subside that we get to truly express as ourselves.” So true Adele – holding pictures – aka expectations – prevents us from seeing what is truly there to be seen – ie felt.
I have also experienced this Adele, where I will simply capture a moment for no seeming reason and find I have a beautiful photo that is also free from the ideas of how it should have been or should have looked, for as you say when we work from here, we are seeking to make life or the situation fit into the pictures in our head and in the process miss out on how it already is.
Adele – I love what you share here about pictures and feel deeply inspired to go and pick up my phone and begin to experiment with taking pictures without any ideals or beliefs of how they should be and simply receive the truth of what is there.
“When I looked at these pictures, my heart skipped a beat, not only because the glory was physically visible, but also because the harmony captured was deeply palpable”.
“No images can be held onto when they are true because we, nature and everything are constantly changing from moment to moment.” I love this Adele because it prevents us from the ownership and identification that holding on breeds.
I love your point about allowing images to come to us. Instead of looking out trying to create an image we can simply allow ourselves to receive.
Adele i simply loved reading this line “Images are truly successful only when they allow us to let go of, rather than further cement, preconceived ideals and beliefs.” its very much the opposite of how images are used today but brings a real truth and purpose to them. From fashion, design, graphics and so on what if all images were approached in this way?
This is presenting so much truth Adele, how our own held and preconceived images and pictures of what we think life needs to be gets in the way of what is truly there to be seen. Even the concept that we receive images constantly rather than us seeing life is a curve ball to what we are taught. I have been re-adjusting the way I have thought I was seeing and receiving and you are so right, there are messages everywhere if we so choose to allow them in.
Images really distort what we are seeing and really do limit the potential in a moment, as when we are open and allow ourselves to receive what’s there, the situation has so much more space around it to actually take the time to express from a body that is un-encumbered and open, because it is more in the flow of what is next.
Thank you Adele this is huge, I can feel how much I have held onto images and also how often I have been disappointed with photos I have taken so much so that for many years I gave up taking photos saying that I was no good at it. What I can also feel is the attachment that I have had to photos from my past – going as far as to say that they would be the one thing that I would rescue if there was a fire at my house! Connecting and feeling the truth of what is there to express allows for a letting go of any attachments to past images that are no longer required.
What we see, becomes a film that is made up of frames that are a capture of frozen moments. Why would we stop and try to change the past or wish it to be something it was not?