Pet The Whale
Pet the Whale: Capturing the Moment Beyond the Lens
In a world where our lives are often captured in pixels and megapixels, there’s a tale that reminds us of the importance of being in the moment and savoring the extraordinary experiences life has to offer. This story is not about a petting the whale literally , but it’s a lesson that’s stuck with me, and I’d like to share it with you.
A few years back, I had the privilege of taking a National Geographic photography course. While the name of the renowned photographer who led the course escapes me at the moment, it’s the story he shared that remains etched in my memory. It was a story about a family vacation, a boat trip, and a close encounter with a magnificent whale.
As the family ventured on a whale-watching excursion, they were graced by the presence of a friendly whale swimming alongside their boat. His family were touching the whale, savoring every moment. The photographer with all his gear at hand was eager to capture the perfect shot. He meticulously adjusted his camera settings, pondering if his shutter speed was fast enough to seize the moment. As he got lost in the technicalities of his craft, he forgot to savor the magic happening around him. He forgot to “pet the whale.”
Now, let me share a recent personal experience that echoes this sentiment. Just this morning, I found myself at my favorite shooting spot, waiting patiently for the deer herd that frequents the field. The stage was set, my camera poised, and everything seemed perfect. But as I gazed at the distant shadows, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of these creatures through my binoculars. The sun was casting a gentle glow, and the deer appeared at ease.
However, an unexpected interruption shattered the tranquility. A speeding pickup truck frightened the deer away, and I scrambled to hit the record button. All I managed to capture was their white tails vanishing into the woods. In that moment, I recalled the story of the pet whale, and I realized that sometimes it’s about experiencing the present rather than obsessing over capturing it.
Despite the missed opportunity, I was left with a sense of gratitude. The morning had been lovely, the temperature just right. I had witnessed the deer rise from their slumber, heard the birds’ melodic symphony, and watched nature come to life. I wasn’t disheartened that the moment had slipped through my fingers. Instead, I felt fortunate to have been there and to have witnessed the magic of that morning.
As I continued my day, I encountered other wonders of nature. I observed a beaver swimming through a culvert, effortlessly moving from one pond to another. I saw green teals in the distance, their wings beating gracefully. It struck me that sometimes it’s okay not to take a photograph but to take a mental picture, to soak in the beauty of the moment with all your senses.
So, the next time you find yourself in the presence of something extraordinary, consider petting the whale. Be fully present, engage with the moment, and don’t be afraid to leave your camera behind. The memories etched in your mind can be just as vivid as any photograph, and they come with the added bonus of being truly experienced. In a world of constant documentation, let’s remember to savor the joy of living in the moment.