Through a Mothers Eyes

Through a Mothers Eyes by Natalie Maddon

In my groggy, sleep deprived delirium I see more clearly than ever. Time is precious. Emotions are fleeting.

I don’t have the time to spend hours editing the emotion into my images. I can’t take hundreds of photos and mash together the ones that I like. I have to get it right the first time.

Preparation for going out to take photos no longer includes my three or four step checklist or a weekend whimsy. I have to plan weeks in advance.

My mind moves quite a bit more slowly than it did a few months ago. It’s like my brain was once a pinball machine with constant action, lights, and colors. I have been forced to slow down. I can lay for hours just studying the fine fuzz that covers the skin of my tiny little person. Each toe takes special consideration. I need to study and memorize every expression, every sound. I have noticed that all aspects of my life have taken on new meaning. I am in awe of the small things that I once never took the time to realize. I was in such a hurry to move on to the next shiny thing that could distract me for a minute. Finally, I can see clearly. I can appreciate the simplicity in life; the simplicity in an image. I can appreciate a photo for face value without having to add distraction.

Everyday is a new opportunity, a new challenge to seek out something fascinating. Some days that means exploring the unexplored. Some days that means just taking a second look to really see.