I’m learning to see – colors, shapes, the geometry of nature, the constant birthing and dying in front of me and in me – and learning to reflect this vision in my photographs. The practice of picking up my camera opens my eyes.  What a joyful discovery!

Photography has been a part of my life for many, many years, as has meditating in the Buddhist tradition.  In the late 1990’s, I noticed that these two practices were beginning to mirror one another.  This especially seemed true during the weeks each year that I would spend in solo retreat.  My photographs were evolving, reflecting in the silence of retreat the quieting and settling of my mind.  

More recently I have begun photographing and teaching in the contemplative Shambhala Miksang tradition.  This path offers vision, ground and language for my practice of photography.

So what is contemplative photography?  For me, it's slowing down enough to notice, to really see what is in front of me. Later, viewing the image, I often notice that it triggers emotions – sadness, appreciation, quiet excitement, joy, a sense of becoming. A good photo is an adventure in softening, in opening, in letting the world touch me.

Jake Lorfing

goslow@sbcglobal.net

Whatever arises is fresh,

the essence of realization.

–Pengar Jampal Zangpo

Said the night wind to

the little lamb
Do you see what I see?

         – Noel Regney

Those in a hurry

do not arrive.

             -  Zen saying