Understanding Zenography: A Mindful Approach to Photography

Zenography is a term that was coined by the Japanese photographer, Daido Moriyama, to describe his own approach to photography. It is a blend of the words "zen" and "photography," and it refers to a way of photographing that is characterized by a sense of simplicity, directness, and a focus on the everyday.

In zenography, the photographer seeks to capture the world as it is, without embellishment or manipulation. The goal is not to create a specific message or narrative, but rather to simply document the world around us. This approach emphasizes the importance of the present moment, and the photographer's own subjective experience of the world.

Zenography is often associated with black-and-white photography, as this medium is seen as more conducive to capturing the subtleties of light and shadow. However, zenography can be applied to any type of photography, and it is not limited to a particular style or technique.

Overall, zenography is a way of approaching photography that emphasizes simplicity, directness, and a focus on the everyday. It is a way of seeing the world that is characterized by a sense of mindfulness and a willingness to let things be as they are.