Very evocative take from the study of shadows. Please accept my felicitations. May I share a thought that more than being mere pointers towards or representing empty space, shadows be taken as pointers toward the source of light. Taking a cue from the Vedic philosophy, I’d look at a shadow as personification of “tamso ma jyotirgamaya” which is a prayer meaning that “lead us from darkness to light.” To me a shadow is an exhortation to proceed towards the source of light besides being an assurance that light is just around the corner somewhere very close by.
Wonderful! I was just reading about light sources and how the light source impacts the size and depth of shadows. You can learn so much about the light source in an image based on the qualities of the shadows. Thank you for sharing your inspiring thoughts.
Very evocative take from the study of shadows. Please accept my felicitations. May I share a thought that more than being mere pointers towards or representing empty space, shadows be taken as pointers toward the source of light. Taking a cue from the Vedic philosophy, I’d look at a shadow as personification of “tamso ma jyotirgamaya” which is a prayer meaning that “lead us from darkness to light.” To me a shadow is an exhortation to proceed towards the source of light besides being an assurance that light is just around the corner somewhere very close by.
Wonderful viewpoint Dr Vidur and reminder of the prayer we are all aware of. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Wonderful! I was just reading about light sources and how the light source impacts the size and depth of shadows. You can learn so much about the light source in an image based on the qualities of the shadows. Thank you for sharing your inspiring thoughts.
Absolutely Chuck. Light and shadows are interlinked and connected in beautiful ways. Thank you for pointing this out!
Lately I’ve been exploring the idea liminal space and Ma sounds like a companion concept. Thanks for introducing me to it!
I love your astute observation of how shadows aren’t exact representations—that they stretch and distort.
Lovely images and congrats on making Substack weekender!!
Karin thanks so much for engaging with my post and for your comment. The Japanese concept of Ma really fascinates me.
There are graphic, minimal and storytelling images here. Each image has a special uniqueness to it. Kudos to your time in making these photographs.
Thank you so much. These images have been taken over a period of time and I have absolutely loved the process.
Wonderful!
I LOVE that staircase image!
Joe thanks so much!!
Lovely stuff!! Thank you.
Thanks much Soren. I appreciate it.
Wonderful collection of photos, Shital. That spiral staircase image is fantastic. Have a great weekend!
You too Mark and thanks so much. It’s my favourite one too!
I love this. Your photos are, of course, beautiful, and we share similar styles in seeing and capturing shadows. Lovely essay as well.
Glenn thanks so much. Glad you like the images!
There are so many wonderful shadow photos here!
Thanks much Sheryl.
I love this: “Ma isn’t merely empty space; it’s a purposeful silence that enriches what exists.”
Purposeful silence is such a beautiful expression!
Yes, Ma is a powerful concept and a beautiful one for that matter. Thanks so much Manuela
Loved the pictures and the story you conveyed through them. Great work.
Thanks very much!
So beautiful! I identify a lot with shadows too. Lovely!
Thanks much Mukta!
Lovely photos. The photo of the spiral ironwork stairs is particularly lovely, the shadows there are wonderful.
Thank you so much Juliet. That staircase photo is special!
Enjoyed - truly love the staircase photo !
Thanks so much Lori!
Great observations, Shital! I am always fascinated by the play of light or shadow.
Thanks much Susanne. The interplay of shadow and light is mesmerising!
This is a wonderful set of images Shital - such beautiful colours- alongside insightful reflections on shadow and light.
Thanks so much Lin.