The Shutter of a Camera Matters Because You Press It Yourself


I went to a photo studio to take some pictures of myself.

As expected from a professional photographer, they snapped away with a full-frame Canon. When I saw the results, I was so impressed by how beautiful they were that I couldn’t help but feel moved.

You just can’t get this kind of quality with my smartphone. Of course, I know the camera’s capabilities are different, and it’s not easy technically.

When I visit tourist spots, I bet professionals can capture stunning photos. I felt a bit envious of that.

But then it hit me.

The reason I take photos isn’t just to capture “beauty.” It’s to capture the world as I see it.

I’m sure I’m not alone in this. I think many people can relate.

These days, with image-generating AI, anyone can create “beautiful images.” But what meaning do those AI-generated scenes really have?

Even if the composition isn’t perfect,
or the exposure is off,
or there’s a little blur.

The value lies in the moment when I pressed the shutter, filled with my emotions.

The other day, I saw someone on a plane enthusiastically taking pictures out the window.

A person taking a picture out of an airplane window

I thought to myself, this person is probably trying to capture their own view of the world.

Inspired by that, after I got off the plane, I took some photos of the terminal at Changi International Airport with my smartphone. It was such a bright and pleasant space.

Changi International Airport

The shutter matters because you press it yourself.