The trinity of photography
About 40 years ago I heard a really smart guy explain the trinity of God (one in essence, three in persons) by using the three properties of light. It was, and still is, the best analogy I’ve ever heard. The three properties are; actinic, luminiferous, and calorific, and it goes like this.
1 – Actinic is a ray of light that is neither seen nor felt, a perfect illustration of God the Father.
2 – Luminiferous light is light produced as a result of heat. Luminiferous light is both seen and felt, a perfect illustration of God the Son.
3 – Calorific light is light converted into heat. Calorific light is not seen but felt, a perfect illustration of God the Holy Spirit.
As a believer (and photographer) that makes sense to me. But, what does it have to do with the “trinity of photography?”
Throughout my years of making photographs I’ve tried to apply the same principles. Here’s how it works.
Actinic – whether it’s an art fair or exhibit, we always have people come up to us and share their appreciation for our work. When asked what it is about the image that draws them in, they can’t really explain it. “There’s just something about it,” they say.
Luminiferous – some people will definitely say that they can see and feel the effects the image has on them. They are drawn in visually and emotionally.
Calorific – and for other people, it’s not necessarily about the aesthetics or visual content, rather it’s the emotion and story behind the image that makes them feel something or connect with their own story.
As you go about viewing my work, I hope you come away with a sense of the “trinity” in my photography. There are things about some of my images that I can’t fully explain by sight or feeling. Most of them I see and feel. Others simply move me emotionally because they portray a portion of my own story. But, hopefully, all of them point to the essence of the One.
If you would like to hear more about how the trinity of photography can inspire your team, group, or church – give me a shout. My presentations can be customized for any type of gathering.
