Capturing today's moments so we can treasure as memories tomorrow - Aurora James Photography

"Photography is the art of the frozen time. The ability to store emotions and feelings within a frame" - Unknown

I remember once thinking to myself 'perhaps I should take up photography' but that along with the 'I should join a painting class' were but fleeting thoughts. I convinced myself I am better with words, this is how I experience the world and capture my emotions and feelings.

Others, like my dear friend Nikki, see the world through a lense. It's not just faces, landscapes and faked moments; she captures ones true essence - she sees your soul, like truly sees you. Not in a creepy dracula type way but more like the Na'vi in Avatar "oel ngati kame" - I see you. Which means when you see me you bring me into existence. I see the love and your soul. I am clearly a huge Avatar fan; and eagerly awaiting the promised sequels.

That is the type of photography I wish I had the talent for; being able to capture someone's true essence. None of the instagram poses and choreographed photographs of influencers, but just you in your moment being yourself. It takes someone with the skill, patience and love to do that. Nikki is amazing she gets you comfortable, chats to you like a friend would while catching up over coffee, but all through her lense.

In the frame below I'd like to say I was excited for a decent cup of coffee - but honestly I was just too shy too look up straight at the lense. At least I'm smiling!

Too shy to look up

Why am I so shy in front of a lense? I remember the first photoshoot I did, two years ago - The Depression Series with one of my friends, I was so nervous. Thinking to myself: What do others see when they look at me? Will the photo capture my nerves? Oh, what to do with my hands? My face? Smile with or without teeth showing? Which side is my better side? Oh, dont forget the double chin. The what? Yes, the double sometimes triple chin is the bane of my existence. Elongate they say, be a giraffe.

How does a panda become a giraffe? Ugh, it's usually (almost always) a nerve wrecking experience, it triggers my anxiety. However, Nikki got me so comfortable, told me to be myself because I am most beautiful when I don't try be anything but a goofy panda with anxiety.

I see you too Nikki!

I eventually looked up, coffee in hand and smiled. I'd like to do more of these and hopefully with @aurorajamesphotography. I need to be comfortable in my own skin, and love that goofy smile that's gotten me through everything life's thrown my way. Also, I must add that the Red Sofa Cafe in Vredehoek, is fast becoming my favourite coffee place. I'm there again at noon (dear stalker, jokes). Its got such a cool vibe and great coffee. Definitely my kind of spot; oh' how I will miss Cape Town!

#auroraphotography #captureonessoul #friendship #resofacafe #inspiration