Photo by Morten Albek. From his Shohin blog.
Miksang
Miksang is a contemplative approach photography that’s about “uncovering the truth of pure perception… without the biases, filters and formulas often associated with photography” (from The Miksang Institute for Contemplative Photography). It seems to me to be a both disciplined and spontaneous approach to photography and to seeing; simply seeing without projection, with an open and unbiased mind.
The photography of Morten Albek
I have long been impressed by Morten Albek’s bonsai photography. Whether his photos are the result of a Miksang approach, I can’t say for sure, though it’s easy to see that Morten has a good eye (Miksang means ‘good eye’). All the photos in this post are from Morten’s website or his blog.
From Morten’s recent Japan trip.
I don’t remember where I found this, but the photo is Morten’s.
Close up of Morten’s now somewhat famous Rhododendron lysolepsis.
From a bonsai display in Rome that Morten stumbled upon.
Another shot from Morten’s recent Japan trip.
Morten’s Shohin book (published by Stone Lantern). This photo is from Morten’s website and it’s a pretty safe guess that he took it.
I too have been impressed with Morten Albek’s trees and photography. I have a small collection of Shohin and Mame Bonsai trees and I know creating a beautiful tree in miniature takes a good eye and inspiration from nature. Morten’s photography is a reflection of his trees and his trees are a reflection of himself and his talent. Until you hold one of these trees in your hand it’s hard to appreciate the wonder and beauty that is created. These photographs are the next best thing to holding the tree in your hand. I would highly recommend Morten’s book.
Thank you for the post. Cheers!
Thanks Peter,
You’re hired!
-w
Thanks Wayne and Peter
I apreciate your kind comments about my pictures, and the very nice articel too. I actually didnt know I had this style (LOL).
I have my photographic practise with the documentary and news business for television for some years now, and I guess this style simply goes with me when photographing objects like bonsai i.e. I simply try to capture the moment with the light available, and bring out how I see and feel the scenery. Now I also have a name for my style … thanks, and a bit funny too.
Best wishes
Morten Albek
Hi Morten,
You photography has always impressed me, though I probably used ‘Miksang’ a little loosely. A friend who practices Miksang informed me that it’s an approach that involves particular view of seeing and photographing, and that without studying it, one is most likely not really doing it. None of this however, takes away from your talents.
Hi Morten,
I agree! Your photography is beautiful! I have admired your work for many years. It takes a good eye to see the beauty in nature and capture it on film. I especially enjoy your Shohin Bonsai and the beauty in your trees. I have learned much from your work.
Thank you!
All the Best in Healthy Happy Bonsai
Peter Shawinsky