As photographers, our work often goes beyond simply capturing moments. We’re storytellers, communicators, and interpreters of the world around us. In this image taken from the comforts of my den, the iconic three wise monkeys—“see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”—offer a profound reminder of how we engage with the art of photography and the world itself.

See No Evil: The Power of Vision

Photography is about what we see, but it’s also about what we choose not to see. “See no evil” could be interpreted as avoiding the distractions or negativity that can cloud our creative vision. As artists, it’s crucial to focus on the beauty, the meaning, and the significance of the subject, rather than being overwhelmed by the imperfections or the noise that surrounds it.

In photography, training the eye to look for the essence of a scene or a subject is critical. It’s about seeing the good, the light, and the composition that others might overlook. Just as the monkey covers its eyes, sometimes we need to turn a blind eye to trends or conventions and see the world through our unique lens.

Hear No Evil: Listening to Your Own Voice

“Hear no evil” reminds us to avoid being too influenced by outside noise—the voices that say what we should photograph, how we should shoot, or what is deemed popular or successful. Photography is deeply personal, and each frame tells a story through the photographer’s perspective.

As creatives, we must sometimes block out the chatter, the criticisms, and even the well-intentioned advice that can steer us away from our own vision. Photography is about finding your own voice and style, not just mimicking what others are doing.

Speak No Evil: The Art of Expression

“Speak no evil” in photography might remind us that our art speaks for itself. Photography is a universal language, and sometimes words aren’t needed to communicate what we feel or want to convey. Each photograph you create tells a story, captures an emotion, or reflects a part of your own perspective without saying a word.

It also reminds us to be intentional with what we say through our art. As photographers, we have the power to influence, inspire, and evoke reactions. The images we produce can raise awareness, spark joy, or challenge perceptions, and so we should approach this power with care and responsibility.

Conclusion: A Thoughtful Approach to Photography

Ultimately, the image of the three wise monkeys is a reminder that photography, like all art, is about balance—knowing when to see, hear, and speak, but also knowing when to block out distractions and trust your instincts. As you continue on your photographic journey, let these wise figures remind you to stay focused on your vision, trust your voice, and let your art speak for itself.