finding the photograph

I'm taking a class this semester called "Photography as Ecological Meditation". The basic format of the class goes like this: we read a meditation written by the professor on a particular topic, we go out and make photographs in response to the meditation, and then pick one to share with the class. Each class session is a slide show where everyone gets the chance to make comments about where the picture takes them. Then the photographer reveals her/himself and gives context and any personal feelings about the image. I like this a lot--it's giving me a chance to approach the emotional aspect of viewing photographs (instead of just the technical) and see some of the amazing work done by my classmates.

The ecological part is pretty flexible--referring broadly to our surrounding environment. So it doesn't have to be any specific kind of nature photograph. The picture above was for the first class--the theme was darkness (what I nice one to start with). Thankfully, the next one was light (balance is good).

It's been an interesting process for me to figure out how to go about making a photograph under these assignments. Do I brainstorm possible images and then go out and make the one that I think will be the best? Or do I go out and explore with my camera, putting on this new filter of a specific theme onto how I see? Do I just try to make what I think will be the coolest photograph that will impress the professor or have the most impact on the class?

This one I happened upon (while not specifically looking), though I saw it because when thinking of images about darkness (particularly personal darkness in the form of depression, something I've dealt with) tunnels were on my mind. Will finding themed projects like this spur my creative possibilities and help me make images I wouldn't have otherwise envisioned? It seems so, my friend. Sometimes structure is good, even for creativity.

By the way, don't worry about what it is, just let it speak for itself ; )