Archetypal Photography defines itself in many ways. It may be perceived as an attempt to capture a quintessential place or feeling.  It may be a capturing of a universal moment in time.  It may be the unique internal embodiment of the photographer.  One must also consider the subtle space the photographer was inhabiting, and what feelings they were experiencing when the image was  recognized and realized by the shutter’s release.

Additionally, Archetypal Photography may be distinguished by the viewer as an original experience of interacting with the image itself. There is a meaning the viewer derives and attributes within themselves, whether consciously or unconsciously.  In conjunction with this personal interaction, the image inherently brings the viewer to a universal place among moments. 

In any given life there are internal experiences shared by all:  joy, fear, inspiration, desolation, connection, solitude, purpose, and loss to name a few. Questions arise then as to how does an image resonate within a particular individual?  Or, what memories and visions does it stimulate?

Each of us, in our own ways faces challenges of daily life.  We cycle through the daily flow of our routines and responsibilities, all of which reiterate structures that either enhance or limit our bigger visions.  Dreams shape shift with shadows as the stories of our lives unfold, and in that unfolding we twist and turn with the changing times.  In this process there is often a sense of remembering a different way of being in the world.  Vibrancy may fade if we begin to feel distant from our core Self, and from a time when we felt more connected to our Source.

When we encounter an image that speaks to our core Self, it presents as a message from beyond our daily life, to remind us, to encourage us, and to bring us home to ourselves. In that presence, the message we infer is a gift.  For in our remembering, we have honored the treasure that is our legacy, our original spark. If we would but allow such moments of inspiration to weave through the constancy of our habits, we would be changed.

As we welcome novelty in the variegated skein of time and space, the colors of wonderment fill our minds and awaken our perceptions. In so doing, we say "Yes" to the call to universal awareness, and we thereby raise not only our individual consciousness, but that of the collective as well.

Archetypal Photography ultimately must look deeper than the reflection of object or subject, and embrace the reality of both.