Capturing Dreams Through the Lens: A Photographer’s Journey

Thierry Maindrault’s Monthly Reflections

The years pass by, bearing resemblance to one another. The years proceed yet are distinct. Each individual envisions their future in varied ways, determined by their nature. Then there are those who hold dreadful agreements, often supporters of either side, who find comfort in the mediocrity of a splash of water mingled with a splash of wine. Consequently, the finest concepts and promising innovations become hopelessly enmeshed due to a lack of forward-thinking assessments. Our communities have yet to grasp that natural reality demands determinism to maintain its equilibrium. Every evolution, every advancement, every discovery invariably produces both advantages and detriments; it is the fundamental nature of existence.

As photographer-actors, our position is quite unique and not always easy. We have collectively taken the initiative to report, either objectively or subjectively, on the developments concerning our magnificent natural surroundings (in the broadest of interpretations) as well as the detrimental effects stemming from the advancement of human knowledge. Simultaneously, we find ourselves among the foremost, technically engaged, in this dual transformation that increasingly imposes friction. Clearly, at a specific moment, accepting the current situation becomes exceedingly challenging; many find themselves devoid of resources. Technical, economic, and societal circumstances lead to a disruption in the flow of knowledge, curiosity, and creativity. However, regardless of the transformations, evolutions, or revolutions, the image remains steadfast (an interpretation by the mind). It endures as an image, preserving the essential means of communication between one brain (the creator) and another (the observer), via a medium. Our photography has had the duration of two centuries to assert its capacity to secure a vital, undeniable, and lasting position in the realm of artistic documentation.

It is not an option to surrender and mourn, for our creative passions are embedded within us. We have to possess the ability to dream in order to conceive of the future. If our genuine images are all birthed from a dream, either premeditated or spontaneous, our imaginative capabilities must likewise anticipate the future for humanity, and the future for photographers.

So let’s dream, a little, a lot, and beyond.

Today, might our primary aspiration be to restore certain tools to their intended functions and eliminate their inappropriate uses? If the expansive web were to rediscover its original purpose as a network of multidirectional pathways. A communication and sharing instrument that fosters creativity without devolving into a lifestyle for an uninformed mass. The transmission of images between two responsible parties.

And then, let’s also envision our images, with secure access, definitively outside these all-powerful and ever-present hubs that more closely resemble gigantic refuse bins where anything can be discovered, in the form of very delicate polarity. Currently, technology permits everyone to securely retain their work at home and to transmit it, prudently, without corrupting it. Have you considered that what functions (relatively effectively) for your taxes could also apply to our photographs?

The third dream, quite naturally, follows suit. The substantial savings resulting from the removal of this sprawling web. Contrary to the claims of the well-meaning advocates, the current situation proves perilous for the future. It becomes apparent that the adage “nothing is created, nothing is lost,” might lead us to believe that the colossal fortunes being amassed would emerge from the depths of the universe to enrich a few audacious individuals. This is not the reality. These riches are derived from the mass of users and the resources of our planet. The energy consumption needed to rake in billions is staggering. The appropriation of knowledge, rights, and the labor of others fills their coffers. Each time one of us uploads a photograph to a platform to which they do not hold complete rights, they bolster the wealth of the magnates. Everyone is free to act without realizing they are severing the branch that supports them—and their colleagues who rejected this course of action. Thus, let us dream that branches are no longer foolishly pruned.

I envision a time when all these parasitic and budget-consuming organizations that dispense a few meager crumbs of so-called collective rights will allocate less funding to their own lifestyles. They must demand rights commensurate with the true uses, referred to as collective, of our images (most frequently pilfered), and distribute a guaranteed percentage back to the creators (those who utilize their intellect). And do we truly need a plethora of entities collecting/distributing rights across each country? Technological tools could facilitate a singular and fair management of all rights, amalgamating various forms of human creation.

Lastly, the exquisite and ultimate dream for this year. The termination of access to and the theft, with complete impunity, of all our works stored, with or without our consent, in the redundant pathways of the internet beast. This blatant looting, lacking authorization, to manipulate machines for the purpose of indoctrinating vast populations, feels like the most urgent matter for the good fairy presiding over this new year. Binary creation is merely manipulation, devoid of an ounce of intelligence; except for that of the programmers who bring it into existence for their own benefit. Will we yet again transform an exceptional promising tool into a nightmare for the majority?

My most sincere hopes for each of you this year concerning all your dreams!

Thierry Maindrault, January 10, 2025

your feedback regarding this chronicle and its photography is always appreciated at
[email protected]