Urban Kaleidoscope: Patterns & Perspective | Maximilian John | TEDxUniversitas Ciputra Surabaya

Key Concepts:

• Planning in photography and life
• Importance of different angles and perspectives
• Preparation as a manifestation of planning
• Revealing oneself through photography and actions
• Embracing negativity and developing into a better person
• Analogy of life as a camera

1. Introduction: The Fast-Paced World and Photography as a Remedy

Maximil John, a professional photographer, introduces a perspective on photography that deviates from technical aspects. He observes that modern life demands speed and instant results, bombarding individuals with information of questionable origin. This constant "noise" distracts from enjoying the process of daily activities. Photography, particularly analog photography, offers a way to slow down, feel more, and observe, engaging all senses and providing life lessons.

2. Lesson 1: Planning - From Photography to Life

• Photography Examples: John discusses two scenarios: well-planned photoshoots with specific concepts and spontaneous, aimless strolls. Regardless, he always plans beforehand, considering location, subject, and film type (in analog photography). Different films produce different results (e.g., black and white, yellow mood, natural tones), and even the same film can yield varying outcomes based on exposure.
• Life Application: This mirrors life, where plans sometimes succeed perfectly, and other times, they deviate. However, planning remains essential, prompting us to consider "what's next" in business, school, and daily schedules.
• Key Takeaway: Even in spontaneity, a degree of planning is always present.

3. Lesson 2: Angle - Seeing Through Different Perspectives

• Photography Application: Angle is crucial in photography. Different angles reveal different sides of a subject, making life more interesting when viewed from various perspectives.
• Real-World Application: Perceiving things from multiple angles is vital in real life. This includes understanding perspectives of clients (to deliver the best service), colleagues/partners (to understand community dynamics), and others. In Indonesia, this is called neten (view side).
• Argument: Understanding multiple angles is crucial in facing problems, as there are often more than two sides to a story.

4. Lesson 3: Preparation - Confidence and Maneuverability

• Preparation as a Manifestation of Planning: Preparation is the tangible realization of planning.
• Photography Context: Thorough preparation boosts confidence and mood, leading to better pictures.
• Life's Unpredictability: Despite best efforts, "bad weather" or uncontrollable events occur.
• Argument: Preparation is not useless in such situations. It allows for easier maneuvering when life takes unexpected turns.
• Quote: "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail."

5. Revealing Yourself - Beauty in Everything

• Photography as Self-Expression: Photographers reveal themselves through their artwork, conveying emotions and messages.
• Real-Life Parallels: Similarly, we reveal ourselves through decisions, business dealings, and how we treat others.
• Fear of Judgment: Many fear judgment and disapproval.
• Argument: Regardless of actions, positive or negative, people will always have opinions.
• Quote: "The beauty you see in everything is a reflection of beauty in you."
• Embracing Imperfection: Even blurry images can be beautiful if embraced.
• Call to Action: Be brave and positive.

6. Negatives and Development - Life as a Camera

• Analog Photography Process: In analog photography, negatives are developed to reveal the final image.
• Life Analogy: This mirrors life, where we accept and embrace negativity within and around us, developing it into something better.
• Quote: "Life is like a camera. Just focus on what's important and capture the good times. Develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, just take another shot."

7. Conclusion:

Maximil John uses photography as a lens through which to view life's challenges and opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of planning, considering multiple perspectives, preparing for the unexpected, embracing imperfections, and developing from negative experiences. The analogy of life as a camera provides a framework for focusing on the positive, learning from setbacks, and continuously striving for improvement.