I think we can all agree that technology is quickly dominating this world as we know it. Our day to day lives are almost never lived without at least one text or notification from social media. It's not entirely bad, though. In many ways technology is helpful. It makes communication quicker, and easier, and it makes important information more readily available. Not just that, but it also makes things possible that were previously seen as impossible. Communication is majorly influenced by technology but so are memories.

When you think about your favorite memory, what comes to your mind? Do you remember how that night made you feel? Do you picture the moment at a stand still, smiles still alive on the faces of the people around you? You might have a photograph of this moment by your bed and you might have videos on your phone. But maybe the memory is your favorite because you were able to live in that moment completely unattached to any cameras or phones. Just. Living.

Technology is so enveloping that we don't even realize how totally addicted we've become. When an amazing moment occurs, It's written and published for the internet and usually it's tied in with a photo or video of the event. Though being able to take photographs and videos of something is a great way to view the world and to be able to share what you've seen with others, in a way it sort of takes the photographer out of the moment. There's a professor at my college who often says, "Putting a camera in front of your eyes is a powerful act."

Photos are amazing ways to share sights, but not feelings. The only way to truly appreciate the thing you're seeing is to be able to have been there to experience it for yourself. Being able to determine when to take photos and when to sit and just live in the moment is imperative to learning how to adapt in this world where technology is increasingly dominant.

When you look back on the memories where you were the photographer, you might only be able to remember how it looked. You might even feel a little distant when thinking about that moment in time. So take my advice now by pausing and live in the moment. You'll thank me later when you look back and remember how it made you feel.