When 2020 began, I had high hopes. A new decade, fresh promise. After a great 2019, I believed the momentum would only carry forward. Instead, the years that followed brought challenges none of us expected: a global pandemic, loss and grief in many forms, economic upheaval, job loss, and so much uncertainty. Staying positive was hard. Yet, somehow, I've held on.

In 2025, while some crises persist, there are also moments of hope being born. Struggles with climate change, political division, conflict, and inequality continue to cast shadows. The Guardian+3unfoundation.org+3Diplomatic Watch+3But there are also reasons to believe-positive developments, communities pulling together, people using creativity and compassion to build something better. I've found, now more than ever, that photography offers a powerful way to see light amid darkness.


Why Photographs Matter More Now

Everyone has their way to unwind: painting, music, journaling, walks. For me, it's with a camera. I find that when I take pictures-flowers, city corners, landscapes-a creative realm opens up. Even during hard times, taking photographs helps me focus outside myself: on light, form, color, life. Research backs this up: when we're sad, we tend to notice more deeply what's around us; and when we intentionally look for beauty, it can pull us out of despair.

In recent years, as people everywhere face more hardship (economic stress, mental health challenges, war, climate disasters), the desire to escape, to heal, to renew has grown stronger. Photography and visual art are more than hobbies-they are therapy, resistance, hope.

Also, social media in 2025 is shifting-platforms and users are increasingly valuing positivity, empathy, inclusion. There's more focus on wellness, community, and authenticity online. Sharing uplifting images isn't just nice; it's a way to counteract negativity and build connection.

And globally, there are reasons for optimism:

  • Countries and communities are stepping up on climate pledges, pushing for sustainable practices.
  • Grassroots movements and global generosity are showing up. Charitable giving has increased in some places, and people are demanding accountability from their leaders.
  • Science, too, provides some comforting signs-forecasts suggest 2025 might avoid an El Niño event, which gives hope for slightly milder climate extremes compared to recent highs.


How Picture-Taking Lifts Us

Healing in the little things: A budding flower, a small act of kindness, laughter in a friend's eyes-these moments show up in photos and help remind us life is still full of beauty.

Perspective: When I'm feeling small or overwhelmed, getting outside with a camera helps me see the world from a different angle. The macro, the close-up, the expansive sky-these can shift what I feel inside.

Sharing hope: Positivity is contagious. When you share an image that lifts you-sunsets, animals, people helping people-you may never know whose heart you touch.


What We Need Now

Given everything going on in the world, I believe these things matter more than ever:

Intentional creativity: Make it a goal to do something creative each day, however small. Photograph something, draw, write, sing. It's not about perfection-it's about expression, release.

Seek positive visuals: On social media, in the news, in your camera roll-look for goodness. Follow creators who uplift. Save photos that calm you.

Share responsibly: When you share an image, think of its impact: will it bring joy, reflection, hope? Can it help someone else feel seen, less alone?


A New Quote

Here's something I thought recently, on a rough day-inspired by both the world's heaviness and its unexpected beauty:

"In the midst of storms-personal or global-I find the kindest therapy in seeing the world through a lens. With camera in hand, I reconnect to light, simplicity, and the promise that beauty still breathes."


If you're ever feeling weighed down by everything around you, I hope you turn to your creative outlet-maybe your camera, maybe a walk, maybe a poem. And when you need it, Google a photo of calm waters, bright flowers, or hands helping one another. The light is still there. Sometimes it just needs to be sought.


📸❤️🌻