Growing up, I was always the one getting made fun of on vacations or at family events for pulling out a camera. Older generations would tell me to "live in the moment," and while that matters, taking a photo is how I live in the moment. A photo gives a moment permanence. It does not disappear when the day ends. It lets memories live on, be revisited and felt again years later.

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But only if it is a good photo.

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If I am comfortable while taking a photo, it is probably not a great one. Through The Bark, I have learned that the best photojournalism happens outside your comfort zone. That usually means crouching on the floor, squeezing through people or getting closer than feels normal. It can be awkward, but distance kills real moments. With the right permission and a press pass, I get close. Inside classrooms. At rallies. During performances and protests. Wherever the story is actually happening.

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While getting close, it is just as important to stay respectful. Do not overstep boundaries at a sports game, dance recital or performance. Be polite. Bring good energy into the room. Smiling and being aware of the space you are in makes a difference. The journalism industry often deems neutrality as professionalism, but I believe there are exceptions. Encouraging people while they are in action can lift their confidence and the energy they bring into a photo.

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Before filming a series at a dance recital, I communicated with company members and staff about what to shoot and where to position myself. During the photoshoot, I praised and uplifted the dancers, which helped raise their confidence and energy on camera. A photographer's presence matters just as much as the camera.

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Technical choices matter too. Knowing your settings and presets can change a photo completely. Portrait mode works best for single subjects. Action settings are essential for sports and fast movement. Macro mode captures ultra-close details. Intention behind both technique and approach is what separates a snapshot from a story.

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In the end, strong photojournalism comes from courage, technical skill and the energy you bring into a space.