A Spot That Calls Me Back

by Sharmaine Khacy A. De Guzman | BAJ 2-2N

A Spot That Calls Me Back

by Sharmaine Khacy A. De Guzman | BAJ 2-2N

I didn’t realize how hard it would be to find the perfect subject. I only had one free afternoon to catch the golden hour, and I knew I had to make it count. Life has been busy lately, and this was my only shot. Once I stepped outside, everything felt overwhelming. So many things caught my eye, but none of them truly sparked something. Ideas started flooding my head, but debating which one to choose took more time than I expected. I kept walking around, hoping something would stand out.

The pressure started to creep in. I was running out of time, the golden hour only lasts for a short while. Then, without really noticing, my feet led me somewhere familiar. I found myself at a church.

There it was, on the rooftop of Gateway Mall in Cubao, surrounded by tall buildings, a quiet, beautiful place of worship stood. It wasn’t the first time I found myself there. Every time I feel overwhelmed or emotional, this has always been my go-to spot. I remember going there just to sit in silence and reflect on life in general. It was just the right subject.

The sun was beginning to set, and its soft, golden, gentle light surrounded the church. Suddenly, I stopped overthinking. I pulled out my camera and just took the shots. I felt calm. It was like everything just fell into place. I didn’t need the most unique or perfect subject, I just needed something real.

What I learned is that photography isn’t just about the light hitting the right object. It’s about what the light means to you. That moment reminded me that inspiration doesn’t always come from searching hard. Sometimes, it’s already with you. You just have to pause, look around, and see it.

Waiting for the golden hour taught me the value of slowing down. It’s easy to get caught up in finding the perfect scene or idea, but the truth is, beauty already exists in the places we return to the most. Sometimes, the light doesn’t just guide your shot, it guides you back to yourself.

Photo taken: May 21, 2025

Location: Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City