Why My Favorite Photos Stay Offline

I've never posted my favorite photos online. Nope, it's not because I'm trying to hide them or that they're embarrassing. And don't think for a second that it's because I'm afraid of criticism. Anyone who wants to see these shots can; they just have to ask me when we're face-to-face. Why? Well, these photos are more than just amazing pictures to me.

Each of my favorite shots has a story behind it, and that story is a memory I hold dearly. Maybe it's a photo from a challenging 4am hike I took to capture a stunning sunrise while encountering wild animals. Or perhaps it's a candid moment of someone I just care about. It's not just about the image; it's about what went into creating that image—the adventure, the people, the emotions—all of it.

I could easily slap a long caption on Instagram or write a detailed description on my website, but let's be honest, it just wouldn't be the same. The thing is, when you share stories in person, a whole lot more comes into play. It's the expressions that cross our faces as we speak, the tone of our voices, the simple joy of sharing a story with someone and knowing they're as caught up in it as you are. All of these little things build up an experience that text on a screen can't replace.

We've all been there—you've got great news, and instead of sending a quick text, you pick up the phone and call. Why? Because you want to hear the emotion in the other person's voice. You want to share that electric feeling of excitement or happiness. Well, the same goes for my photos and the stories behind them.

So, my favorite shots stay offline, saved for those in-person conversations that are full of life and feeling. When we talk face-to-face, it's about more than just sharing a photo or a story; it's about sharing an experience. And to me, that's worth more than a thousand likes on social media.

In the end, my favorite photos might not be on your feed, but they're far from hidden. They're reserved for those real-life, one-on-one interactions that make us feel more connected, more human. And honestly, isn't that something we could all use a little more of these days?