Letter From the Editor

“What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.” – Karl Lagerfeld, fashion designer/photographer

Dear readers,

These days it’s impossible to get through the waking hours without seeing a photograph of some sort. Portraits, candids and now “selfies” seem to be at our every turn. In fact, every day, 55 million photos are uploaded to Instagram. Think that’s incredible? According to Facebook, more than 302 million photos are uploaded to the site every 24 hours. That’s a lot of visual stimulation… kinda’ makes me wonder why people are taking so many pictures.

There is one obvious reason – the rapid popularity of smartphones, which give us a portable camera ready at any moment, for any pose or any creative impulse. But there’s more to it than that.

For many, photography is an emotional investment. It allows us to showcase our families and immortalize our children. The images we create with our lenses have special meaning and without these pictures, we wouldn’t be able to remember those times and the beauty they brought us in life.

Photography also helps to create a permanent imprint of our travels, especially when we never plan to go back to those magical places we’ve been. Photographs allow us to return to the moment and immediately evoke emotions of a monumental experience like reaching the summit of Mt. Everest. They help to awaken our senses and bring us back to that morning when the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries filled the streets of Venice.

At Marketplace we have a huge appreciation for photography. That’s why we created Snapshot, a gallery where photographers (professional, hobbyists or novices) can share their work with the rest of the Lehigh Valley. We would love to showcase your memories… ones that will make us smile, laugh, cry, be amazed or simply enjoy the splendor of the Lehigh Valley. Our only requirement is all submitted photos must be taken with the Lehigh Valley. Turn to page 90 to find out how to send us your photos.

I know there is so much beauty and wonder in the Valley; I can’t wait to see it through your eyes.

Best regards,

Amy

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