In an age where smartphones are practically extensions of ourselves, the idea of living without one for an entire year is both intriguing and daunting. This concept is particularly interesting for photographers, who often rely heavily on technology for both their work and daily lives and who might need a break from all that.
Coming to you from WheezyWaiter, this video chronicles his journey of quitting his smartphone for a year, an experiment driven by the desire to escape the negative impacts of constant connectivity, like depression, sleep deprivation, and distraction. He replaces his smartphone with a simpler device, initially experiencing a mix of excitement and apprehension. Though he struggles at first, he eventually notes improved sleep, more focused thoughts, and a calmer mind. He finds himself engaging more with people and the environment, rather than being lost in the digital world. It encourages a deeper engagement with their surroundings, potentially leading to more authentic and creative captures.
However, the journey isn’t without its challenges. The limitations of the simpler phone become apparent, leading to a compromise—a minimalist iPhone approach, led by the need to find a balance between technology and simplicity. The right tools are necessary for efficient work, but over-reliance can stifle creativity and personal connection.
Ultimately, the video offers a nuanced perspective on our relationship with technology. It’s not about completely abandoning smartphones but using them in a way that enhances rather than detracts from life. Check it out to see if the experiment is right for you.
Interesting, but I find that mine is pretty much indispensable. The secret is to control the device, not let the device control you. Things like focus modes are important to use, especially for getting good sleep. Not using social media (Facebook, X, et al) also reduces distractions and other adverse impacts. It's my device, for my convenience, and I treat it as such.
Just as I wouldn't leave my front door wide open with a "Welcome! Come on in!" sign, why use a smartphone that way?
It's far too common to blame the tool for our own failings.
I know you're the only one who can see this Alex, but I only use mine for identification (bank accounts, etc.) and nothing else.
I was a late bloomer ... I got my first smartphone in 2018, years after they became the norm for everyday life. My only regret is that I didn't get a smartphone sooner, or that we didn't have them back in the 1980s when I was a teenager.
Smartphones have made my everyday life SO MUCH better.
WHY?
Because I spend anywhere from 3 to 7 months on the road each year. I mean weeks or months at a time road-tripping for wildlife photography. The smartphone gives me constant access to information that I need to make the most of my travel and my days afield.
When living on the road, up to the minute weather reports are invaluable, as are current highway conditions (winter snow & ice on mountain passes). Also invaluable is access to current wildlife sightings in a myriad of State Parks, National Parks, public beaches, nesting sites, and wildlife refuges. Hourly updates on ebird ensure that I do not miss an opportunity to see or photograph a truly rare species.
Recent posts on Instagram show me if a huge buck has broken his antlers or not. I mean, if I am going to Colorado specifically to photograph a certain buck deer with world-class antlers, and he gets into a fight with another buck and breaks off one of his antler tines, then I want to know about it so I can redirect myself and not waste time going to Colorado.
Conversely, if I see recent posts on Instagram and Facebook showing a rare animal, I can message the people posting these photos and get specific information, and then start driving for whatever part of the country that animal is in. Because of the smartphone, I will have up-to-the-minute information about such special photo opportunities, and be able to change my travel plans on the fly so that I can make the most of unexpected things that pop up.
I clearly remember life without a smartphone, and I do not want to go back to that life because I make much better use of my time and money now, because of the timely information that the smartphone gives me access to.
Not to mention emergency communications when out and about.
That is a good point!
But ..... won't a "regular" cell phone do that?
I mean voice calls and 911 calls and texting would be what I normally use for emergencies, and those are things that one does not need a smart phone for (as was so well explained in the video).
Some smartphones (iPhone 14 and 15, for example) have satellite emergency comms, which I don't believe "regular" cell phones have (apart from dedicated sat-phones). Useful when out of cell tower range.
No way. Mine gets used a ton for my business- site surveys, floor plans, drone, etc.
I use my Samsung phone for texting, messages, calendar, some personal photos and catch the news. I don't do social media on my phone or laptop. I don't play games on my phone.