Capturing Lee Medicine
Each image tells a story, and together they reveal something greater – a glimpse into the creative life of the Lee Medicine community.
The Lee Medicine photography interest group is more than just a space for individuals to showcase their photography skills. Founded in 2013, it’s a vibrant community that bridges the busy lives of Lee Med staff, faculty and students through the shared language of photography. From those new to the craft to seasoned photographers, the group welcomes all levels of experience and offers a place to connect over something as simple, yet profound, as capturing a moment in time.
As one member shared, “It helps me feel part of the Lee Med community, not on a work level, but more on a personal level.” This sentiment echoes the core of the group’s mission: to create a space where people can share their lives and passions beyond their professional roles.
“The photos allow us to broadcast our other lives outside of Lee Med,” says another. Whether it’s capturing the beauty of nature or the charm of the holiday season, this group provides an outlet for creativity and a reminder of the world outside the walls of the medical building.
The gallery itself has become a fixture of the sense of connection members share. Walking through the halls of Lee Med, one can’t help but notice the array of photos on display, each telling a different story and different perspective. As one member puts it, “Photography is a way of seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. It helps me understand others better – what’s important to them, what they care about. When I share my photos, I’m simply saying, ‘This moment caught my eye. I found it beautiful. I hope you do too.’” They added, “I believe photography is a powerful tool for cultivating empathy.”
These photos do more than just decorate the walls – they spark conversions, create connections and serve as a reminder that everyone in the building has their own unique stories to tell.
Photography, in many ways, complements the work they do in medicine and science. While their research and practice focus on the systematic study of the world, photography allows them to capture and express the fleeting moments that often go unnoticed.
One faculty member shared, “Perhaps leisure photography is an extension of my longtime interest in research, as an investigator makes observations about nature and then shares those observations with others.” In both fields the goal is the same – to observe, document and share findings in ways that foster deeper understanding. However, what sets photography apart is its ability to inspire more spontaneous, less structured interactions. “Thankfully, we don’t encounter scathing reviews of our leisure photos from the Lee Med community. Clearly the photography interest group participation is much less stressful than science,” they added.
The group’s monthly themes have also encouraged members to think creatively and expand their comfort zones. Some themes challenge participants to explore new subjects or push the boundaries of their usual style, while others provide a more reflective or nostalgic look at familiar topics. Importantly, it offers a needed break from the fast-paced world of medicine. As another staff member pointed out, “Being creative can be a great outlet for stress relief and helps to keep you balanced in your life.”
For anyone unsure about joining or submitting their work, the group is a welcoming environment where everyone can participate, learn and grow. One member offered this: “If you love photography, don’t hesitate to join the group and share your work. It’s a welcoming and supportive community, and you’ll feel at home right away.”
So, the next time you’re walking the halls of Lee Med, slow down. Look around. You might just see something that reminds you to stop, observe, and capture your own moment in time.
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