Returning to a Documentarian Lifestyle

Documentarian

Noun

1. A photographer specializing in producing a factual record.

   • a director or producer of documentaries.

2. An expert analyst of historical documents.

   Oxford Dictionary

As 2025 approaches, I’m making a conscious effort to return to a documentarian way of life, combining the simplicity of cycling, the convenience of audio journaling, and the discipline of documenting my creative journey. Here’s how this shift is reshaping my approach to life, work, and filmmaking.

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Cycling as an Accessible Exercise Routine

Earlier this year, in May, I started cycling around the city (of New York) after beginning my job at Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side. What began as a practical solution for commuting has become a foundational element of my routine.

• The Original Plan: Ride consistently all year, whether to work, to the train, or around the city on days off as a “low intensity” approach to getting in shape.

• Progress So Far: Over 500 miles ridden in 2024 primarily on e-bikes, making exercise manageable without overcomplication.

• Unexpected Discoveries: Today’s ride led me to the annual holiday market on 14th Street, which I hadn’t visited since 2017-2018.

• Future Plans: I’m aiming to take part in the NYC Bike Marathon in May 2025. I recently thrifted a 7-speed bike (for $50 🤯) and can’t wait to fix it up and start training.

Cycling has been an easy and enjoyable way to maintain physical health while reconnecting with the city I call home.

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Embracing Audio Journaling Over Traditional Writing

For over a decade, journaling was my go-to for documenting thoughts and ideas. But with the fast-paced nature of modern life, I’ve transitioned to audio journaling as a quicker and more efficient alternative.

Why Audio Works:

• Faster than writing and allows for more spontaneous expression.

• Simple to record using the iPhone’s voice memo app, with seamless transcription options.

• Easier to revisit and edit compared to handwritten journals.

The Tools:

• A lavalier mic attached to my phone for improved audio quality.

• GenAi to do some of the heavy lifting editing transcripts.

• Allowing me to rerecord refined versions of my audio entries. Just like the one you’re hearing now.

This approach has reinvigorated my commitment to capturing ideas in the moment, whether at home or on the go.

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The Shift Toward a Documentarian Lifestyle

As I reflect on my creative goals, I realize the importance of fully embracing a documentarian mindset in 2025.

What This Looks Like:

• Capturing audio and visual content regularly.

• Taking photographs and short video clips to build a portfolio of ideas.

• Learning the art of editing and understanding how different elements come together to tell a story.

Why It Matters:

• Documenting my journey is both a personal and professional goal as I transition from still photography into filmmaking.

• Developing skills like shot composition, editing, and storytelling, even on a small budget, is key to building my creative career.

This commitment to documenting not only captures my thoughts but also lays the foundation for my future as a filmmaker.

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A Glimpse Into the Future

With these habits in place, 2025 will mark a new chapter in my creative journey. By blending cycling, audio journaling, and a return to storytelling, I’m embracing a lifestyle that supports personal growth and creative expression.

If you’re curious about this journey, stay tuned for more updates, podcasts, and visual projects as I take the next steps in building my career in film. Let’s document, share, and grow together.

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Join the Journey

If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your own creative routines, cycling adventures, or storytelling ideas in the comments. And don’t forget to subscribe for more updates on this exciting journey into 2025!

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