Meaning: This quote by Walker Evans, a renowned American photographer, encapsulates the essence of photography as an art form and the unique way in which photographers engage with the world through their craft. Evans, known for his iconic photographs documenting American life during the Great Depression, offers a profound insight into the nature of photography and the mindset of a photographer.

In the quote, Evans suggests that the photographer, regardless of whether they consider themselves an artist, is a "joyous sensualist." This phrase implies that photographers experience and derive pleasure from their surroundings in a sensory and emotional manner. Unlike the rational and analytical mindset associated with thinking, the photographer's eye operates in the realm of feelings. This distinction is crucial in understanding the emotional and instinctive nature of photography.

Evans' assertion that "the eye traffics in feelings, not in thoughts" speaks to the idea that photography is fundamentally a visual medium that captures emotions, moods, and atmospheres rather than intellectual concepts. Through the act of seeing and framing the world through the lens, photographers are able to evoke and convey emotions, allowing viewers to connect with the captured moments on a visceral level.

As a pioneer of documentary photography, Evans' work often focused on portraying the everyday lives of ordinary people, showcasing the beauty and poetry found in the mundane. His statement reflects the idea that photographers, particularly those engaged in documentary or street photography, are attuned to the nuances of human experience and the emotional resonance of their surroundings. This sensitivity to the human condition and the power of visual storytelling is a hallmark of Evans' own work and has influenced generations of photographers.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the intrinsic pleasure that photographers derive from their practice. It emphasizes the joy and fulfillment that comes from engaging with the visual world, finding beauty in unexpected places, and capturing moments that resonate with the human experience. This joyous sensuality is integral to the act of photography, driving photographers to seek out compelling compositions, intriguing light, and authentic moments that stir the emotions of both the creator and the audience.

In the context of artistic expression, Evans' words underscore the idea that photography is a deeply personal and subjective pursuit. While some photographers may consciously approach their work with specific concepts or themes in mind, the act of seeing and capturing images is inherently rooted in emotion and intuition. This aligns with the notion that photography is as much about the photographer's unique perspective and emotional response to the world as it is about the subjects being photographed.

Overall, Walker Evans' quote encapsulates the essence of photography as a medium that transcends intellectual analysis and engages with the realm of emotions and sensory experiences. It illuminates the profound connection between the photographer's eye and the world it observes, emphasizing the joyous and sensual nature of photography as a deeply felt and instinctive form of expression. Through these insights, Evans provides a compelling perspective on the emotional and artistic dimensions of photography, inviting us to contemplate the profound impact of visual storytelling and the enduring power of the captured image.