ERIC KIM

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Black-White.m4a

PDF: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Black-White-4.pdf

# Black & White: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/22/black-white-vlog/

Add more extreme contrast to your life:

Man is black, woman is white? 

## Increasing contrast?

I’m starting to think that if we apply the black-and-white art photography aesthetic to real life, maybe the idea of “preserving the midtones“ is a bit boring.

The general notion of [crushing the blacks](https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/22/eric-kim-crush-the-blacks/) is when you’re processing or post processing your photos, you dragged the black slider all the way to 100, and you also crank up the contrast to 100.

Aesthetically, I think this makes for much more striking and interesting images.

First, midtones are boring. Almost universally, the more you increase the contrast of something or the photos, the better.

For example, even when we design our homes. What is the best way to design a home? Very very simple, use white and black accents.

For example in my eyes, the ideal home exterior paint color is not a matte black, but rather, a pure clean white, with black trimming.

Also, with cars… I think we’ve discovered is the apex is both a shiny white with shiny black accents -- gloss, not matte.

I think matte, matte black, the whole matte aesthetic is centered around jet stealth fighters, which desire to escape enemy detection. So typically when you try to matte black your car and murder it out… aesthetic you’re going for stealth bomber, or jet fighter aesthetic?

But the irony that I find… nobody would ever matte black or murder out their Prius, to escape detection from the police or the other party. We typically do it to our sports cars, our Teslas, etc. 

Put the strange inconsistency I see here is on one hand, we want to be seen and to show up, on the other hand, we want to be fake low-key, and be “humble”?

## Bitch be humble?

A few years back, the song HUMBLE by Kendrick Lamar went triple maxi viral. It was the most viral song of all time, maybe even more viral than the recent “They Not Like Us” song.

The song was very bizarre to me. Because I’m not sure what Kendrick was really trying to say. Two interpretations --

1. First, he is calling the counterparty a bitch, and telling them to sit down and be humble because I am so much greater than you

2. Or, trying to remind everybody to be humble in general.

But the weird inconsistency in modern day life is we are centered around Christian [Jesus](https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/22/eric-kim-on-jesus/) ethics, or some sort of quaker Protestant morality which is centered around notion of humility, being humble, close to the ground etc. This is why you will never ever ever meet a rich person in America called themselves rich, they will call themselves “fortunate“, or “lucky”.

Also another bizarre thing in the world of bodybuilding… you almost never ever ever see bodybuilders proud to flex unabashedly, like Arnold in the documentary *Pumping Iron*, back in the day. It is very uncommon for you to see self-confident men at the gym, working out topless, in booty shorts, 3 inch short shorts, flexing their muscles in the mirror, not trying to hide it etc.

The big issue with the typical bodybuilder is that they are trying to become dominant, but be humble about it? Really weird?

PDF: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Godlike-Legs-7-1.pdf

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Godlike-Legs.m4a

Godlike Legs

The power is in your legs?

So there is this philosophy and story about Milo of Croton, who is this semi mythical character who essentially was the strongest man of all time, and there is this anecdote that every single day he cared this calf on his shoulders, every single day, until it became a full-size bull, which could weigh anywhere between 1000 pounds and 3000 pounds.

For the most part it seems like a high tale, but, it might be more realistic than we think it is. 

First, I have successfully lifted 1000 pounds, which means that physically and physiologically, certainly this is possible. And I am not a 7 foot tall freak of nature.

So if I think about it… And certainly obviously this was far before steroids were invented… In theory, I think this might be somewhat true.

As a very very simple thought experiment, let us assume that you could conservatively add 5 pounds, week over week, which is roughly 250 pounds a year. That means within four years, you should be able to successfully lift 1000 pounds. And then the next year, 1250 pounds, 1500 pounds, and then two years after that, 2000 pounds.

Once again, difficult to lift 1000 pounds overnight but, even if you’re conservative… Let us say that you start training at the age of 21, for 10 years straight, until the age of 31, or until the age of 36… Lifting 1000 pounds is actually pretty easy.

The technique is my infamous Atlas lift; in which you just load up the barbell, with maximum weight, on the squat rack, and your goal isn’t too walk it out and squat it, rather to simply lift it off the rack for even half a second.

Even now, if you look at the strong men, obviously they’re all on steroids, but still… When they do the loaded yoke walk, it is on average around 1500 pounds. And only that but I think they reset for about 100m or so?

It is my personal thought that if you have insanely strong legs, nothing will falter in your life.

In fact, ultimately when it comes down to it… What is the most critical part of your body? Not your shoulders, not your back, not your biceps, not your chest, not your abdominal muscles… Your legs!

Let us consider the fact… I have never done to sit up in my life, yet I have a six pack. How?… If you’re strong enough to have to lift an insanely high and heavy weight, your body must naturally adapt, naturally strengthening all the random muscles in your body, your neck your shoulders your back, your upper back your lower back, your abs, your hips your knees etc.

In fact, something that nobody ever talks about is a strength of your ligaments, your tendons, etc. Having met real UFC MMA fighters in the flesh, the thing they actually taught me was surprisingly the most important thing to train for is to strengthen the ligaments in the wrist, the knees, ankles, etc.… Because that is where injury typically happens. And there’s also this notion of “pre-hab”– the idea that a true elite fighter would train in such a way that he is doing all the exercises in which individuals typically do when they are injured, but they train before they actually get injured, a wise idea. 

Do rehab styled exercises BEFORE you treat injured.

Milo of CrotonProgressive overload trainingWhy?

Diversion? https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/18/sports-set-yourself-free/

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/SPORTS.m4a

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# NEVER SIT

What is the weirdest and most bizarre thing in modern-day life? Enclosed spaces, sitting?

## Achilles

One visual I really like from the movie *Troy*, with Brad Pitt as Achilles, is when he’s in his little hut, sleeping with his beautiful babes, and he’s woken up by the kid who tells him that he needs to fight this really steroided-out barbarian fighter.

The first thought… I think the reason why people love camping so much is that it is far more natural and naturalistic; essentially, all day, you’re outside, and even in the evening, you’re al fresco by the fire… hanging out!

And this is the bizarre thing… what is modernity? The *preference* to be indoors, with weakening air conditioning, or the preference to sit, instead of the preference to be out and about, traversing the outdoor terrain?

## Ideas

I’ll give you examples: the enclosed modern-day gymnasium. Now, about a year without a gym membership… I’ve discovered how bizarre it is.

First, if you think about the naturalistic gymnasium of the ancient Greeks, it was an open-air gymnasium. Pretty much like a huge massive plot of dirt or sand, and a bunch of naked dudes working out, doing bodily combat exercises, training, hanging out talking shop, etc.

I think the problem in today’s world is that we have commoditized everything. We’ve even commoditized the human body, and we have applied both capitalistic and consumerist notions to the body.

For example, weight. Weight, like calories, is the most insanely foolish idea.

For example, let’s say that you are 6 feet tall and 300 pounds. Now this is different if you are 80% body fat, a morbidly obese man, or if you are 5% body fat, and you look like a demigod. Imagine someone like Ronnie Coleman without the steroids.

This is very pernicious with women; I think this is the bizarre contradiction: men are always trying to gain weight, while women are trying to lose weight.

If we think about this from a modern-day capitalistic productivity perspective… with money, we are always trying to gain it, never lose it. But if we thought about money like weight, the analogy starts to change a bit.

There is nobody on the planet who likes to lose money. Nobody. Also, almost universally… Everyone likes to gain money.

Also... it seems that people also like to *spend* money.

But the bizarre irony is that **the moment you spend money, you lose money**. Then the thought is, that is OK… I’ll just keep working harder, in order to earn more money, in order to spend it more.

## White people make money don’t spend it

I almost feel like Kanye West almost figured everything out. Of course, not everything, but a lot.

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This portion explores themes around modern society's norms and behaviors, particularly the contradictions in how we live, exercise, and manage our resources like money and health. There's a critique of indoor living and a comparison to more natural, outdoor activities, along with an analysis of the commodification of the body and the absurdities of modern economic behavior.

Dont be a loser! https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/16/leica-is-for-looosers/

At the age of 36, after my world travels, my domination of the street sphere, a little time to think and meditate, compile my thoughts etc.… I really do believe now that Fujifilm is the way.

Truth be told, I have nothing but good things to say about Fujifilm. They have always treated me well, and I respect all of the people in the Fujifilm sphere. My recent workshop in Hanoi and Saigon with Chu Viet Ha, and all of the Fujifilm global events I went to.

OK… I’m starting to think about a good analogy between car companies.

First, we all know that Toyota is the best. There is no second best. Certainly Tesla is the coolest and sexiest, the most innovative, the most radical, the most forethink car, but in terms of the best car, it is bar none Toyota.

Even I was thinking about the new Toyota crown signia, I saw a brand new one in white, on the dealership lot in Culver City, and I was blown away! The design is so forward thinking, so innovative… Tribute told if I had to purchase a brand new automobile in 2024, that would definitely be the car I would want, because it is really one of a kind, you bought it, you would never see anybody else on the road with it!

Anyways back to photography -- my thought about the desire for a Leica M rangefinder is like the desire for a Porsche 911 car. But I have personally discovered is that anybody who drives a Porsche 911 car, they are all insecure Shorty guys, who don’t really really have anything else going for them.

And this is what is so funny; anybody who drives a Porsche 911 thinks that they are so cool, but not really. They are just another Shorty guy drone.

The same thing with the world of photography; it seems that everyone always has penis envy with the guy who owns the newest Leica M camera. And after critically engaging with the whole photography world from age 21 to 36, nearly 15 years ,,, what I have come to realize is that so much of the photography industry is based on insecurity, everybody trying to “prove themselves”, to some sort of random authority figure?

First, Henri Cartier Bresson is out. He was and is now a lame duck.

I think the sneaky thing is that what Leica is trying to do is to essentially prostitute the image the legacy or the concept of the romantic Henri Cartier-Bresson; the ideas that we live off the grid, travel the world and planet, prince around with our little Leica M rangefinder camera, the romantic narrow streets of Paris, etc.

Probably one of the greatest benefits that I’ve learned studying philosophy was that essentially, the whole French romantic movement, who are essentially a bunch of degenerates. As an American, growing up… The notion of romance, being “romantic“, I never really double thought about it. it was always seen as a good thing. To be romantic, was always as a positive notion.

But what I discovered is that romanticism is essentially an escape from reality; we create these fictitious fake false fantasy landscapes and realities, to seek some sort of alternative Utopia to our miserable daily grind of remote work, zoom calls, emails, PowerPoint presentations, etc.

The sweetest word in the English language : Bitcoin

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Bitcoin.m4a

Blog: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/15/bitcoin-4/

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MOLON-NABE.m4a

YouTube: https://youtu.be/z-Vjv6rmhoE

Facts: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/13/molon-nabe-guns-are-for-pussies/

Super simple — Jefferson deadlift, mixed leg and grip style: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/10/how-to-deadlift-5-plates-easy/

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/RECOVER-1.m4a

Blog: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/08/recover-3/

### Bullet Summary: #RECOVER

#### Recovering Time and Life:

1. **Avoiding Car Dependency**:

- Experiment with not using cars as a strategy to avoid road rage and aggressive drivers.

- Observation that certain drivers use their vehicles to project power or aggression, which wouldn't occur in face-to-face interactions.

2. **Sociological Observations**:

- Discusses the social dynamics and passive-aggressive behavior often hidden behind the anonymity of driving.

- Notes the difference in public behavior when walking versus driving.

3. **Embracing Change**:

- Drawing from Gandhi's quote, "Become the change you wish to see in the world," by altering personal behavior to promote a more peaceful and respectful society.

4. **Walking as an Ideal Activity**:

- Advocates for walking as a primary mode of transport, noting its benefits for mental health and community engagement.

- Reflects on past experiences, such as hiking in Boy Scouts, which fostered a connection with nature and personal growth.

5. **Social Justice and Ethics**:

- Considers the role of ethics in modern society, advocating for active, public, and non-violent engagement in social justice.

- Highlights the importance of self-defense and armor, both physical and digital, as seen in the advocacy for bulletproof vests and the security of Bitcoin.

6. **Critique of Consumerism**:

- Criticizes the commercialization of walking and fashion, suggesting that true freedom comes from rejecting societal pressures to conform to consumer trends.

7. **Reflections on Wealth and Success**:

- Redefines wealth as health, family well-being, and the ability to live freely without material constraints.

- Emphasizes the value of walking and physical fitness as indicators of true success.

8. **Future Cities and Technology**:

- Imagines an ideal city where car dependency is reduced, and technology like self-driving cars enhances freedom rather than restricting it.

9. **Political Power and Proof of Work**:

- Discusses the importance of political power and financial systems based on proof of work, such as Bitcoin, as true forms of value and security.

10. **Aging and Longevity**:

- Reflects on aging, using examples like Hugh Jackman and Tom Cruise to highlight the importance of maintaining health and vitality over time.

11. **Personal Aspirations**:

- Sets a goal to maintain health and fitness as a lifelong pursuit, inspired by figures like Hugh Jackman.

12. **Cultural and Ethical Commentary**:

- Critiques modern cultural trends, such as consumerism and the superficial nature of societal values.

- Advocates for living authentically, with a focus on personal ethics and societal contributions.

13. **Philosophy of Living**:

- Promotes a lifestyle centered around simplicity, ethics, and mindful living, aiming for a balance of physical health, social responsibility, and personal freedom.

---

This summary encapsulates your ideas on recovering time and life through lifestyle changes, ethical living, and personal growth, while critiquing modern societal trends.

Becoming immortal: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/05/immortal-2/

PDF: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Immortal-Man-7.pdf

Summary:

- **Ubermensch Ideal:** Aim to become *beyond* man, embodying the übermensch concept.

- **Masculinity vs. Femininity:**

- Masculine traits are often associated with physical dominance, exemplified by Achilles.

- The use of guns in modern warfare is seen as cowardly compared to physical combat.

- Modern masculinity is often measured by material wealth rather than physical prowess.

- **Stud Concept:**

- "Stud" refers to prime breeding potential, both in animals and metaphorically in men.

- Women are often attracted to physical traits like height and muscularity over wealth.

- **Immortality:**

- Mortality means inevitable death; ancient immortals were gods who could not die.

- True purpose of fitness is not about being the strongest but achieving lasting vitality.

- **Short and Buff:**

- Many short, muscular men may use steroids to compensate for insecurities about height.

- Notable short men include celebrities like Jeff Bezos, Kanye West, and Tom Cruise.

- **Comparison and Judgment:**

- Humans are inherently comparative, constantly measuring themselves against others.

- In ancient times, men were judged by their ability to survive and conquer, not by modern metrics.

- **Gods and Theology:**

- Ancient Greek gods were more human-like, which contrasts with the monolithic Judeo-Christian God.

- The incarnation of God as Jesus in Christian theology is seen as a way to bridge the divine and human.

- **Lifestyle and Ethics:**

- Reject modern drugs, alcohol, and unhealthy foods in favor of natural elements and physical activity.

- Challenge and disrupt contemporary morals and ethics to achieve a higher state of being.

- **Democracy and Society:**

- Despite flaws, democracy is seen as the best system, promoting freedom and opportunity.

- Emphasizes the importance of immigrants' contributions and the shifting global power dynamic.

- **Family and Lineage:**

- Having children, especially sons, is essential for continuing the family lineage.

- Grandparents' role is to care for and impart wisdom to their grandchildren, countering modern hedonism.

- **Silent Resistance:**

- Avoid giving attention or publicity to things or people you dislike; silence is more powerful.

- **Stoicism and Emotional Control:**

- Strive to transcend human emotions, adopting a stoic approach to life.

- Embrace innovation in personal ethics, often by doing the opposite of what is expected.

These points encapsulate the major themes and ideas from your text.

Audio: https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ECONOMIC-IMMORTALITY.m4a

Read- https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2024/08/04/economic-immortality-4/

Here’s a bullet-point list of key takeaways from the text on "Economic Immortality":

- **Universal Economic Impact:**

- Economic issues affect every human being globally, making money essential for survival.

- **Critique of Materialism:**

- Material possessions, like luxury cars, provide fleeting joy and come with high maintenance costs.

- The pursuit of wealth for the sake of acquiring luxury items is unsustainable and often leads to dissatisfaction.

- **Temporary Nature of Satisfaction:**

- The concept of a "half-life" is used to describe how excitement and joy from material possessions diminish over time.

- Human nature often seeks novelty, leading to a constant cycle of acquisition and dissatisfaction.

- **Questioning Wealth Accumulation:**

- Figures like Jay Z express regret over spending on material goods, raising questions about the true value of wealth.

- **Critique of Biological Immortality:**

- The pursuit of biological immortality through technology is seen as bizarre and impractical, particularly in the context of aging and beauty.

- **Problems with Cosmetic Enhancements:**

- The use of plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancements often results in unnatural appearances and long-term consequences.

- **Economic Independence and Digital Slavery:**

- True freedom comes from economic independence, not being a slave to digital platforms or social media.

- Economic immortality involves ensuring that one's capital outlives them, growing and propagating over time.

- **Environmental and Childbirth Debate:**

- The idea that having fewer children is beneficial for the planet is challenged, with the author arguing that the planet exists to serve humanity.

- **Climate Change and Adaptation:**

- Climate change is acknowledged as a reality, but human adaptability can mitigate some of its effects.

- **Financial Thermodynamics:**

- Applying thermodynamic principles to finance involves preventing economic energy loss by eliminating unnecessary expenses.

- **Value of Open-Source and Self-Hosting:**

- Open-source projects and self-hosting content are praised for their longevity and independence from third-party platforms.

- **Enduring Legacy of Bitcoin:**

- Bitcoin is highlighted as a model of economic immortality, designed to function without a central authority and embodying economic freedom.

- **Visionaries and Economic Independence:**

- True visionaries prioritize innovation and impact over personal financial gain.

- **Critique of Wealth Focus in African-American Community:**

- The focus on wealth within the African-American community is linked to historical challenges, but the author suggests moving beyond materialism to achieve true freedom.

- **Practical Financial Advice:**

- The author advises against taking on debt and emphasizes the importance of financial independence and avoiding consumer traps.

- **Reality of Property Ownership:**

- Property ownership is often illusory due to ongoing taxes, which prevent true ownership.

- **Health Precautions Post-COVID:**

- The cautious behavior adopted during COVID-19, like avoiding indoor spaces and wearing masks, is suggested as a continued practice for maintaining health.

- **Day-to-Day Flexibility:**

- The author advocates for a flexible approach to life, making decisions based on immediate circumstances rather than rigid plans.

- **Ethos of Not Spending:**

- The author practices not spending money on themselves, viewing most purchases as unnecessary and valuing the idea of things more than actual ownership.