The sky isn't the exact symbol that comes to mind when we hear the word 'equivalent'. Photographer (and one of the pioneers in the field) Alfred Stieglitz perceived the sky in a brilliantly refreshing angle.

One of his most renowned works include the 'Equivalents' - a series of close to two hundred photographs of clouds which he clicked in a span of twelve years. In this unusual and highly creative venture, Stieglitz studied the form and beauty of the clouds, but what he observed from his study was even more remarkable.

He began to take these photographs in the summer 1922, when he tilted his camera up to the sky. He confirmed that this series was the consequence of everything he had learned about photography in the last 40 years. In his observation, he made a unique remark about the sky:

"Through clouds [I wanted] to put down my philosophy of life—to show that my photographs were not due to subject matter—not to special trees, or faces, or interiors, to special privileges, clouds were there for everyone—no tax as yet on them—free.”

Thus happened 'Equivalents'.

As a beginner in the field, by habit or choice, I was drawn to the innumerable impressions the sky made on each of us. It is true that we all see an extension of our inner yearning reflected on the lucid rays in the sky and that is exactly where we are all equal. I present here few of my interpretations of the sky and how it has mirrored the learnings and un-learnings of my life.