Madison River (1/800 sec at f7.1, 35mm at ISO 100)
I’ve spent the last few days just playing. There’s nothing like playing to get your creative juices going. I’m trying to focus a bit on my landscape photography for the next few weeks and doing so I’ve decided to shoot exclusively with my digital medium format. If for no other reason just to mix up the format a bit and become more familiar with the equipment. I know it’s been said time and time again, it’s not the equipment that counts – it’s the visualization. I totally agree with that statement, but I’m also a strong believer that there are times that gear/technology can spark creativity or push us outside our comfort zone. I remember shooting with my old Pentax Spotmatic for years and the learning curve it posed over my simple push button Kodak 110. Flash forward, 2010, we have camera’s that shoot HD video, super high ISO, files large enough to create billboard size prints and software that makes the unimaginable a reality. I might be one of the few willing to say it, but I don’t have any problems admitting technology inspires me. I’m excited, almost giddy about all the advances in our industry because for me it keeps my creative juices flowing. It’s just how my brain is wired…no apologies. I own a camera that shoots HD video and it drives me nuts that I don’t have it mastered yet, but I will in time. To me, it’s the need to understand things that pushes me.
Don’t be fooled, I’m not saying it’s all about the newest and shiniest gear in your camera bag (wait, I’m lying it is…;) No, just kidding) But it’s really about inspiration. I’ve spoken with many people in the last few years that say, “I love my new camera,” or “I love digital, so I find myself taking more pictures,” or “I’ve fallen in love with photography again because of Facebook and the ability to share with my family.” Technology and creativity have gone hand in hand for years. The births of many of our advances have been on the heels of creative types wanting to push the limits of their equipment. So don’t trash technology. Either embrace it and make it work for you or ignore it and do what you do best. It doesn’t matter to me how you reach your end product. What does matter is that we each respect one anothers creative path. No two minds are created the same, and with that comes the realization that what inspires one might not inspire the other. So, feed your inspiration by whatever means necessary and don’t apologize because at the end of the day—- it’s not about them—it’s all about you and your creative journey.
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Awesome post, John. I totally agree; if it wasn’t for the tech we have available in products like PhotoShop (which I use), I would not have been able to come up with some of the final images I have. Raindrops captured on a leaf is wonderful, but the ability to alter the colors makes the art possible.
BTW, I started with a Kodak 110 too. Wish I had recognized back then the impact photography would have on my life; I might have gotten serious about it much earlier in my life.
Ed,
You made me smile with your last sentence. I know exactly what you mean…Thanks, John
Very well stated, John. Everyone uses some form of technology in this field – whether traditional or progressive. Gee, is this becoming political? Conservative vs liberal? *lol*
I know for a fact that some of the images I have acquired would not have the impact they do if not for the technology behind the equipment. But to each his own. Inspiration is as unique as the individual and everyone is free to explore this art as they see fit. That’s what keeps photography so fresh and exciting.
I like your parting statement: “So, feed your inspiration by whatever means necessary and don’t apologize because at the end of the day—- it’s not about them—it’s all about you and your creative journey.”
“Madison River” is a stunning capture and whatever equipment you used to produce it, I say, “Bravo! Well done, indeed!”
Lori,
Thanks for your comment. I shot that with a Phase One 645 DF, 21+ digital back. It’s been a big learning curve…;)
It’s interestig you wrote this. I just bought my first SLR. Nowhere near your equiptment but a very far cry from the Fuji camera I had. I think t was one of the first Fuji digital cameras that came out. Yes, that old.
But when I walked into B&H and immersed myself in the surroundings I knew I had entered a whole new chapter in my life. I went to the used section and I saw equipment from decades ago and I still think its amazing how far the technology has come and how amazing it was when it FIRST started.
I totally agree with Ed on his last sentece too. But hey 30, 60, 80,.. its never to late to go for what makes one happy and keeps the adventure going
Peggy,
Thanks for your comment…;)
Magnifique!! Bravo!!
Amitiés de France:CLAIRE