Lately I’ve been feeling like my images are falling short, like something is missing within them. Questions run through my head. Am I being too critical? Do I need more practice at this craft, both in the field and at the computer? Am I burned out? Or do I have this dang blogging virus, I’ve heard about? It seems I never know what the images will be like once loaded into Lightroom. But, as I worked on this image in Lightroom my mind wandered back to the evening I took this image. I’d like to share some of those thoughts and feelings I had while taking this image.
This image came about as the result of my attempt to capture a few shots of the full moon. While setting up my tripod I peaked over my shoulder to west and saw this scene. I turned the camera around and took about a half dozen images. I bracketed for HDR but settled on processing only one image. I enjoyed the few moments and then turned my attention back to the moonrise. Shortly after the sun dropped below the horizon and the moon was hidden behind clouds and the camera was packed away, mother nature presented me with a glorious thunder and lightening show. In fact the whole evening had been a show! As the show moved on to the second act, I marveled at the power nature was giving me. I felt really small at the moment yet comfortable in my solitude. I felt chilled as the wind penetrated my light fleece. The chill made me think about those who were at home watching television or at the bar having a brew or two with friends. They were not feeling the cold wind or the first raindrops forming on their clothes. They were not seeing the outlines of farms on the horizon when lightening would momentarily light up the sky then seconds later hearing the clap of thunder. But, I also thought of those standing outside or looking through their windows, tuned into this same show. Those of watching were present to mother nature and for me it was a much needed time. Maybe nothing is really missing in my photography as the real purpose of this passion is to be there, tuned in to the “real” show. I saw, felt, smelled that moment. And, that’s what it’s about?
I’m off to work, hope everyone enjoys the weekend!
10 Comments
Tom Dills
Monte, you make some really good points. I’ll probably get in trouble for attempting to practice psychology without a license, but I’ve had similar thoughts myself. When we first start out photographing we are very subject-specific, and there are very few subjects as exciting as a great sunrise or sunset. As we advance, we move past those subjects to photograph things that we have feelings about. Like you, I have “matured” (my opinion!) to the point where I can just as easily enjoy a sunset without a camera as I can with one.
I also think that as we advance in photography, our definition of what “moves” us changes, and at some point we look at our photos and try to recapture what we felt. Ironically in many ways that puts us right back at the beginning, when our photos didn’t capture what we “saw” and we started learning to make them do that. Now we are trying to capture what we “feel” and that is an entirely new venture.
I’ve gotten to the point where just being outside is so wonderful that I almost don’t care if I make a photograph. I do, of course, but then the challenge is to translate that into a photograph that says what we want it to say. I think the frustration you feel is the pain of a maturing vision. The trick is to get past that point and you’ll eventually get to the point where you start liking what you see again, and before you know it you are at a completely different level.
Monte Stevens
I agree with you definition as “matured”, a simple walk around the block can be all I need. Your last paragraph was good for me to read and I’ve read it several times now. I’m not sure I have a goal of a different level but I’m “mature” enough to know that if I walk the path long enough I will move to another level. Inside is a voice that desires to see that, in due time thought. Thanks for your comment!!!
Mark
What a great post. Monte, I think you have developed a vaccine to the virus.
Monte Stevens
And, the vaccine is free!!!! The only cost is taking the time.
ken bello
This is a gorgeous image, Mont. I like the ribbon of color running through it and the detail within.
I have not yet detected anything missing in your photography. If anything, you have a very wide range of subject matter ranging from landscapes , nature and portraits. That’s a pretty good show in itself.
Monte Stevens
This image has to be one of my favorite images of past few years. I just love this one! Thanks, Ken!
watne
Wonderful photo. I like your comments even better. Good meditation. I was probably one of those inside, missing nature;s show – much the worse off for being warm and boring.
Monte Stevens
I’ve seen the view out that Living room window you have so I know you experience scens like this on many occasions. Thank you, my friend!
Chris Klug
Monte, this is really beautiful. I just wish it was bigger on my screen. Wonderful!
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Chris. This has to be one of my favorites over the past few years. It just resonates with me. I’m thinking I want to make a large print of it just to see how it comes out. If I like it enough I’ll hang it up.