Long ago, as long as I can remember, I loved photography. I took pictures of my dog, I took pictures of my friends, I took pictures of random animals, I took pictures of anything that caught my eye. My Aunt Darlene took pictures and they were good. One even made it into a calendar. I wanted to do that too.
When my film was full, my first camera was a 110mm, I would save up my money or beg my Grandfather for some and walk over to Superstore and get my photos developed. When they brought in the one-hour photofinishing service, I was beside myself. I would drop my film off and I would wander around the store for an hour and wait…did they turn out, did I get any good ones? Hoping that the one shot I got of so and so wasn’t blurry. Oh the anticipation. Some times I would get double prints just to have or to give away.
Times have changed. I no longer have a 35mm, I have two Canon’s. A SX60 HS and a Rebel XSI. I don’t have a preference, they both serve their purpose. Ask Reg, I talk to my cameras too. Sometimes they don’t do what I want – or better yet, I can’t get them to do what I think they should do.
Fast forward 30 years and here I am hunting for old houses. I drive up and down the gravel roads and search for abandoned homes, armed with my RM and back road maps. Then I call the land owners, tell them what my plan is and get permission to enter onto their property. Most times the person will tell you about the property. Even better, first hand information.
I can spend hours on a property and not even realize I’ve been there that long. For me, its my medication, release. I find it very therapeutic. Cheap therapy. Out in the fresh air and just enjoying the scenery around you.
I will admit that I am hesitant photographing people. My daughter will let me take photos of her and she’s a great subject. I would try taking portraits but I’m worried that I would disappoint someone. I need to build my own confidence or, I need to just take the plunge. I want to try night photography, I’m scared. I’ll get there though, I’m getting braver and braver everyday.
CRUMBLING MEMORIES 