jdfdave

I try to keep up with what's happening with photography through a couple of other forums, much like this one. But I like this one the best. There's not so much talk about gear and gadgets and more talk about taking photos and the creative process. So I thought I would share a just little about why I like this hobby of mine.

Photography gives me a creative outlet
I love photography for what it does for me. For example- those moments when I take a picture of a sunset, and after 8 or 10 photos that are not quite right, there's that one that just takes my breathe away.

It connects me with the past and the present. It helps me remember places and events, those moments in time that made such a significant impression on you. Also, the little things that are so important, like the first I saw my son walk, my daughter riding her bike, or photo of my grandmother's house, that has long since been torn down.

To become aware of myself, others, and this great space we call nature we live in. So, photography helps me find my sense of who I am. It's not really about taking the best photo or having the latest gadget. it's about,... Well,,,,, I don' t really know, but if you pursue this hobby, I think you may understand what I am saying.

I have had photography as a hobby for many years now, taken more bad pictures than good. I just recently finished up a book for my family and a few friends that took 2 years. ( I took a lot of photos and deleted a lot) What started as a disorganized mess turned into a very rewarding and heartfelt project for me.
I have got a great Pentax Dslr with various lens and a cheap canon point shoot for my gear. I like what I have, but I do wish I had better. But I also know I much, much more to learn about my equipment and how to get the best out of it.

So, with the start of a new year I wanted a different kind of project to work on, and learn from. So, I came up with this weird idea to experiment with black and white using using my el cheapo Canon p&s camera, with little or no post processing. Most of the photos I have taken are not very good so far, but hey, I'm having fun, annoying my wife, and trying to see what is unseen and unnoticed.

Here is a link to a blog I am working on:http://dfurlow.blogspot.com/

Sorry for being long winded. Keep shooting and posting, you have taught me a lot.

14kphotog Loc: Marietta, Ohio

Welcome to the UHH, what PENTAX camera? I shoot a K10d and several ME Supers.

docrob Loc: Durango, Colorado

went to your blog site found out we both have an interest in pondering. i tried to leave a comment but could not - blogspot seems to do that. Just said older i get the less time i have and the more important it seems to spend more of it just pondering.

Cappy Loc: Wildwood, NJ

Everyone, especially as they get older, needs a hobby that can be mentally and somewhat physically challenging and keep them busy.

Nikonfan70 Loc: Long Island

I agree it is a good learning and rewarding hobby.

marcomarks Loc: Ft. Myers, FL

Experimenting with B&W can be fun but why not shoot in color (so you don't later say, 'I sure wish I had that shot in color') and create B&W from them?

Fred Stuckmann Loc: Ohio

You have some very nice artistic shots on your blog.
What I like about photography, is that it's my ability to
express what I see, without using a thousand words.
I agree, take them in color, you can go b/w in your
software. That way you've got all the bases covered.
Keep up the good work.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad in Boston Mill

jdfdave

Someone asked which Pentax Dslr. I have the Kx. It takes better photos than I do.

In response to the question of why not shoot in color and convert to b&w. Laziness, I guess, but really just trying to train my mind and eyes to what things look like in b&w. But, it is a good suggestion in case I get a really good shot I want to save.

marcomarks Loc: Ft. Myers, FL

The train photo is a prime example of why you might want to still shoot in color. It could look nice in either color or B&W depending on what you wanted to do with it... a train magazine would likely want it in color, a murder mystery magazine might want it in B&W. A print hanging in your living room might be better in color, one hanging in your den might be better in B&W. You never know...

I guess shooting in color followed by another in B&W would work too, if you can switch to and from B&W easily in your camera.

Kimberly Loc: Orlando, FL

Not only did I enjoy your essay but also, I like your blog! It's not the same ol' same. And yes, very creative. :-)

dragonfist Loc: Stafford, N.Y.

I really liked your blog. I am now pondering on how you come up with all the great ideas.

Tina

Enjoyed your blog and your written comments in both. I didn't think you were long-winded, just openly and honestly sharing your heart. Thanks for sharing your story.