new photo

Low Tide, and a day off, and I found this scene.
It is a bit different from my usual minimalist approach, but I like it. I want to see how it looks big, say around 20"x30".
I am also thinking of starting a line of greeting cards. I will post any appropriate links here soon...

Old School

I drive a 5-speed in my car. It is a bit of a pain in city traffic while drinking a coffee, but I prefer the feel of the road and the car. I had a friend once who said he prefers to be lazy and let the car decide on what gear to use. In his words, "I am getting too old to worry about little details"

What does this have to do with photography?

I have been using an old all metal Nikon 105mm macro lens on my Fuji S2. Now remember that this is a manual focus lens with no computer chip. That means, obviously, no AF, but also no auto aperture and no metering. Using it requires thought and awareness of light. With a digital, I can cheat a bit and check the histogram immediately after the fact, but it still slows down my shooting style. I have to think about the light levels and I have to consciously choose what aperture and shutter speed I want.

there is also a tactile pleasure with this lens that most modern lenses can't touch. Focus is indescribably smooth. The balance is superb. And I won't even comment on the legendary optical performance.

Sometimes it is nice to "slum it" a bit to make your mind work in unaccustomed ways. Maybe this could be considered a workout for your creative eye. Whatever. I really enjoy this exercise, and I recommend you try it as well. Turn off as much automation as possible and see what you can accomplish...