Immersed in the Moment

I had one of those creative days on Sunday. The day that was most needed. The day when I was completely in the moment, focused on seeing and being…being a part of the landscape, immersing myself in it. I knew before I developed the images I would be pleased. Sometimes, often times, these Zen moments do not happen. Other times, it is unavoidable.

I had one of those creative days on Sunday. The day that was most needed. The day when I was completely in the moment, focused on seeing and being…being a part of the landscape, immersing myself in it. I knew before I developed the images I would be pleased. Sometimes, often times, these Zen moments do not happen. Other times, it is unavoidable. Completely, effortlessly, immersed in the moment.  

There are differing ways I go about shooting, creating images.  Sometimes, I pre-see the image I want.  I visualize the end result before I even leave the house.  Prior planning is usually relentless, thought about the subject matter has been ongoing, and my shooting is very intentional.  I view this as work.  I am after the finished product.  It is a very rewarding experience at the conclusion however, it is not always fulfilling in the moment.  Often, I want enjoyment.  I want creative energy to flow. I want to leave work and home life behind.  I want to forget the stresses of tomorrow and yesterday.  I want to be in the moment, immersed in the moment.

Which leads me to my preferred method of shooting (there are others, I may go into details at a later time, a later post).  Sometimes, I gather my camera, a roll or two of black and white film, a prime lens and my tripod.  I don’t over-complicate it with gear.  I keep it very simple to limit the possibilities, which unleash the potential possibilities.  A paradox, yes, but one of countless in life.  You have to let go of options to fully appreciate the options available, creatively speaking.  I have a set place to go, but no set place to shoot.  I wander.  Very slowly, deliberately looking, seeing, immersing myself into the scene. I see, visualize the possibilities.  Focus on the limitations of the equipment I have and adapt it to the setting at hand.  I slow down and become aware.  And then it just happens.  The creative energy is flowing, I am energized with creativity and my most personally rewarding work is done.  This is when the beginnings of a new monograph begin.  The focus on projects not yet realized.  Potential is recognized.  I am part of my craft.

And then it is over, but not the anti-climax.  Lasting, still able to be in the moment but also to reflect upon this experience that has unfolded.  Knowing that what is captured on the film, waiting to be unleashed at a later time with development will be something memorable and very important personally for the experience that coincided with the image capturing.  My creative juices have been re-invigorated.  I am ready to begin earnest work.  I remember why I am a photographer.

These images are all from the same roll, camera and lens.  A Nikon FM2n, nikkor 20/2.8ais, Ilford FP4+ film developed in d76 1:1 and scanned on my Kodak Pakon F135+.  Only slight work in the digital darkroom (except one pano-merge and cropped from 2 images).  Just basic burning, sharpening, contrast.  Nothing that would not be done in a traditional dark room setting.

How about some B&W? digital interpretations at Big Bend National Park

Sooooo, I believe I am finally through processing the images from this winter’s trip to Big Bend National Park.  I know, I know; one is never really through, but I am at a stopping point.  I am also finding some of my favorite work I captured digitally, I prefer presented in a traditional monochrome format.  Somehow, the desert atmosphere feels more authentic (to me) in B&W.  BBNP will be the theme for the next post or two as well, followed up to this with color work.  I hope you enjoy these and feel free to comment (they are welcome).
desert hills

all things will stick you in the desert

morning light awash in dog canyon

dog canyon

into the Chisos

lonesome

Chisos range