Digital vs Film

The debate continues between the die hard traditional (film users) and the technically savvy digital photographers. Today, as I rummaged around for a 4GB Compact flash card, a vision of my negative film storage boxes flashed through my mind. Each plastic sleeve was numbered, titled, and dated with a Sharpy. I can remember groaning over static, spilled chemistry, or exposed paper; at least, my sleeves of negatives with their contact sheets could be seen, felt, and even smelled. For a few hours I felt down right melancholy. Then, the light appeared and viola there sat the missing CF card waiting to be downloaded and work-flowed. The instant relief jet set me forward into 2008. I remembered that I was privileged to learn on film and have an entirely different understanding of photography as an art as opposed to a digital only student. Photography has history just as any other art medium, business, or science. As students, we must soak ourselves in the heritage of our passions and remain steadfast in our quest for understanding both the photography as an art form and the photographer.

Opening Miracles

Photography is a daily act of mediation. My mind seems to be able to conceptualize the miracles that are visually available everyday. Today, I rushed and missed my peaceful moments. As artists, we must be neither too critical of our inaction (ie. a break) or of our creativity. We must release the pressure that seems built up from not breathing  deeply.  I tend to forget the idea of " through breathe to depth..." These basic elements help me accomplish the daily chores (I think we all loathe at least some.) and find time for our passions. Time can challenge us to lose sight of the miracles art has in store for us and our audience. My personal challenge to myself is make art everyday drawing a virtual line from my heart to my subject, regardless of the chosen medium. In doing so, my vision is to advocate for all artist to challenge, share, and create miracles. So, grab a camera, paint brush, or pencil. Take 15 minutes. Just create and remember the joy in your passion.