If we want a society, indeed a future, that isn't defined by the exhaustion and anxiety so many are feeling right now, we have to practice slowing down (when we can), resting (as we're able), and simplifying (in any way we can) which will result in less drag on our finite resources. It's not possible for everyone to make such choices right now, I know, but it is possible for me. And maybe for you, too. —Holly Wren Spaulding, Letter + News from Holly: Useless Things

 

“Just because we all use the same kind of tool doesn’t mean we’re trying to do similar things with that tool, and that should give comfort to those of you who have been bruised by the constant efforts of others to hammer you into a mold that is more understandable to them or looks more like what they are doing.” —David duChemin, Clubs, Competitions, & Critiques

 

“All photographs are a collection of facts, but the inflection is different.
This is one of the great mysteries of photography: how we bring so much of ourselves to such a simple instrument.”
—Richard Misrach, on Landscape and Meaning

I pretty much always shoot from the heart, trusting my instincts. If something catches my eye or hits me at the moment, I take the picture. I rely on the culling and sorting of images back home, on the monitor, to hone in on what I’m trying to say. I am ruthless with regard to which pictures I keep. Both of these images were fun to take — and honestly, required a fair amount of effort. Pulling the car over, getting out of the car. And for the picnic table at the entrance to Chesapeake Trial, walking in the ditch alongside Route 17 on a chilly winter day. It’s always worth it. Even if the picture is mediocre. Even if my vision doesn’t materialize.

What I’m looking for is something evocative and universal. It’s not my job to tell the reader what to feel . . . which is why titles can be problematic. But it is my work to pull together the pieces in the frame for the story.

 

I rediscover the joy of picking up my camera every day.

I am about simple things done well. I don’t obsess over gear, or pixels, or “likes” on social media.

I’d rather go deep than wide. Quantity doesn’t equate to quality. I try to take fewer more impactful images.

When I take pictures, I seek to let my mind go and relax. My favorite way to spend time — walk and compose — as I pass the world by.

I am not concerned with technical perfection or hitting the mark every time. A picture that is blurred often has an emotive quality that is undeniable.

I appreciate small triumphs.

I am naturally curious about people, objects and spaces and my photography explores the relationships between the three. Even when there are no people in the frame.

I’m all about taking the long way and the long view.

I love finishing touches and I’m willing to put in the extra time and effort to make meaningful things well.

I try to remember it’s all about perspective. No rain. No flowers.