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I recently attended an amazing photography conference in Pincher Creek Alberta, where there were a number of speakers that covered a variety of photographic topics; I was in my element! Although I was primarily there to hear Viktoria Haack and Adam Gibbs speak (two renowned BC photographers who’s style and genres I admire), I actually enjoyed all the speakers and presenters. Their work, combined with their shared wisdom, was inspiring; so much so that it inspired me (personally) to dive into some new (to me) genres. That said, I was particularly interested in the discussions that pertained to astrophotography (including aurora borealis), wildlife photography and Black & White photography; just to mention a few. When I left the conference I decided to concentrate on black and white for a while, so imagine my delight when I came across this old farmhouse (not far from Pincher Creek). At first, I was merely fixated on the old abandoned homestead but as I walked around I noticed all the amazing leading lines which added to the overall composition. Considering the subject, I knew this photograph would look amazing in black and white; by naturally adding a sense of mood, mystery and age.
Located on the border of Arizona and California, Lake Havasu is 3 hours west of Phoenix, 2.5 hours south of Las Vegas and 5 hours east of Los Angeles. As part of the Colorado river, the lake was created with the completion of the Parker dam 1938 and has since become a year round tourist destination, with more than 400 miles of coastline and a multitude of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, camping, hiking and camping. The planned community of Lake Havasu City was founded in 1964 and was really “put on the map”, when the original London Bridge was moved and re-built brick by brick. Before dismantling the original bridge, each brick was numbered, then shipped to Long Beach California where it was then transported overland to Lake Havasu. Reassembly began in 1968 and was completed in 1971. The beaches around Lake Havasu reminded me of a tropical destination. Wow! It was easy to imagine I was in the Caribbean; with the lush palm trees, sandy beaches, the lapping of the turquoise water and the warmth of the sun too. This image was taken from one of the many local beach parks.
"Canyon Tree" It’s been said that, “To write well, you have to write what you know”, and although this is true, we (thankfully) will never know “everything”. We can share what we do know, and be open and willing to learn more.... and there lies growth. That said, I hope that my artistic journey speaks to you in an inspiringly curious way. With this in mind, I am always looking for the next photographic image. I like to challenge myself to look beyond a first glance; this image was an example of that. I stood in this gorge with another wall of rock directly behind me. There wasn’t a lot vegetation, which made this tree really stand out. You’ll notice that I didn’t include the sky because If I had, your eyes would have been drawn up to it (the brightness) and out of the frame; now your eyes remain drawn to the tree. I am thankful for my passion for photography, it has opened so many creative avenues and in so doing it gives me great joy. That said, I encourage you to grasp your creative passions and explore the opportunities. Hmmm, someone once said to me, “Romi, opportunities don’t come knocking at your door”, you have to look for them”. So true. Life is very individual, however it’s created through the choices we make. Humbling.... yes! Scary…. yes! Exciting…. yes. Life though, is in the memories we create, those we leave behind and those with whom we have so lovingly touched. Look, with an intent to see possibilities ....in life, and in creativity too! :-)
