I’m going to be honest here: this idea of “themes” that we and so many photographer sites carry has always been a tough one for me. I’ve never liked being told what to do (who does, really?), and the minute you put a fence around me, mentally or physically, I resent it and want to bust through it. The whole thing creates negative energy which seems to act like “writer’s block” for me. I have always felt themes to be creative restrictions for me, but I understand how for many, they can function as creative sparks.
But when Lindsey announced the theme for March, I was actually quite excited. I’ve read some recently on the topic, and thought a lot about it on my own, and I was ready, for once, not stuck staring blankly at the drawing board, waiting for lightning to strike. And I’ve got a collection of photos to share that I never felt had a place anywhere before. They aren’t quite enough on their own, but together and in light of the theme, they make sense.
I moved to small town upstate New York within the past year. As you might expect, new places motivate me like nothing else to get out with my camera and explore. But sometimes, I’d be walking the dog, or on the way to dinner, and I couldn’t stop and properly set up a shot with my real camera. So when I wasn’t feeling like breaking out the big guns, I’d pull out my iphone to make a visual checklist of someplace I’d like to return and take a photo with, say my F100. In the process, I ended surprising myself and collected a group of shots that stood quite well on their own merits.
My iPhone wasn’t my only companion, though.
Happy Snapping!
Cara of tumbleweedineden
Nice collection of photos Cara! Good to see Rosie…you will notice that Willow makes a guest appearance in my post for tomorrow. They make great photo walk companions, don’t they?
they do! at least when not pulling on the leash as you try and set up a shot!
I love seeing the things that have caught your eye around your area, Cara. I often think of my iPhone as a sketchbook for my big girl camera, but these totally stand on their own. Fantastic.
I feel exactly the same way you do about themes, Cara. But this one is so different for me too. I’m excited to explore new places through others’ photography. I love seeing what caught your eye – both the little details and the bigger streetscapes.
I sure like the things you and your iphone see while out and about. These little iphones are pretty amazing little devices. I love mine as a back up camera. This theme is for the adventurous at heart.
I love seeing images of your new home 🙂 And Rosie always makes me smile! That cafe shot…awesome!
Aw, love seeing these! Cara’s unmistakable charm and viewpoint. Lovely walk, lovely photos Cara! My fave is the top one – and I wanna come visit! 😉
please do!!
I’d say those photos DEFINITELY have a place of their own. I love the interior of the restaurant and those chairs! The theme seems serendipitously perfect as you prepare for the next chapter. I’m pleased.
i was thinking that too. Thanks Lindsey!
Love these glimpses into your life and surroundings, Cara!
These really do stand on their own – looks like a very charming neighbourhood. And I love the glint in Rosie’s eye there, she looks a little mischievous 🙂