Why -

Why photography? Photography has been a hobby, an art form and a passion since I was nine years old. From my teen years to when I was in my early twenties, I had my own darkroom and practiced photo-art there, and owned many inexpensive to medium priced cameras.
I learned the technical side of lenses, focusing, cropping, presentation, et al, and with most of the of the camera formats. Now, more recently and in my mid-seventies, I reluctantly purchased a digital camera - reluctantly because, I fear the loss of the familiar, and the versatility of film format. Digital brings a new dimension however, and I have become enchanted with its own versatility; with its gadgetry; with the new creativity it offers, and with its compatibility with computer technology.
Why photography? Everyone, bar none has their own circle of life. The elements of life within my own personal circle include spousal love, parental love, career, religion, volunteerism, hobbies and, of course, art. Most everyone has the art element within their own circle of life. Some paint, some write, some collect art, most people have a love of art, some try to bury it with cynicism – but everyone appreciates it.
Why photography? As I move from the abstract through panoramic vistas of landscapes; of macros; and nature photography, I keep searching for a way to express who I am as a feeling person. I seek to express my whole life’s experiences. There are people in my life, some beautiful, some not as pretty, and some very ugly, (under their skin). Then there are things like boats, cars and buildings – buildings where I have lived, where I have visited and where, just being there brings emotions of pride and appreciation. There are flowers and things of beauty that I want to keep alive in my memory – photographs can excite my recall of such beauty..
Why photography? Because, it may help me express my appreciation for all that God has given me (and everyone). God’s creation is abundantly full of beauty – but, it can depict the ugly as well. All of God’s creation is for our own fulfillment. Photography helps me understand…………..