In early 1998 I went through a situation that most individuals experience at some point in their lives. An experience that leaves you asking questions of yourself...and of others...but mainly of yourself. Oddly enough, the primary question is usually "Why?", and it's repeated over, and over, and over again.
Regardless, a year later I wrote the following. I'm not quite sure why I wrote it. Maybe I felt I had nothing better to do at that point and was looking to fill the time (that could be said of this very moment). Or maybe enough time had finally passed and I was able to finally loosen myself from the grip of misery and disappointment that had held on to me for so long. Nonetheless, I liked it enough when I finished writing it and it's been in my log ever since. I once saw a motto for despair: "It's always darkest before it goes pitch black." The fact is, there's truth to that. This was my truth that even pitch black moments may have a light...may...
"...Dusk has befallen over the land. The dim glimmer of twinkling lights rests upon the chilled Earth. She, although surrounded by life, encompassed by motion, setting beneath the masses, and looked down upon by the heaves above, like me...is alone. As she is lost within a vast and unknown universe, so am I lost in a world while struggling to stay alfloat in my mind chaotic. All the while praying for an inspiration to deliver peace to my inner-most being. My mental, emotional, and soon to be physical atmospheres are in turmoil. My heart reaces with ice and fear, fighting to maintain; the life renders it beyond shock. I feel no contemptment. I see nothing of much...and much of nothing. I look to the heavens above, and then deeper into them, searching for a piece of a peace. Something should bring me this. Something...somewhere...somehow. Am I destined to suffer a fate which has consumed so many? Be it I who must remain to exist with a heart of ice, a love lost, and a frost so cold as to chill the sun? I search further. The path I am upon continues to lose its warmth as the journey continues. Knowing not where I am, knowing not where I am going, I continue my quest for I know where I want to be. The search continues...
Dreary...weak...confusion...misdirection...regret...sadness...my traveling companions. They are my company...my confidants. Though we are not the best of friends, their presence is slightly welcome. They are the key...the bare essence of my mission. A reminder is the purpose they serve, keeping me in constant realization of my quest. Will my quest come to an end? Good question. What is the end I am destined? That is a question within itself...a part of my excursion.
A door opens; an inspiration is in sight. Reach it? Knowledge does not bear the ability to acknowledge wisdom, yet wisdom bears the ability to acknowledge knowledge. I have done neither. An actualization to a realization is what I claim. Realizing that I know and understand my goal is an inspiration. And within this inspiration I find a sense of satisfaction; within this satisfaction is a feeling of peace.
I begin to relax. The rush in my mind begins its descension in its speed of motion. The tension I felt within loosens its grip. Realization has brought upon me an aire of relaxation. The heart warms, the ice thaws, and the chill subsides. My spheres of being descend from turmoil, looking for its own idea of tranquility. A search far from over, yet underway. The sun beings to warm the hearth anew. My confidants leave me be, as their companionship is no longer needed...nor desired. Contentment now sits by my side as we view the dawning of a new state of mind. And from this chaos comes enlightenment."
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Reflections
It's been a while since I have added anything to this blog. I would have to say since 2009 by the looks of my last posting. Nonetheless, I haven't forgotten that this site exists, and I felt that it was high time I contribute.
A lot has happened in the past 3 years. In fact, a lot more has happened just within the past several months, but this post isn't for a recap of my life's events. It's more or less to put down some reflections that I was re-introduced to today. Quick flashback: back in 1996, I would sit down to a dimly lit desk and start to write. I really didn't pay attention to what I was putting down on paper, I just knew that I wanted to write something. I've done that a few times since then...either writing original pieces of my own, or taking down words of wisdom that I've encountered over the years and tried to live by. I say "tried" because...well...nobody is perfect, but we'd all like to think that we're making improvements upon ourselves and doing well towards others.
In either case, what follows is from something I scribbled in 2000. Simple reflections that meant enough to me to make me write them in my little log book. I'm sure they're probably older than when I noted them, but I feel that they hold true today. Who knows, you might even find yourself reflecting on them and trying to make a change for yourself after reading.
1. Maybe God wants us to meet a few wrong people before meeting the right one so that when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to be grateful for that gift.
2. Love is when you take away the feeling, the passion, and the romance in a relationship and find that you still care for that person.
3. When the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often time we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us.
4. The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with...never saying a word...and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.
5. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it. But it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.
6. There are things you'd love to hear that you would never hear from the person who you would like to hear from. But don't be so deaf as not to hear it from the one who says it from their heart.
7. Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; in the end it fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.
8. Dream what you want to dream, go where you want to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you want to do.
9. A careless word may kindle strife; a cruel word my wreck a life; a timely word may level stress; a loving word may heal and bless.
10. The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
11. Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried. For only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.
12. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go on well in life until you let go of all your past failure and heartaches.
A lot has happened in the past 3 years. In fact, a lot more has happened just within the past several months, but this post isn't for a recap of my life's events. It's more or less to put down some reflections that I was re-introduced to today. Quick flashback: back in 1996, I would sit down to a dimly lit desk and start to write. I really didn't pay attention to what I was putting down on paper, I just knew that I wanted to write something. I've done that a few times since then...either writing original pieces of my own, or taking down words of wisdom that I've encountered over the years and tried to live by. I say "tried" because...well...nobody is perfect, but we'd all like to think that we're making improvements upon ourselves and doing well towards others.
In either case, what follows is from something I scribbled in 2000. Simple reflections that meant enough to me to make me write them in my little log book. I'm sure they're probably older than when I noted them, but I feel that they hold true today. Who knows, you might even find yourself reflecting on them and trying to make a change for yourself after reading.
1. Maybe God wants us to meet a few wrong people before meeting the right one so that when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to be grateful for that gift.
2. Love is when you take away the feeling, the passion, and the romance in a relationship and find that you still care for that person.
3. When the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often time we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us.
4. The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with...never saying a word...and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.
5. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it. But it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.
6. There are things you'd love to hear that you would never hear from the person who you would like to hear from. But don't be so deaf as not to hear it from the one who says it from their heart.
7. Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; in the end it fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.
8. Dream what you want to dream, go where you want to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you want to do.
9. A careless word may kindle strife; a cruel word my wreck a life; a timely word may level stress; a loving word may heal and bless.
10. The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
11. Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried. For only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.
12. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go on well in life until you let go of all your past failure and heartaches.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Passing The Time Away...
It's December 17th, 2009. The time is now 10:35pm and I once again find myself sitting in an airport...passing the time away. And what better time than now to blog about stuff, especially since I have another hour to go before my flight leaves. I guess this may be one of those blogs where I look at things that have been going on over the past bit of time. I mean, it's been a while since my last post. Not that anyone is really reading this, but still, I like to think that I have a following. It makes it worthwhile...even if it's just one.
So here's the skinny of my most recent endeavors over the past few months:
1. Back in late August through early September, I made a trip to Denver for two weeks. My company decided they wanted to invest in me and introduce me to a new ERP system. So I flew to Colorado and went through two weeks of crash course training. It wasn't all work though. I met some interesting people (none of whom I have spoken to since the training) and got a chance to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of The Mile High City. To add to it, my anniversary was at the end of the month, so I flew my wife up and we celebrated up there. It was a good way to celebrate. Two years straight we've been somewhere other than home during our anniversary. Sounds like the start of a good tradition if you ask me. Definitely one that I'd like to keep going if I have it my way. (Some girl just walked past with her lips all poked out, looking like she's hung over, and squeezing her belly fat. Now she's just shaking it like a drunken Santa Claus. Hey, I said I was in an airport.) Needless to say, the Denver trip was good and it set me up for the next thing that took place.
2. So after I finished my two weeks in Denver, I was "stationed" in Boca Raton, FL. This place could probably best be described as the retirement community for the rich. All you see there are high-end cars, well dressed individuals in them, and dogs no bigger than chipmunks wearing t-shirts and scarfs that probably cost more than my winter coat. Yes, it's that type of place. Luckily, the beach was close by (which I never saw), and the only saving grace was Florida-Internal University which was down the street. They helped supply the youth of the place, so it didn't turn out to be all that bad. Overall, the project wasn't all that bad, and the location wasn't that bad either. I didn't get out that much as I normally would, but I made the best of it anyway. I was there for about a month and then I ended up leaving and heading off elsewhere.
3. I forgot to add that I started a little side gig somewhere between Denver and Boca. I now have gus4 Photography! I got started in photography a while ago; you can check the blog out here. But I decided to move it to a business a few months ago. I've had a few good clients, and I've learned a lot with them. They've helped me progress and develop my "eye".
4. I took a week off and went to Thailand. It was a much needed vacation (this came after my time in Boca). I actually saw a few new places that I hadn't seen from my first trip there. We landed in Bangkok and also traveled to Hua Hin. Big beach, open water and all the smiling a person can stand. Though I only saw the beach once, it was still worth the trip. I also visited a lot of the night markets and bazaars while I was there. This place is awesome when it comes to shopping! You can negotiate just about anything! Just try not to be TOO greedy. Sometimes you can lose yourself thinking that a number is too high, and you forget to convert it to your personal currency and you end up walking away from a really good deal that you would otherwise not come close to having back at home. Uaintnevalied racks up when she's there, and did so again this trip. Her mom made out like a bandit! After a week, it was time to return back home for me, while the rest stayed behind for a few more days.
5. So after I return back, I get changed to another project. San Francisco. Fun place, lots to do and see, and some of the best skyline pictures you can imagine. Let's not forget the Golden Gate. Aside from the red-eye flights, it's a pretty good gig. I have an awesome team I'm working with, and everyone gets along pretty well.
And that brings us back to here. My flight tonight has me taking a 3-hour layover in Las Vegas. I've already had dinner, won about $60 in a slot machine in the airport (don't ask me how I did it), and I'm now awaiting the plane while watching people walk by and realizing that booze, gambling and prostitutes do not go well for some people while they are here (and this poor girl is still walking around shaking her belly fat...what's up with that?!?). Needless to say, I'm having a good time while I'm sitting here. The array of individuals passing before me are providing an endless amount of hidden giggles and chuckles that I may no longer be able to contain. What more can I say...it's Vegas!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Patriotism At Its Finest
When I was a kid, July 4th meant several things. Perhaps a new outfit, going to see family or have family coming over, lots of BBQ that I probably wasn't going to see again until Memorial or Labor Day (depending on which one came after...I don't know and don't feel like looking it up to make this accurate) and shooting fireworks. Not those crappy kind that you get in some states due to law restrictions, but those good ones back in Alabama. The ones that could launch forever and a day skyward and then suddenly explode and leave paper residue all over the neighborhood and nobody cared because all of their kids were doing the same thing. And besides, the parents knew they were going to have their kids out their cleaning up the yard the next day anyway. You never really thought about the flag, or the country you lived in, it was all just a party of the July 4th experience. You were young, eating as much sticky / gooey / saucy meat you could get your hands on, and trying to blow up your siblings with as many skyrockets as you could tie together.
As you grow older, things start to change a bit. You may get a new outfit, but it's more for showing out and keeping up with the Jones's (for some). You're still eating for the same reasons, but now you're trying to get to as many BBQ's as possible because you want to sample and be seen (again...for some. Most of us are just trying to get as much free food as possible without having to cook ourselves). If you're shooting fireworks, it's because the last place you ended up in at night had kids over and they drug you outside with sparklers. Else you watched it from the comfort of your TV or attended some major fireworks production in your current location.
On July 4th, 2009, I experienced something a little different. I got a chance to witness the very thing that got our nation going, an event that tends to bring tears to the eyes of those that witness and definitely those that partake. I drove my brother-in-law and his wife to her naturalization ceremony. For those of you who don't know, this is were a foreigner swears their allegiance to the United States and (after a long and drawn-out paperwork process) becomes a U.S. citizen. She was one of 100+ people that had come to this country and realized how great it is to be an American, and all the advantages that are here and available to all of us. The ceremony was short (compared to the overall time it took to do everything), but meaningful to all who attended. There was a welcome from President Obama, videos of things that make America Beautiful, and videos on the history of what makes this nation the place that it is. They played "America the Beautiful" to a video they were showing, and the emotion in the room was something to behold. Granted, those that were just sworn in had a few tears, but many of their family and friends, those who were already citizens, were in tears, standing up with their hands over their hearts and even saluting. Even more surprising were the emotions by those who had held and/or sponsored the event on some many previous occassions. Many of them were overcome with emotion and doing their best to hide it. It made me feel good to know that even though we're not in the best of times, people still feel strongly in their nation, in what it stands for, and that America is definitely a place to come and try to make something of yourself.
This was all the more confirmed when, at the end of the ceremony, my brother-in-law's wife came out with the biggest smile on her face and her naturalization certificate. She proudly waved the little American flag they gave her and both she and her husband proudly stood under another flag and took pictures...grinning harder than I've ever seen them grin before.
I can't help but wonder what our nation would be like if more people considered stuff like this and viewed their country in this same manner. Perhaps we wouldn't be where we are today afterall. In either case, God Bless America!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
My Day in the Airport
So I'm currently in Charlotte, NC waiting on my flight to get here. I figured now would be as good a time as any to sit down and relax a bit, maybe even reflect a little on my past week. As I start this recollection, I can't help but think that I should probably blog some of the events of this week, which has proven to have a very odd-ball start, but will prayerful turn out to have a pretty good ending.
So the first thing that comes to mind is that I'm struggling to find a power outlet to plug my laptop in. This airport sucks when it comes to that. I'm going to give the benefit of the doubt to the fact that these things (airports) were probably constructed back in the day before laptops were major items and definitely before consultants dominated a significant chunk of airport traffic. Luckily I've found one...but we'll come back to this point a bit later.
So this past Monday, I start my normal travel routine: my alarm goes off at 4a.m., and I'm in the shower getting ready so I can leave and head to the airport between 5:15 and 5:30a.m. I'm doing better this week than I did last week 'cause (1) I didn't oversleep and (2) I packed up and was ready to go the night before. I normally pack the clothes I need for the week (obviously) as well as a pair of gym clothes 'cause I'm trying to make sure that UAintNevaLied doesn't have to roll me out of the house. So I lock up, jump in the car and hit the road and then it starts...
Strike 1. I suddenly remembered that I left my gym shoes at home. So I can't very well get my workout on in a pair of dress shoes, and going barefoot on the treadmill isn't going to cut it. So no major workouts like that taking place this week. Which, consequently, means that I've got to eat like a bird this week to compensate for the lack of the cardio.
Strike 2. On the way to the airport (remember, this is 5a.m. and I start boarding at 6:30), I hear what I think is something hitting my car as I travel 70mph (yes, dear, I was doing 70!), so I pass it over as nothing and keep on going. When I'm about half a mile away from the parking location, I start hearing a puffing noise, and I'm assuming it's my muffler. Notice I say assume. When I come to a start and to idle, I don't hear it any more, but when I go in gear and start taking off, there it is again...so now, my concern grows greater, and as soon as I get into my parking spot and get out of the car, there's my tire...flat as hell!! Do I have AAA (that's Triple A for those of you who don't know)? Yes, I do. Do I have time to call them and have them come fix it? No...
Now let me take a brief moment to clarify something. Yes, I know I am a grown man and a grown man should be able to fix his own tire, or at least change it if need be. I can do that, BUT DAMNIT, I'M PAYING FOR THE SERVICE...so I want my money's worth. You feel the same, trust me.
...I don't have time to call them because I need to get into the airport and make my flight. The car is parked and isn't going anywhere, so I'm expecting it to be right there when I get back.
Strike 3. To add to the misery, when we get on the plane and get in the air, it becomes quite clear that someone is funky as hell. I'm talking the kind of funk that makes you have to put in eyedrops because your cornea is burning. But to give you an accurate account of how funky...you know how there's usually a stewardess (or steward) that sits at the back of the plane to service the guests back there. She got up, covered her nose, and sat at the front of the plane the whole time next to another passenger. DA-YUM!! And of course, I'm back there clawing at the hatch that releases the oxygen, with absolutely no luck.
Strike 4. I'd think things would get better considering I've already struck out. Not. Before I give strike four, I will admit that my work week wasn't all to bad. Considering that I had a few items to play catch-up on, I was still at least able to put up two blogs this week, get a new lens for me camera (see previous blog) and just enjoy the fact that I've been blessed with peace. I got a call regarding some craziness on Wednesday night, but that doesn't count. All in all, a good work week.
HOWEVER, once I get to the airport, where I am now, I realize that I'm being checked out on the sly. Now keep in mind, I've found a hole to crawl into to get to a power cord. Some dude, who's hair is done up like a freakin' sunflower, from another country, wearing a ring with two hearts on it (yes, you can probably guess where I'm going with this), and that has on blush (yes...blush), has decided that he's going to come charge his phone. I don't have a problem with this, really I don't. However, slick here decides to "gracefully" slide down across from me and - thinking that I can't see him peripherally - begins signaling his "friends" that he's close to me and looking me up and down...so much so that he extends his "hearty" hand as if to see if I'd acknowledge and reciprocate his gesture.
Negative, Ghost Rider...the pattern is full!! (from Top Gun...good movie)
I don't say anything. I've put myself in such focus to my computer screen it isn't funny. I'm probably going to need glasses I've got this screen so close to my face right now. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against anyone's sexual preferences...but damnit don't sit next to me smelling like you dove head first into Chanel No. 1-5 and are grinin' like you don't know what to do with yourself. Knowing my luck this week though, I'll probably end up right next to him on the plane. Hell, I'll pay the $50 to go to first class in that case!!
Strike 5: I still have to fix this flat tire after I land.
Man, I never knew it was possible to have 5 strikes in one inning. And to think...I still have two days left in this week.
So the first thing that comes to mind is that I'm struggling to find a power outlet to plug my laptop in. This airport sucks when it comes to that. I'm going to give the benefit of the doubt to the fact that these things (airports) were probably constructed back in the day before laptops were major items and definitely before consultants dominated a significant chunk of airport traffic. Luckily I've found one...but we'll come back to this point a bit later.
So this past Monday, I start my normal travel routine: my alarm goes off at 4a.m., and I'm in the shower getting ready so I can leave and head to the airport between 5:15 and 5:30a.m. I'm doing better this week than I did last week 'cause (1) I didn't oversleep and (2) I packed up and was ready to go the night before. I normally pack the clothes I need for the week (obviously) as well as a pair of gym clothes 'cause I'm trying to make sure that UAintNevaLied doesn't have to roll me out of the house. So I lock up, jump in the car and hit the road and then it starts...
Strike 1. I suddenly remembered that I left my gym shoes at home. So I can't very well get my workout on in a pair of dress shoes, and going barefoot on the treadmill isn't going to cut it. So no major workouts like that taking place this week. Which, consequently, means that I've got to eat like a bird this week to compensate for the lack of the cardio.
Strike 2. On the way to the airport (remember, this is 5a.m. and I start boarding at 6:30), I hear what I think is something hitting my car as I travel 70mph (yes, dear, I was doing 70!), so I pass it over as nothing and keep on going. When I'm about half a mile away from the parking location, I start hearing a puffing noise, and I'm assuming it's my muffler. Notice I say assume. When I come to a start and to idle, I don't hear it any more, but when I go in gear and start taking off, there it is again...so now, my concern grows greater, and as soon as I get into my parking spot and get out of the car, there's my tire...flat as hell!! Do I have AAA (that's Triple A for those of you who don't know)? Yes, I do. Do I have time to call them and have them come fix it? No...
Now let me take a brief moment to clarify something. Yes, I know I am a grown man and a grown man should be able to fix his own tire, or at least change it if need be. I can do that, BUT DAMNIT, I'M PAYING FOR THE SERVICE...so I want my money's worth. You feel the same, trust me.
...I don't have time to call them because I need to get into the airport and make my flight. The car is parked and isn't going anywhere, so I'm expecting it to be right there when I get back.
Strike 3. To add to the misery, when we get on the plane and get in the air, it becomes quite clear that someone is funky as hell. I'm talking the kind of funk that makes you have to put in eyedrops because your cornea is burning. But to give you an accurate account of how funky...you know how there's usually a stewardess (or steward) that sits at the back of the plane to service the guests back there. She got up, covered her nose, and sat at the front of the plane the whole time next to another passenger. DA-YUM!! And of course, I'm back there clawing at the hatch that releases the oxygen, with absolutely no luck.
Strike 4. I'd think things would get better considering I've already struck out. Not. Before I give strike four, I will admit that my work week wasn't all to bad. Considering that I had a few items to play catch-up on, I was still at least able to put up two blogs this week, get a new lens for me camera (see previous blog) and just enjoy the fact that I've been blessed with peace. I got a call regarding some craziness on Wednesday night, but that doesn't count. All in all, a good work week.
HOWEVER, once I get to the airport, where I am now, I realize that I'm being checked out on the sly. Now keep in mind, I've found a hole to crawl into to get to a power cord. Some dude, who's hair is done up like a freakin' sunflower, from another country, wearing a ring with two hearts on it (yes, you can probably guess where I'm going with this), and that has on blush (yes...blush), has decided that he's going to come charge his phone. I don't have a problem with this, really I don't. However, slick here decides to "gracefully" slide down across from me and - thinking that I can't see him peripherally - begins signaling his "friends" that he's close to me and looking me up and down...so much so that he extends his "hearty" hand as if to see if I'd acknowledge and reciprocate his gesture.
Negative, Ghost Rider...the pattern is full!! (from Top Gun...good movie)
I don't say anything. I've put myself in such focus to my computer screen it isn't funny. I'm probably going to need glasses I've got this screen so close to my face right now. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against anyone's sexual preferences...but damnit don't sit next to me smelling like you dove head first into Chanel No. 1-5 and are grinin' like you don't know what to do with yourself. Knowing my luck this week though, I'll probably end up right next to him on the plane. Hell, I'll pay the $50 to go to first class in that case!!
Strike 5: I still have to fix this flat tire after I land.
Man, I never knew it was possible to have 5 strikes in one inning. And to think...I still have two days left in this week.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Snap Happy
For my last birthday, my then fiancée gave me a Canon Rebel XTi, and I’ve been snap happy ever since. I probably took that thing with me just about everywhere I went for the first several months of having it. I’d even pack it with me when I went to church. Taking pictures is something that I enjoy doing and something I’ve been doing just for the hell of it since I was in high school.
I remember I was using a Kodak 35mm when I was in school. It was the kind that flipp
ed up from the middle, and the flash was hidden when it was folded down. I can’t say that my pictures were that great, but I snapped up just about everything I could. My shots were normally of people, those that I thought were friends at the time, and trips, events, or other situations that I may have been around at the time. I can honestly say that during that point in time, most of the photography I was doing was simply to capture memories of my experiences and the people who may have been involved with them.
This probably set the stage, ‘cause a month later I was presented my XTi and an expectatio
n of getting good enough to probably do something (financially) with my photography was put out there. Since then, I’ve been trying to set the stage. I began reading up on digital photography, and have since then learned that there is SOO much to it…learning about f-stops, aperture, focal lengths, etc. Even my editing skills were getting challenged as I learned more about the capabilities of the software programs I used. However, more importantly, my pictures began changing. I’m a lot more open to the pictures I take. I still take pics of friends and family, but they have a different feel and quality to them. I try to keep them more candid, but with a much more natural feel to them. I’ve started looking at photographs in magazines differently now, and I find myself asking “How did they take this shot? What were the settings?” From there, I try to recreate it if possible. I really enjoy getting scenic shots…not just of landscapes (though a nice day when the sun is setting makes for a great shot and a peaceful mood), but also of city landscapes - especially at night. I definitely got into back in my Olympus days, but a better camera and editing software make for awesome shots that can take you places…or so I’ve been told and I’ve felt from pictures I’ve seen.
I remember I was using a Kodak 35mm when I was in school. It was the kind that flipp
ed up from the middle, and the flash was hidden when it was folded down. I can’t say that my pictures were that great, but I snapped up just about everything I could. My shots were normally of people, those that I thought were friends at the time, and trips, events, or other situations that I may have been around at the time. I can honestly say that during that point in time, most of the photography I was doing was simply to capture memories of my experiences and the people who may have been involved with them.
This carried on into my ea
rlier college years, where the same style seemed to show up in my shots. I guess at the time, I didn’t even view it as a hobby, just something to do…be in a place, see folks around, and snap the shot. It was as simple as that. The weird thing is that I started getting compliments on some of the pictures I took. I never thought much about it, but I guess that subconsciously it caused me to start “thinking” about the shots I was taking, and how they looked before I took them. I’ll admit that the ones I took then, at least the better ones, were often results of dumb luck. Still, they were mine and I took them. Over time, I moved from taking posed shots (still very much amateurish) to more candid shots. I don’t know why, but I moved to a stage of wanting to have the camera catch things “just happening”. It seemed more real then, and appeared to have more of an impact to memory than something that seemed “phony”.
By this time, I had moved from the Kodak 35mm to an Olympus D560. It was a fun camera to use. The pictures were normally okay, but the quality was better. I had no idea at the time of serious photography lingo, just the simple “see it, shoot it, print it”. I’m sure you can imagine that the pics often looked grainy, washed out, and often blurry. But still, a lot of them came out okay, and I started learning my camera more, and that’s when things started to change. I played with settings, resolution settings, using the timer and tripods, and the pictures got better. Still, my focus was people at the time, but there was a feeling of becoming more “seasoned.
rlier college years, where the same style seemed to show up in my shots. I guess at the time, I didn’t even view it as a hobby, just something to do…be in a place, see folks around, and snap the shot. It was as simple as that. The weird thing is that I started getting compliments on some of the pictures I took. I never thought much about it, but I guess that subconsciously it caused me to start “thinking” about the shots I was taking, and how they looked before I took them. I’ll admit that the ones I took then, at least the better ones, were often results of dumb luck. Still, they were mine and I took them. Over time, I moved from taking posed shots (still very much amateurish) to more candid shots. I don’t know why, but I moved to a stage of wanting to have the camera catch things “just happening”. It seemed more real then, and appeared to have more of an impact to memory than something that seemed “phony”.By this time, I had moved from the Kodak 35mm to an Olympus D560. It was a fun camera to use. The pictures were normally okay, but the quality was better. I had no idea at the time of serious photography lingo, just the simple “see it, shoot it, print it”. I’m sure you can imagine that the pics often looked grainy, washed out, and often blurry. But still, a lot of them came out okay, and I started learning my camera more, and that’s when things started to change. I played with settings, resolution settings, using the timer and tripods, and the pictures got better. Still, my focus was people at the time, but there was a feeling of becoming more “seasoned.
After graduating and entering the real world, I just about took my Olympus wherever I went. I star
ted shooting not only people then, but the objects / buildings / locations of where I was currently working. And I took them around different times of day and in different ways, looking for different angles and different setups – particularly night shots of the bigger cities I worked in. I moved on to editing my pictures using various editing programs, and that made a HUGE difference. At a friend’s wedding, I took some pictures – mainly because my then fiancée was the bride’s maid – but I was trying to take them differently than just shooting straight on. I was catching reflections in mirrors, and shooting individuals in mirrors from the reflection of mirrors (think about it and it’ll make sense).
ted shooting not only people then, but the objects / buildings / locations of where I was currently working. And I took them around different times of day and in different ways, looking for different angles and different setups – particularly night shots of the bigger cities I worked in. I moved on to editing my pictures using various editing programs, and that made a HUGE difference. At a friend’s wedding, I took some pictures – mainly because my then fiancée was the bride’s maid – but I was trying to take them differently than just shooting straight on. I was catching reflections in mirrors, and shooting individuals in mirrors from the reflection of mirrors (think about it and it’ll make sense).
This probably set the stage, ‘cause a month later I was presented my XTi and an expectatio
n of getting good enough to probably do something (financially) with my photography was put out there. Since then, I’ve been trying to set the stage. I began reading up on digital photography, and have since then learned that there is SOO much to it…learning about f-stops, aperture, focal lengths, etc. Even my editing skills were getting challenged as I learned more about the capabilities of the software programs I used. However, more importantly, my pictures began changing. I’m a lot more open to the pictures I take. I still take pics of friends and family, but they have a different feel and quality to them. I try to keep them more candid, but with a much more natural feel to them. I’ve started looking at photographs in magazines differently now, and I find myself asking “How did they take this shot? What were the settings?” From there, I try to recreate it if possible. I really enjoy getting scenic shots…not just of landscapes (though a nice day when the sun is setting makes for a great shot and a peaceful mood), but also of city landscapes - especially at night. I definitely got into back in my Olympus days, but a better camera and editing software make for awesome shots that can take you places…or so I’ve been told and I’ve felt from pictures I’ve seen.
(Surfer's Paradise, Australia and W. Kerr Scott Reservoir - Wilkesboro, NC)
So I guess it’s definitely become more of a hobby now, but it’s more than just that. I really enjoy it, and I like catching moments that seem almost as grand as they are if you were there in person…or presenting a feeling that can make you wish you were there. I’m still an amateur, don’t get me wrong, but I don’t feel as much as a novice as I once did. I can’t thank my wife enough for helping bring me into this. She knows this more than anything I guess, ‘cause she has – more than she’d probably like – been the subject of my focus. But considering she’s the most beautiful thing on Earth to me, why wouldn’t I take aim? I’m still hoping and working towards that one day that I’ll be able to bring in a little something-something for this fun hobby, but until then I’ll just keep having fun with what I do and learning more to get better at it as I go along. And who knows, maybe I’ll continue to sneak a few into my blog.
So I guess it’s definitely become more of a hobby now, but it’s more than just that. I really enjoy it, and I like catching moments that seem almost as grand as they are if you were there in person…or presenting a feeling that can make you wish you were there. I’m still an amateur, don’t get me wrong, but I don’t feel as much as a novice as I once did. I can’t thank my wife enough for helping bring me into this. She knows this more than anything I guess, ‘cause she has – more than she’d probably like – been the subject of my focus. But considering she’s the most beautiful thing on Earth to me, why wouldn’t I take aim? I’m still hoping and working towards that one day that I’ll be able to bring in a little something-something for this fun hobby, but until then I’ll just keep having fun with what I do and learning more to get better at it as I go along. And who knows, maybe I’ll continue to sneak a few into my blog.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
I've Been Tagged, Too!
Well, it appears as though I've been tagged by UAintNevaLied. I'm a fair sport, so here's the rules:
A). Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
B). Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself.
C). Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
D). Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
A). Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
B). Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself.
C). Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
D). Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
Without further TO-DO, here are Seven Random High Fidelity Facts:
- I have two degrees that have absolutely nothing to do with each other. I initially graduated from Alabama A&M University with a degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. The idea was to go into medicine, but I changed my mind after graduation when I saw where the medical field was headed. So I went to the University of Alabama and graduated with a degree in Computer Engineering and minors in Computer Science and Mathematics. Who knew?
- My birthmark looks like the state of West Virginia. So there's this birthmark on the back of my neck that apparently looks like the state of West Virginia...or so I've been told. My geography and topography sucks, so I'll take your word for it, mom.
- Collecting mechanical pencils used to be a vice. Okay, this one is weird, I know, but it's true. I used to have all kinds - thick, thin, multiple colors, etc. But I've narrowed it down to normal to medium sized barrels that have the thin, twistable, replaceable erasers. I also have a few drafting pencils as well. Between the two I only use .5 and .3 as any other size is too big or small. Hey, don't judge me. Like I said, this was a "used to be a vice", remember?
- My hobby is collecting pennants. Okay, this one is more unique. Ever since I was a kid, I collected pennants - flags - from the places that I would visit. It could be schools that I liked, or places (i.e. Six Flags, Zoo's, landmarks, etc.). I would normally stay away from team pennants, but I've found moreso now that pennants aren't really made like they used to be, except for team stuff. So now, I get a team pennant to represent where I've been...normally for every new state or city I visit. I may have to start collection country flags for new countries I visit...I dunno, man.
- I stay up late but with reason. Okay, though the reason may not make sense to any of you, here it is. I feel as though I'm missing stuff when I go to bed early, even if I'm doing nothing but watching TV or looking at the computer. Part of me feels as though I've spent most of the day inside an office, and that's 8+ hours that have passed me by and I haven't gotten to do what I want to do, and not necessarily have to do. For those of you who like to be asleep by the time the street lamps come on, ignore this one.
- I played trumpet in high school. Yep...it's true. I actually played from 5th grade until I graduated. Little known fact...trumpet players make great kissers.
- I talk in my sleep. I pray that my wife gets adjusted to this as I can foresee her waking one night and smothering me because I won't shut up. The sad part...I actually woke up one night to my own discussion. Even worse...I finished my sentence after I was awake and completely aware that I was doing it.
So there you have it. My 7 random facts. I only know one person to pass this two at the moment that hasn't received it. Man...I gotta find some new contacts on this thing.
Here you go, "cuzo": LifesABeach
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