Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Warning: Not a Spectator Sport

Some fellow photographers may know what this is about. Usually, I take a few days around New Year's to go somewhere alone, do some shooting and enjoy the solitude. Due to other obligations this year I was limited to one day, so my wife wanted to come along and not let me have all the fun. We drove out to the Imperial Dunes near the Arizona border and I had (brilliantly, I thought) brought along a beach towel to set my equipment on in order to keep it off the sand while working, but she found it convenient to use for a nap after I had been working in one spot for a bit too long. I used her little pocket point-and-shoot to take this.
I wonder how many photographers prefer working alone as opposed to those who prefer having some company? It's definitely nice to have someone on the long drives (I like to work in some pretty remote places) or in the evening, but it's always in the back of my mind that someone's waiting for me if they're along while I'm shooting. Maybe it's just the type of place I like to work that makes it difficult. My wife keeps her own blog (in Japanese) about life in California and she's always looking for interesting new material, so she appreciates this process more than some would, I guess.
By the way, these dunes are a great photo destination in the winter when the temperature is very pleasant and the sun goes down early.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sometimes I wish my husband would join me, but he wouldn't be bothered. My mom, however, enjoys getting out and tags along occasionally! I have noticed though, that I'm almost rushing to get all the photos I want instead of taking all the time in the world... because I don't want to keep her waiting. (She doesnt' mind). I guess I have a love-hate thing when it comes to tag-alongs! :-)

roentare said...

It is easier to compose and think doing photography alone. Even with photography friends, it can be tough due to differences in approach, style and perspective

Mark Alan Meader said...

Yeah, I have never been interested in "group shoot" activities. I have my own pace and interests, and it seems strange for a bunch of people to stand around shooting the same thing at the same time.. kind of defeats the whole purpose for me, but I understand if some people enjoy it.

AVCr8teur said...

I find it easier going on shoots with other photographers, but shooting in isolated places like the one in your photo will result in similar photographs which isn't good idea either.

Gaurav said...

I liked this photos in many perceptive. Sand always can be a great subject but you make it different, really liked your work!

Anonymous said...

I take most of my photos while on walks with my husband and Lucy the dog. I'm always lagging behind, knowing that they're waiting for me (Lucy stops and waits if I'm out of her sight) so the picture-taking is always rushed. Fast and blurry pics could be my trademark! Nice photo of your wife and the dunes. :o)

Cheryl Ann said...

You know, I really like to go out by myself! That way, I can take my time and go where I want! Come check out my desert blog: http://desertswest.blogspot.com/ All of my other blogs are linked to this one. And, YES, I DO have a regular job! I found you on blog roll tonight. I'm in Southern California.

Yayoi Doho said...

Hello. I came from the blog of your wife in Japanese. It is interesting that you write you each other. I'll come to visit sometimes from Barcelona.

Mark Alan Meader said...

Hi yayoikabuki: Thanks for stopping by.. Come back any time!