From the moment I held my father’s camera in my hands at the tender age of 12, a world of wonder and creativity unfurled before me. Little did I know that this simple gift would spark a lifelong passion for photography, leading me through various phases of life, from student to teacher, and ultimately back to the mesmerizing realm of analog photography.
A Glimpse into My Beginnings
The camera my father handed me that day was more than just a piece of equipment; it was a key to capturing moments, emotions, and stories. As I navigated through the world with that camera, I found joy in documenting everyday scenes that often went unnoticed. Those early snapshots were a testament to the power of a single click, the magic of preserving fleeting moments in time.
A Journey Through the Ages
As I grew, so did my connection with photography. In my student years, photography became a means of self-expression. I captured landscapes, candid portraits of friends, and snippets of my daily life. Those images hold the essence of my journey through education, shaping my visual storytelling skills.
As I transitioned into teaching, photography took on a new dimension. I became a mentor, guiding students in discovering their own visual voices. Watching their enthusiasm as they explored the art of capturing light reignited my passion. In those moments, I realized that photography is not just about the images themselves; it’s about fostering creativity and nurturing the artistry within.
The Digital Dive
In the midst of the digital revolution, I eagerly embraced the world of digital photography. The immediate feedback, the endless possibilities of post-processing, and the convenience of sharing images online held undeniable allure. Digital photography allowed me to experiment freely and broaden my horizons.
The Rediscovery of Analog
Yet, as time passed, something whispered within me, a longing for a deeper connection to the craft. It was then, about five years ago, that I embarked on a journey back to where it all began – analog photography, particularly the captivating world of wet plate.
The resurgence of analog in my life was akin to reuniting with an old friend. Each step of the wet plate process rekindled a sense of wonder – from sensitizing the plate to watching the image develop under the dim red light. The tactile nature of the medium, the patience it demanded, and the anticipation it ignited reminded me of the soulful journey inherent in photography.
Conclusion: A Continual Evolution
My love for photography, which began with my father’s camera, has woven itself into the very fabric of my being. It has accompanied me through different phases of my life, evolving as I evolved. From a curious 12-year-old to a student, teacher, and beyond, photography has been my constant companion.
The digital era enriched my technical prowess and expanded my creative toolkit, but it was the rekindling of my affair with analog that brought me full circle. Analog photography, particularly the tactile magic of wet plate, reminded me that the true essence of photography lies in the journey, the process, and the connection to the art.
As my journey continues, I find myself embracing both the digital and analog realms, each feeding into my passion in its own unique way. Photography, for me, is not just about capturing moments; it’s about celebrating life, embracing creativity, and honoring the stories that unfold before my lens.
