Enduring Landscape
This black and white photograph captures a timeless scene of resilience and simplicity. An old, weathered grain drill stands proudly in the foreground, its large wheels and sturdy frame a testament to the hard work of generations past. Beyond it, the rugged landscape unfolds—rolling hills and a dramatic, rocky bluff rise against a vast sky, where clouds drift lazily, casting soft shadows over the earth.
There is a quiet strength in this image, a reminder of the enduring connection between humanity and the land. The grain drill, though aged, symbolizes the determination to cultivate and create, even in the harshest conditions. The landscape, with its untamed beauty, whispers of perseverance—nature’s unyielding spirit mirrored in the tools we have built to work alongside it.
This black and white photograph captures a timeless scene of resilience and simplicity. An old, weathered grain drill stands proudly in the foreground, its large wheels and sturdy frame a testament to the hard work of generations past. Beyond it, the rugged landscape unfolds—rolling hills and a dramatic, rocky bluff rise against a vast sky, where clouds drift lazily, casting soft shadows over the earth.
There is a quiet strength in this image, a reminder of the enduring connection between humanity and the land. The grain drill, though aged, symbolizes the determination to cultivate and create, even in the harshest conditions. The landscape, with its untamed beauty, whispers of perseverance—nature’s unyielding spirit mirrored in the tools we have built to work alongside it.
Over the years, I have captured several photographs that I aspire to display on my wall. While not all of my photographs, whether film or digital, resonate with me, this particular one stands out. It exudes a profound sense of endurance and an unwavering determination to never give up.
The camera, akin to the antiquated grain drill depicted in the photograph, exhibits simplicity yet functionality. Contrary to the notion that substantial investment in specialized equipment is prerequisite for capturing photographs that resonate with an audience, this image was captured using a Proud Chrome Six, an inexpensive camera I acquired from a camera lot a few months ago and captured on Kentmere100, a somewhat inexpensive medium format film.
Photographers, including myself, often prioritize acquiring the most advanced equipment. However, the true essence of photography lies not in the gear itself, but in the subjective experience of the photographer. It is the unique perspective, emotions, and composition that transform a simple image into an extraordinary capture. This realization holds profound significance for individuals with visual impairments, as it emphasizes the power of perception and the human spirit in creating remarkable art.
Episode 2 - Blind Photographer
In this episode of Blind Photography, I discuss the intersection between going blind and having a fervent love for photography. As my eyesight dwindles into emptiness, like on old cathode ray tube tv being turned off for the last time.
I also discuss photographing the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon on a recent camping trip. And, of course, I talk about the cameras I used on the trip and the lessons I learned along with way. The Vito IIa has become a tool I use to capture the world, not as I see it but as I hope it to look like.
In this episode of Blind Photography, I take some time to discuss what has been happening in our lives here in the stunningly beautiful and vast state of Arizona. I delve deeply into the experience of becoming legally blind and the myriad aftereffects that accompany such a significant life change. The support I have received from my family, friends, and strangers has truly surpassed anything that society itself has offered in terms of assistance and understanding. The fact that I am now legally blind is something that cannot be understated—it has reshaped my entire world. My cane, much like my phone, has become an essential tool that accompanies me everywhere I go, helping me navigate this new chapter in my life.
I want to pose a thought-provoking question to you, my audience: If your family and/or loved ones had to choose three meaningful things to place in a box that truly represent who you are, what do you think they would select?
After catching up on the realities of being blind, I transitioned into an exciting discussion about cameras, film, photography, and our little vacation to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, as well as our visit to the stunning Bryce Canyon in Utah. Of course, I took along the Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta with me; that camera chewed through medium format film faster than I could load it! I also brought my Proud Chrome Six, which I will be reviewing soon, and my beloved Voigtlander Vito IIa, an essential tool that has become nearly indispensable for this blind photographer.
I may not need to see the exposure settings, but I can feel the reassuring clicks and know precisely where the shutter speed and aperture settings are. I set it to infinity for most of my work, cock the shutter, and press the button. While it may not boast the best lens in the world, it is indeed fantastic for its time and does a remarkable job for a four-element lens.
In next week's episode, my lovely wife, Deana, will be joining me to answer some funny questions about what life is like with a blind man, or rather, her blind husband. It promises to be a wonderfully entertaining episode. If you have not subscribed to our channel already, I encourage you to do so! We have some incredibly exciting news coming your way soon that you won't want to miss.