LOVING OUR CAMERAS - by PHYLLIS

While taking images at the Red Sox game, I thought of Galen Rowell. He used to say, "When you're working in the field, turn around and look behind you. You might find a better story!" Not one to ignore an inspiration, I immediately looked around and was struck by the amount of people holding cameras. These were not necessarily professional photographers, although there were a few present. These were everyday men, women and children who were excited to be part of something and worked hard to find a way to record it.

What I liked best about seeing them was no matter what tool they used; cell phones, point and shoots or high end DSLRs, each had a relationship that was tangible. Some shooters were shouting, "Yeah, that's it, I got it!" while others cursed about a missed shot. Cameras were caressed, coddled and shaken while given words of encouragement or blame. Watching people respond to their cameras, made me reflect on relationships, in general. It was clear how much humans now invest in their machinery. The emotions we once saved for friends, family and loved ones have been transferred to our tools of convenience. Who can't sight a friend or family member who is in love with their computer or software! When was the last time you looked into the eyes of a spouse or loved one for hours on end, while playfully attending to their needs. I suppose it's our reliance on technology that makes us so committed emotionally. But I wonder if a wife, brother or friend wouldn't appreciate hearing words of encouragement and support that we delegate to inanimate objects.

Well, it's food for thought. Next time you feel like hugging your computer, go to your spouse or child instead. Cameras help us document the trip but people make the trip worth taking.