Friday, April 1, 2011

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.








11 comments:

Mari Sterling Wilbur said...

Really important and wise words. It's nice to read your post, Phyllis.

Regards, Mari

Sebab said...

Lots of nice cameras!
Cruise Picture

Melissa Tandoc said...

you balance the blog page with your feminine touch phyllis...and i truly appreciate that...

it takes concentration to take great shots, nevertheless, relationships are more important :)...

i have to look at the photos again... they didn't load so well at first...

Rimly said...

Real words of wisdom. I am sometimes so engrossed in my writing and my laptop that sometimes I am completely lost and don't pay attention to what my son Ron is trying to tell me. I have to change that. Thank you Jim for sharing this.

Ann said...

Excellent new post! A great photos from a Red Sox game!

Jidhu Jose said...

awesome shots

Anonymous said...

Extremely nice camera included with this post. GREAT photos!! So nice to feel your presence Phyllis.

Unknown said...

I want to own one of those cameras. Awesome. Haha.

Aaron said...

Phyllis,
This is such a wonderful post! It really struck a cord with me. I find your closing remarks to be almost chilling in the truth it speaks.
Thank you for this post!
Aaron

JIM said...

I appreciate your kind words. These connections are just the point I was trying to make. Thanks a lot.

Phyllis

Melissa Tandoc said...

i was contemplating the pictures again... this time on our wide screen :P... and i was amazed that the photos phyllis took was the audience... and the "way they took pictures"... :P... different angles... natural, because they were unaware... ;)...

bellissime ;)