What is it that makes someone me press the shutter? What is it about that moment that makes a photographer–I sound so swanky when I refer to myself that way–say, “Now”? As someone who got on WordPress to write, I take photos for the same reason I write. I want to capture something. I want to get it exactly like it was…a moment, a look, a conversation, an image.
Above image-Little Cottonwood Canyon near Alta Ski Resort, Salt Lake City, Utah.
This photo was my respite from an incredibly stressful funeral for my grandmother. Even late into the fall, it still held surprises as we drove further up the canyon. It was an escape.
Above image-a close-up of one of the oxygen tanks I used.
Cart around an oxygen tank for 2.5 years and you might find yourself taking its picture too. The oxygen, my regular companion–loathed and appreciated at the same time–was never something I saw in my future and never something I felt would ever be “normal” for me. It would always be an awkward appendage. This picture isn’t about irritation though. When I took it this was about acceptance.
Above image-a dear friend, in a cemetery.
What draws me to this picture is the warmth despite the winter trees, the bare branches and the fact that 20 feet away were acres of headstones. When photographing people I know, I am drawn to the idea of being able to capture “them.” Writing is the same way for me. When I write about people I know, I want the reader to see them the way I do. My friend S says “You always write me better than I am,” but that is how I see her.
Above image-a ghost town jail in Western Montana. This is where they would chain the prisoners to the floor.
The macro lens lets me see every grain of dirt in the floor, the scratches in the metal, and the grain in the wood. In the same cell there was a small window that looked up on the hill where the prisoners’ hanging would take place. When I look at this photo, I think of all the people that were attached to the metal and all the stories I don’t know.
Breathing Tales 
I’m always looking for detail, pattern, and interest in the seemingly uniteresting such as in your ghost town door.
That’s so great that you enjoy that as well! Thanks for taking the time to read my post.:)
These are all such beautiful pictures with amazing composition. I also write and take pictures 😛 Though I’m definitely a more developed writer than photographer.
What a lovely compliment! I appreciate it. This was my first attempt to combine 2 things I enjoy doing. Thanks for reading and good luck with your own writing and photography.
Really enjoyed this blog…. I love the detail too.. A rusty door handle, the grain of wood, drops of rain on a window…
Thanks susipet! I appreciate you reading. 🙂 I’m looking forward to checking out your blog.
Well thank you!