My photography has taken some twists and turns. One reason is my photo lessons with Christine Glade. It is good to learn about the camera. Another is my own evolution. Working with the genius George Forss the other day at the farm, I was reminded to never pose a photograph. It never works, and makes photographer and subject uncomfortable, I think.

Secondly, I am understanding the possibilities of different lenses. I’ve sold a bunch lenses off on E-bay and got a 35 mm, what they call a prime lens. No zooming, and it challenges me to think differently about the photos. It is my story lens. I am using it all day to get used to it. Since I can’t zoom, I have to think about where I am and what the camera is seeing. This photo is an example of a story photo. Because the lens is fixed I have to sense the scene – Maria and Mother heading off together to do barn chores. Have to step back, let Maria and Mother move.

Same with the photo below. I can talk all I want about barn chores, but better to tell the story. For the next few days I will be living in a 35 mm world. I think this is the lens I have been waiting for, as I am a story-teller.