My quite beloved camera, my battered workhouse, my creative partner, the Canon Mark III 5 D died yesterday, the auto focus stopped working and it seems the interior ring that connects the camera to the lenses is broken. I called Canon, and we went over the various problems – the camera is no longer reading the lenses that are attached at.

It would cost a fortune to ship and repair the camera, and also take too long for me, so with the blessing of the techs, I pronounced the camera dead and will retire it with much gratitude and appreciation.

I have taken a lot of good photos with this camera, it does make me sad to let it go. It was a real workhorse. The last photo it took was of Sifa, the refugee, in her apartment.

I’ve also dropped it a dozen times, it has been rained out a thousand times and dragged all over creation.

But life does happen, and it also continues. So I will plan my next move, probably involves trading in some lenses and hopping down to NYC to deal with B& H Photo, there are also some other very good deals online. I’m checking around.

I admit this hurts a bit, this camera was almost an organic part of me, we very much understood one another, and a camera is not a toy or hobby for me, it is a lifeline, and a critical creative tool. It helps me to see the world anew and to record my life.

I should say in case there is some confusion that I am not seeking any donations or funds from anyone to get another camera, nor can I accept any. The donations and contributions go to the refugees and the Mansion residents, and I would not be comfortable any other way. I will take care of getting another camera.

I’ll be  Iphone dependent for a few days or until I figure something out. I think I know the camera I want. I took the Beast, as I call it, outside to say thanks, I think I will keep it on my desk.

I couldn’t count the number of great photos I took with this camera. Thanks, Beast, you were great.