Momentarily...still lilfe

I have already learned much but understand that I am crawling my way up the steep side of the learning curve with the very real possibility of sliding back down it at any given moment.

However, it is exciting to learn new skills by modeling techniques used by more competent photographers that are eager to share their experience with beginners.

The theme for the March competition is Still Life.

Still life? I associate this with studio work, in which objects are beautifully arranged for form, color, and especially lighting. Somehow, I just do not see me, an outdoorsy, nature lady, arranging vases, fruit, flowers, rich fabrics, or other traditional still life items, nor do I have a studio or lighting equipment.

I like a challenge! I pondered how to create a composition that might fit into the still life category, but still reflect my interests, using natural items and lighting. In a flash of inspiration, or perhaps desperation, I realized that the ocean could be a generous source of still life objects to a beachcomber like me.

Now, I have a valid excuse for picking up shells, sea beans, driftwood, coquina rock and other flotsam and jetsam that I have accumulated over numerous beach walks. Instead of a studio, perhaps I can artfully arrange these gifts from the sea right on the sand, in their natural setting?

Since I am probably missing the one, perfect item that will tie my composition together, I am required, I believe, to spend much time searching for it on the beach this weekend.

Stay tuned to see if this works out, or not.

In the meantime, I uploaded a photo that captures a somewhat different meaning of “still” life. Lyn

I am not going too far from my beloved ocean beaches in New Smyrna Beach; the new home is just four blocks away from the Atlantic, but right on the Indian River Lagoon. I hope that being so close to the Lagoon will encourage me to do more kayaking and fishing in the near future. At least, that is the plan.

Moving is exciting, tedious, and time-consuming all at once. I look forward to being settled in my new place, exploring my new surroundings, and getting to know new neighbors. On the other hand, there is the packing, the cleaning, and the changes of address to everyone I can remember, knowing that something important will be forgotten or misplaced, or not done on time, or that someone will not be notified. This will inevitably happen, despite lists, preparation, checking and double checking.

Strangely, I found that although most of my belongings are in boxes, I have not really missed any of them, and I only went looking for two packed items over the last two weeks. Logically, this means that I can survive quite comfortably with a lot less.

I vow, when unpacking, to look long and hard at each item before deciding whether it stays, or goes to a thrift shop or Free Cycle. (We have a very active Free Cycle group in New Smyrna Beach.)

The cats and I will adapt nicely to the move, as we have done so many times before… but I will be VERY happy when it is over! Until then, wish me luck and patience. Lyn