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A couple of days ago I decided I wanted to make this image—probably because I saw something somewhere that triggered the thought. But, I have been so busy and distracted that I continued to push the thought aside. Today, the thought wouldn't slip into the background. Regardless of what I attempted to concentrate on, the still shiny new 7D has been begging for attention, and my trusty 100mm 2.8L was begging to be called into service.
I resisted, reminding myself that I didn't have time to play; but, my resolve was weak. This afternoon, everything on the to-do list got shoved down a couple of notches and I had my fun. Yes, it's still all about animals at the moment. What can I say? This one, however,
was extremely patient about posing. Maybe I should reconsider the route I have taken.
What a fun (and challenging) project to work on!!! The 100mm gave it a nice, shallow depth and the subject is razor sharp. Once in a while the "distractions" have to be set aside and remind ourselves that we need to be creative, too. And now you have something to be proud of as well.
ReplyDeleteIt was fun. I often get busy and forget that while the macro lens is demanding for me—getting into those positions is often challenging—I love the results. If f/1.8 and 1.4 lenses weren't so expensive and so heavy, I might get carried away in that departement.
DeleteDistractions sometimes carry us straight to the target after all, don't they?
Not sure I would frown on play time. Some pretty darn good art comes during those times. And, I think we need to say to heck with to-do lists way more often. So, go ahead and play!!!
ReplyDeleteYou're right. Where would we be without some play time? I love the results of playing and following of inspiration you are posting on your blog.
DeletePlay time is great, Anita. Glad to hear that you're working a little bit into your daily life. :)
ReplyDeleteSometimes, I temporarily forget how vital playtime is. I know better; but, I get caught up getting all the work done. No play time and the work sufffers.
DeleteAnita, as children we learned so much through out play. As adults we often lose or perhaps give up much of that in the name of adulthood and responsibilities. One of the many things I love about photography is it still allow for play! Since I'm not a professional photography or am focused on any one subject matter, I consider almost all my photography efforts as playing. :-)
ReplyDeleteI find working with a very shallow DOF to be a real challenge. I have a 200mm f/4 micro lens that both regularly tempts me and drives me crazy because of the very shallow DOF it often provides with close ups.
Yes, indeed, play was the way we grew and it still is for me. I am always so annoyed with myself when I forget to make time for it. It almost never turns out well. Play on the other hand, so often leads to marvelous discoveries.
DeleteI know all too well what you mean about the challenges of the macro. Sometimes, no matter how I try, I cannot twist myself into the shape I need to assume to get the image I want. Other times, I can never quite nail that focus try after try. I refuse to give it up, but it isn't something I want to work on every day or two.