(Click on the thumbnail for the bigger, better version)
Most photographers enjoy gear talk and there is quite a bit of chatter online about upgrades to cameras and gear. I got to thinking. If there were ever to be an upgrade on Anita (you know, the Anita Jesse Mark II, let's say), I just hope auto focus will be included on the next model. This old model is clunky to operate, at best.
Clunky in what ways, you ask. Well, you would think that I would be focused on the upcoming Art Show, since the work has to be hung April 16. Yet, here I am, not even close to wrapping all the work for the show, and I have veered off into yet other projects. Yesterday, I should have been clearing the studio of some of the junk that has accumulated in that room during the last several months. It is obvious that work space has to be cleared for the mounting and framing yet to be done. Still, was I focused on the show? No, of course not. I had the brilliant idea to try a new tutorial "just for a minutes of distraction and a bit of relaxation."
Well, one thing led to another and there went the day. Sure, I had a great time following one idea to the next, and then another. Heck, I enjoy the journey, even though I sometimes end up in a familiar place with only a slight new twist. The image above is one of those cases. At the same time, this is one of those pieces that I have worked on two or three different times and had never discovered where it wanted to go.
As always, it's the process that is exhilarating and satisfying. And, I won't kid you—I do enjoy the adrenalin high that comes with ideas popping. No doubt there is a downside for me. By the time I have worked until I'm bleary-eyed and there is no more adrenalin to pump, I am left worthless for about 48 hours. Only after I begin to recover can I fully enjoy the residual inspiration and sense of renewal.
Returning to the upgrade notion, maybe this Mark II version of Anita should have more power, as well. Longer-lasting batteries that don't wear out over the years, perhaps? It wouldn't hurt to include more memory, definitely an improved sensor, and maybe....
Will stay with Anita - Version Original / Version 1.
ReplyDeleteNo upgrade necessary!
Anil - How nice to hear from you and thanks for the kind vote of confidence—especially since there is no hint of a new model in the works!
ReplyDeleteSo, tell us. What were you experimenting with, Anita? It's a lovely portrait. As for an upgrade, I could do with a quick-charge circuit and higher ISO so that I could see better at night and, screw the auto focus, just regular focus would work! LOL
ReplyDeletePaul - I suppose that has to be the next post—more about the tutorial that set me off. Although, as I said, the results of that tutorial bear no resemblance to the image here.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of higher ISO. Why didn't I think of that? And a quick-charge circuit? Boy, I could use one of those on a regular basis.
Great photo, Anita. This is the stuff that makes a very nice poster on a large scale.
ReplyDeleteUpgrade? Everyone wants to be smarter, stronger, faster but wishing doesn't make it happen. You have within yourself to be the best you can be. Who can ask for more? Your work shows you don't need an upgrade.
Ken - I appreciate your comments on the photo. I hadn't thought about going large scale with this one, but you have me reconsidering.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it true about all our wants? And what we should be focused on is making the best of who we are. Maybe I will concentrate on new firmware. ;)
Anita, I'm still working to use just a small portion of the potential of Earl v1.0, I'm afraid new features might go to waste, and then who wants to read the new cryptic manual for the new version? Nope, I'll stay with what I know...it's just starting to get comfortable.
ReplyDeleteIf this image is part of the results of your recent tutorial then I say time well spent. The Art Show work will get done somehow.
The unfortunate traits of upgrades the expectation that another upgrade will be required next year. Practicing and playing is the way to go and with the equipment we have. Your quality of images and your writing don't seem to need any upgrades. I'm with Earl, the Art Show will get done somehow.
ReplyDeleteEarl - Somedays, I fear that I may be exhausting everything there is in the Anita v1.0. Then, there are the days when, as you, I know better. Still, the most important point you made regards the manual. Yikes, I hadn't thought about that. I couldn't face trying to digest that set of instructions and beginning again. Whew! What a relief to be stuck with this old version.
ReplyDeleteEventually, I will write about that tutorial and thanks for your comment on the the photo.
Monte - Yearly changes with manuals and quirky glitches that require firmware fixes. Ugh! I guess it is clear that I didn't think this through.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words, and you and Earl are right, of course. Slowly, but surely the preparations for the show are coming together.
Love your use of metaphor in this post Anita. Yes, I am quite sure all of us have desired a firmware upgrade, and occasionally a good virus scan. :-)
ReplyDeleteMark - I am glad you enjoyed this one. After the discussion here, I am definitely leaning toward firmware. Manuals for new models are a fright. Plus, that virus scan sounds quite promising.
ReplyDelete