I just got back from a brief vacation in Argentina where I managed to squeeze in a few days for mountain climbing in the Andes. Getting to the peak of Mt. Aconcagua was a major thrill. Man, it was cold, but well worth it for the view. I would have included photos here, but using the Hassleblad H4-D60 for the first time was tricky and I am still working on the files. One of the best parts of the trip was the interesting people I met. A lovely couple invited me to visit them next year at their villa in Italy. Of course I jumped at the invitation. I think I can squeeze them in between the cruise on the Mediterranean and the African safari. The time in Italy will be interesting, since I don't speak Italian. But, I will get along just fine. I'm sure my iPad has an app to help me with that.
Okay, I splashed cold water on my face. I did go to Bakersfield twice in the past week, I did see nice people, plus I may have climbed a few stairs. And, it is true that I don't speak Italian. But, the part about the Hassleblad is created out of thin air. Maybe it was the altitude...No, Bakersfield is down from here, not up. Furthermore, if there is a safari, it will be local—very local—and the closest I will get to that cruise is watching a leaf boat on cub lake.
Isn't it lovely that fantasies don't cost anything? And they can not be taxed. At least not yet.
By the way, in the interest of full disclosure, the picture is a bit of fantasy, as well. Pieces of truth put together to produce a moment that never happened. I did take the photo of the hawk and I took the photo of clouds and trees on the horizon, but the photos were taken on different days, in different locations and then there are, of course, the textures. Excuse me, while I resume my daydreaming.
You had me going for a few lines there! "Blimey", I thought! It should have been the 1st of April.
ReplyDeleteOh my god, that eagle shot is plain amazing, too me at least. Reminds me of these ww2 paintings of war planes in combat situations. It's the sky and the colours that makes this scene just perfect. Fits the eagle's character well.
ReplyDeleteFantasies are really something to hold on to, and you really got me with this one. I'm easy to fool. :-) But hey, who tells you cannot climb a mountain with a walking frame, which btw has plenty of space in the front to room that Hassy.
Way to go, Anita, even if it was only a daydream.
First, what a wonderful curve of wing and glint of eye the hawk has in this image. Anita, you're finding a wonderful style of your own using these textures.
ReplyDeleteIMO, you divulge too much...this is an art piece, a creation of imagination much like a painting. It's whole is more then it's pieces. Sometimes the truth does not need to be broadcast but available freely for the asking.
The image appeals strongly to the free spirit side of me.
Now, get back to your travels...you've got to get the hang of that Hassleblad. :-)
A Hassy owner. I like that and will expect images from it later. For me, fantasies are scenes that will never happen but can be a lot of fun. While dreams are the ones we work on and strive to make into reality. Oh, and you did have me going for a moment.
ReplyDeleteColin - I never believed I could fool anyone through the first sentence. Wow! Be careful how you encourage me in my mischief. However the downside is that you may be suspicious of any tale I share from this point forward. I hope not.
ReplyDeleteOve - My husband has made reference to WWII bombers. You two had similar takes on this bird. I'm glad you like the clouds. I have been coming back to the basic shot for some time and was looking for a way to take it to that next level.
ReplyDeletePerhaps I had fun setting this up because I am always the one easily fooled. Your image of me scaling a mountain, a Hassy hanging on the walker, made me laugh. Love it!
Earl - Thank you for all your kind words about the image. Clearly, I am not growing tired of this type of work. It seems to suit me and I am delighted that you feel a connection with this one.
ReplyDeleteI also appreciate your thoughts on the story behind making the piece. In this case, I wanted to confess that, like the story, the image is fantasy; but, your thoughts have me considering my "policy" for the future. I like your position on this.
I may need help with this new camera. Are you available for advice—you know, just in case I get in trouble?
Monte - Wouldn't it be lovely if I could promise those pictures soon? It seems that I need both dreams and fantasies. Glad to hear I had you going for even a second or two.
ReplyDeleteThis is definitely a "WOW" shot! I agree with Ove, the eagle is amazing. I also agree with Earl about revealing too much about the post processing. While I have always found the technical info interesting, the person buying this print (you are going to put this in your next show, yes?) doesn't need to know such things and it may even distract them.
ReplyDeleteI'll gladly let you use my Hasselblad H4D-60 when I get it.
Ken - Thanks for all those kind words. Yes, I am now solidly in the camp with you and Earl regarding disclosure. And you can bet that this one will be included the next time I get to show new work. I like your positive thinking about that buyer.
ReplyDeleteGee, if only I had known. I could have just waited and borrowed your Hassleblad.
OK, I don't think anyone can take a "brief" vacation to Argentina! :-) Just getting caught up as I have actually BEEN on vacation. :-)
ReplyDeleteMark - Darn you have got me there. Besides, you really know how to hurt a person--reminding me that you actually got away and you went hiking, I hear. Seriously, you were missed. Thanks for visiting.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding image and a great story to back it up!
ReplyDeleteDang! You reeled me in, too, Anita. I was thinking: Damn! She went to Argentina??? Nice! Then when you started talking about the Hassleblad, I started to get a bit suspicious, but still held it in the realm of possibility. Great story and a wonder work of art there with the photo. Quite amazing.
ReplyDeleteSteve - Thanks a million for those kind words. I am delighted that you like the image. Hope you got a chuckle from the story.
ReplyDeletePaul - Thank you for visiting. I hope you will return often.
ReplyDeleteWhat fun that I had you going for a bit. All fantasies, I am afraid. I appreciate the kind words about my work. This opportunity to share my expression is important and it is gratifying to know that I have made a connection. Thanks.
Sounds like a fine trip, whether you've gone yet or are just planning it in your head for now - who knows, maybe some day :)
ReplyDeleteGordon - All in my head, believe me. But, it does sound fine, doesn't it? Now that's a trip that you might make one day.
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear from you. I don't know how your comment slipped by me. I hope you will have the time and inclination to return to blogging. I miss your posts.