JPG: Stories: Photo Essay: A shift in thought

A shift in thought

By Michael Adams

17 Aug 2009

I have lived in many different areas throughout my life.

Urban, rural, a mix of them in between.

Having lived in the urban setting for 10+ years the thought of rural life was, at best scary. Not to say I am in the middle of nowhere, far from it. We found a town of approximately 500 people. So rural could be a bit misleading in that sense.

To change pace and be able to slow down and relax away from the noise of the city is a relief. It is a jewel that I treasure everyday when I come home. The silence, the wildlife.

I also have noticed that my photos have a new trend. I seem to strive to capture the beauty that my area has to offer. I no longer look for the negative of the city living as I used to.

I no longer have the same jaded look I did toward the same things I see daily. What I was seeing daily, in the city, has become a rare treat and thus the new set of eyes upon entering the city.

I also have grown very fond of the treasures that the country has to offer. The store that closes by 8 P.M., the main eatery being a taco stand. Being able to walk less than a mile to see horses or cows. The common sighting of birds of prey. When the whole town shows up for a parade and the kids don't have to fight for candy...

It really is the little things that make where you live enjoyable to the fullest extent.

If you are thinking of making a change, go for it. You will be surprised at the changes, not only in your photography, that can come from such things.

Moments before sunrise

Another country morning

My kind of view

Wonderful morning

Tractor/Mountains

Country Living

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2 responses

Jim Pope said (17 Aug 2009):
Beautifully written and accompanied by images that evoke just the right thoughts of rural peace. I've lived both places, too. Interestingly I find when I'm in one, I long for the other. But I get what your saying about the change being good for the creative force. Change, I think, helps one to see instead of look.
Marco Martinez gave props (24 Aug 2009):
Great photoessay, Michael. It looks like you are enjoying where you're at. You're right that your photography will shift in focus because photography is the way you interact with the world. You have chosen some great vistas. I like it.