It was the last day of the workshop, and everyone wanted to return to the cemetery. They had learned how not to be overwhelmed and were eager to revisit some scenes and find some new ones.
We arrived, and everyone knew from the day before that they had to move quickly to capture the light. They scattered like petals in a windstorm.
Some came with me down to the water. I could tell there was a lovely mist on the river and encouraged those who were interested to follow quickly. Arnie worked with others, and eventually came down to join us when he could no longer find anyone to help. They had melted into the scenery, absorbed by their own photography.
It was glorious down there. The light was perfect, and the sun was a huge, red orb as it rose and bathed everything it touched in a super-warm glow. It didn’t last long, though, so we felt lucky to have been there at the right time.
Well, let’s face it; luck doesn’t really have a lot to do with it, as many of you know. It’s a question of experience, of looking up the weather forecast, of knowing what the light is likely to do, and of being in the right place at the right time to make the photograph you want.
Once the sun rose a little higher, people had photographs in mind they wanted to work on. No one was struggling today. They drifted off, now really understanding light and wanting to take advantage of it. Yes, the red orb had gone, but the sun was still low, and the opportunities for interesting lighting on this and that were numerous.
Arnie and I wandered around, trying to find members of our group. As I was walking down one path, this scene caught my peripheral vision. It worked for me. Just a hint of a couple of stones to give it a sense of place, the moss backlit, the azaleas adding splashes of color.
We had a great last critique session, everyone thoughtful in their comments. Did every image work for everyone? No, and people were tactfully honest about that. After all, what’s the point of a critique if someone just pats you on the head and says, “That’s nice, dear.” … NOT! and NO POINT!
Some people had to catch earlier flights, so we reviewed their photographs first. They lingered, not really wanting to leave just yet.
We joked, and everyone agreed, “It’s all about the light!” They all went home with photographs that garnered praise from their fellow participants but more importantly, that pleased themselves. What more could one want?
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It was one of those magical days when the light and the natural beauty of the location enabled us to create stunning photographs. We all went home with keepers that day.
Thanks, Jack, for writing. Indeed, there were many winners made that day.
Take care,
TBC
Hi Margo,
It’s been a long time since I’ve posted a comment on your blog … doesn’t mean I haven’t been paying attention, though.
I read your posts religiously, and though I haven’t been able to participate in one of your wonderful workshops recently (I will again, I promise), through your blog, I find inspiration as I continue to try and broaden my portfolio and strive to present local tours/workshops. I often find myself asking, “What would Margo do?”
Just thought you should know that even though some of us haven’t been able to participate in repeated TBC workshops, we still find your efforts enjoyable and motivational.
Thanks,
Tom
Wow, Tom! What a lovely comment [blush]. We do hope to inspire, challenge, and motivate, and it’s good to hear it works at least some of the time.
We do look forward to that time when we’ll see you again.
Meanwhile, take care, and thanks for writing,
TBC
As usual, a beautiful photos to go with the beautiful prose. I always enjoy reading your blogs. The biggest problem: I want to be there!! Glad you had a good week as you traversed the weather. Sounded almost like being in the rain of Belize! John
Thank you so much, John. Sorry about your wishing you were there with us! 😉 Hazards of another job! We look forward to seeing you again, soon, however.
As to the rain, it was a lot heavier than it was in Belize. And a lot windier! Black clouds punctuated by long zots of lightning were most impressive, and we were delighted we were in the safety of our hotel or later our cars until the storm broke.
Take care, and thanks for writing,
TBC
Margo, loved your post, as usual. This seems like a great time of year to be in Savannah (though I’ve never been disappointed when visiting). Looking forward to more of your particular brand of writing – your treatment of luck and critique ring particularly true for me :). Yes, you are missed “back home”.
Rick
Rick,
As always, thank you for your comments. It really is nice to know people out there enjoy the blogs and look forward to them.
We’ll be back in Canaan this summer. Looking forward to catching up.
Take care,
TBC