It is the moments before, the time preceding the fraction of a second, that actually makes up a photograph.
   It is crucial time, measured more in thought than light and colour, where movement ceases or is silent for a mere moment before time stands still.
   It may be only a moment, but that scant period of time is made up of years of practice and observation. Choices are made: focal length and shutter speed, aperture and intention; how much or how little light goes into each photograph?
   Only you will know if the results are what you thought they would be, at the time and in those moments (and years) leading up to that fraction of a second.
   I have been, since June, adapting all I know about photography onto my newest camera.
   Technologically superior to each camera I have previously owned, my new camera is a challenge that is as much exciting as intimidating. This is the seventh camera I have owned in my lifetime, and each has served me well.
   The format has changed from film to digital but the fundamentals remain.
   I have to remember, in this era of automation and artificial intelligence, that I, as the photographer, must maintain control of composition, and thought, and outcome.
   Now, as I was before, I remain entranced by the magic of photography and what you can do with light and determination.
   I have learned so much over the decades, but have so much more to learn. If nothing else, that is the reason to continue to explore image and substance, and the magic of photography.

11/07/2022                                                                                j.g.l.