Peace and Love ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

Its hard to believe but here I am at the 39th week of 2012 and I’m still going with this project. I really want to thank my friend Wouter because without his wise words this project would have probably ended by now.

Tribute to Daido Moriyama ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

After 39 weeks photographing almost everyday what does one learn? Well for me personally the journey has been quite interesting. I’ve tried more cameras than I care to name but I do finally agree that its the photographer behind the lens that creates the magic. I use to have a hard time coming this realization and always thought that the better gear gives you better images. Wrong, a better photographer will give you better photographs.

Koki, I miss you ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

I’m just a regular photographer like many of you reading this blog and I’m the most normal person you’d ever imagine but I can tell you that I have a vision and I know how to create it. Keep in mind I’m not saying I’m a great photographer. All I’m saying is that I have a vision and I can draw that vision with the various tools I use to photograph and process & edit.

In Your Eyes ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

Yes, processing and editing are part of that vision. If you don’t believe me just ask Daido Moriyama (one of my favorite street togs of all time) if his wet and dry room techniques are not part of his vision and imagery. With that said, tools are just tools. Cameras, there are plenty to choose from. Its also worth noting that I almost always use older cameras. Why? Well that’s a two fold question but it goes a little something like this – I love trying different cameras and lenses and I almost always loose money in those transactions, so why go for something newer if I’m just going to loose anyway. Well at least that’s my reasoning behind that theory.

Coming Home ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

But following that same vein. I’m now shooting with a semi pro dslr and I’m not freaking out its not a compact. What George on a dslr, the world is going to freeze. Nah, not at all its just a tool I happen to be liking at this time. In the end, I consider myself a lucky person to be able to try a lot of different gear but that’s not ethos of this site. I feel like my priorities are changing into more of a documentary type of style.

Dying Love ― Canon 40D, Sigma 24-60mm 2.8 EX DG

I just want to record moments now so in the future I can smile at an image, cry as well, and even tell a story or two. I want to celebrate life with the click of my shutter. Life passes us so fast and as I grow older, I’m currently 39 yrs old, I realize that we spend a lot time and resources on things that don’t really matter all that much. How much money we make or don’t make. What cars we drive or don’t, or to summarize the do’s and don’t of life. You know what, like my friend who passed on last year used to say ” whatever man.” Folks, shoot and be happy, share a lot, smile and always celebrate life, we don’t know how long will be here to continue to press that shutter. See ya next time.