Another Argument for Joining a Camera Club

Self-Portrait, or what I shoot when I don't know what to shoot.

The Ojai Photography Club states two goals: Education and Camaraderie. The secret goal is inspiration. Last weekend I learned how that works.

Although I’ve spent over half a century in southern California, I almost never go to Los Angeles. Joining some family members on Saturday for a tour of landmarks like the Library, Disney Concert Hall, Bradbury Building, and Grand Central Market, I carried my camera and a couple of lenses (Nikon D300, Nikon 35mm f2.0, Nikon 85mm f1.8).

But I was in a grumpy mood. I didn’t like the light – bright and hazy midday. I didn’t like the city – Pershing Square smelled like urine and crazy people hollered at me on the street. I didn’t like the pace of the tour, which prevented me from working a photographic subject at my leisure. But most of all, I didn’t like the fact that I just didn’t feel inspired to photograph anything.

Until I remembered the club’s theme for February: Reflections. All of a sudden, I had some direction, and there were subjects EVERYWHERE.

Looking for photographic education, camaraderie, and inspiration? Join your local camera club!

Pigeon cage in two dimensions

Disney Concert Hall is all reflections, all the time.

The Figueroa Hotel, decorated by nearby towers of glass.

My favorite shot of the day. At first, I was just shooting reflective surfaces, but then I realized that if I turned around, I would see how the glass towers lit their surroundings.

NOTE: After posting this, I remembered that I was supposed to blog about what happens when I have to make dramatic light less dramatic. Sorry; next time!