AJNphotography

Old Faithful

2012-02-26T16:11:00.002-05:00

Old Faithful
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Today was a great day, not only was it warm (comparatively speaking) but it was a day filled with old friends and idle banter.
Or was that idle friends and .. no .. old friends and idle banter I was right the first time.

We visited McLeans Auto Wreckers. Now that might seem to be a strange place to actually want to go to but we are photographers and an Auto Wreckers, especially one with 40 acres of old cars is a photographers paradise even more so when the owners are accommodating and friendly.

My photographs from today are in colour, unusual for me but a glorious sunrise and blue skies deserved to be captured in colour

Apart from everything else it was a good walk ....

Better to hunt in fields, for health unbought,
Than fee the doctor for a nauseous draught,
The wise, for cure, on exercise depend;
God never made his work for man to mend.
~John Dryden

These Poor Hands

2012-02-19T17:46:00.003-05:00

These Poor Hands
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Old age - it comes to us all eventually.

I saw this lady bending over the baskets of fruit, nimble fingers searching for the best pieces.

By the look of her hands you wouldn't think them capable of such a task.

It was her hands that caused me to stop. However, looks can be deceiving ...

Father Time is not always a hard parent, and, though he tarries for none of his children, often lays his hand lightly upon those who have used him well; making them old men and women inexorably enough, but leaving their hearts and spirits young and in full vigour. With such people the grey head is but the impression of the old fellow's hand in giving them his blessing, and every wrinkle but a notch in the quiet calendar of a well-spent life. ~Charles Dickens

Hands of the craftsman

2012-02-12T16:08:00.002-05:00

Hands of the craftsman
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This weekend I was at Thak Ironworks in Floradale, Ontario and met Robb aka Thak.

He described his teen years as a time of discovery.
When he realised that all he needed was iron, a hammer and a forge he was well on his way to becoming what he is today.

Is it trite to call him an 'artist' ?
a 'smith' ?
A 'worker in iron'?

For he is all these things and more. What he does with iron is beyond Art, beyond 'smithing' , beyond just a 'worker in iron'.
He is all of these and the end result is far greater than the parts.

Above all he is a happy man, one of those rare people who have found a way to make a living by doing what he loves to do.

He is the envy of us all.

The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation. ~Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Twisted

2012-02-05T08:30:00.002-05:00

Twisted
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It was good to get out again after several weeks of 'downtime'.

We walked or should I say strolled along a new to us trail in Cambridge and ended up in Riverside Park. The sun coming up casting those long, winter shadows. Great stuff. This is why I love this time of year and why I have missed my walks so much. It's good to be back :-)

How can you explain that you need to know that the trees are still there, and the hills and the sky? Anyone knows they are. How can you say it is time your pulse responded to another rhythm, the rhythm of the day and the season instead of the hour and the minute? No, you cannot explain. So you walk. ~Author unknown, from New York Times editorial, "The Walk," 25 October 1967.

Fence Line

2012-01-29T15:22:00.002-05:00

Fence Line
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Now as my strength starts to return I had to get out for a walk so I headed out for one of my favorite haunts, the Arboretum in the University of Guelph.
Just a short drive but a world away, more so today as the snow made it even more quiet, a cold, white, blanket that hushed the distant traffic so you could hear the soft crunching of your footsteps, the chickadee's and squirrels.

An invigorating walk that tired the body but refreshed the spirit.

I understand what John Masefield was saying when he penned "Sea Fever" ..

http://www.poetseers.org/the_great_poets/misc/i_must_go_down_to_the_sea/

I gave in to the pull of that which I love..

Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love. ~Rumi

First Light - Gordon Street Bridge

2012-01-22T19:53:00.002-05:00

First Light - Gordon Street Bridge
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
Another weekend has gone by without me picking up a camera let alone taking a photograph. So I spent some time revisiting images I took on New Years day.

I hate being sick!

But I am on the mend the antibiotics are doing there job and nature is taking its course with the flu symptoms.

No more sneezing and coughing!

However I did not take this advice ....

You have a cough? Go home tonight, eat a whole box of Ex-Lax - tomorrow you'll be afraid to cough. ~Pearl Williams

Storm Watch

2012-01-15T20:24:00.002-05:00

Storm Watch
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Well no photographs, not a single frame taken this weekend.
Last week I came down with the "Man Flu" which is way worse than your everyday normal flu because it seeks out only men as it's victims.
Coughing and hacking does not make for a steady camera, besides I was in bed most of the time.

However, this morning I began to think I might make it and am slowly recovering from the dreaded malady, during my ordeal, my wife did keep me going by texting me "Poor Little Bunny" texts to keep my spirits up

So I went back to the images from my recent Tobermory trip and worked on this one "Storm Watch".

Man-Flu
In case you are curious, this is what it's like ...

Caution terrible images not for children, especially boys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbmbMSrsZVQ

Winter Glow

2012-01-08T13:40:00.002-05:00

Winter Glow
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Winter requires a certain attitude.

Do not regret the passing of Autumn, you have to look forward to it's passing and
find your sweaters,jackets and boots.

Think of that magical, first frost that will soon cover the meadows with silver.

Think not of the falling temperatures but of the cool, crisp, air and the walks to be enjoyed.

Then get out there and savour the peace, as the snow falls, blanketing the earth in silence.

It's a time to be young again.

Winter came down to our home one night
Quietly pirouetting in on silvery-toed slippers of snow,
And we, we were children once again.
~Bill Morgan, Jr.

The Old Mill - Redux - Nikon P7100

2012-01-01T15:36:00.002-05:00

The Old Mill - Redux - Nikon P7100
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

There is nothing that stir's the creative juices more than a new toy ... err a new piece of equipment.
On our recent Annual trip up to Tobermory I took along my new Nikon P7100 to put it through its paces.
This image was taken on the way home after the freezing fog and snow had transformed the world into a winter wonderland. Add in a spotlight of sunlight illuminating the frozen tree's it was pure magic.

My quote today is not really a part of this image but the timing is close enough. A thought, a wish, for the New Year..

A happy New Year! Grant that I
May bring no tear to any eye
When this New Year in time shall end
Let it be said I've played the friend,
Have lived and loved and labored here,
And made of it a happy year.
~Edgar Guest

Our Lady II

2011-12-18T09:20:00.004-05:00

Our Lady II
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This weekend I stayed close to home, adding to my "Guelph portfolio".

I visited some new area's and some well trodden places. My original destination was the new Guelph museum site which is coming along quite nicely.

Right next door is the "Church of our Lady Immaculate" Catholic Church.

http://www.churchofourlady.com/history.htm

Although I am not a religious person I find myself in awe of the architecture and love to wander old graveyards, churches and cathedrals.

This Church is a classic Gothic structure and offers oh so many photographic opportunities not the least being the statue that welcomes visitors to this magnificent place.

Early morning light played across the statue, gently lighting and sculpting her features. I decided to add an "Orton" effect to enhance that softness a slight vignette hepls to centre the eye.

Conversion to Black and White to finish the photograph, of course.

All photographs are there to remind us of what we forget. In this - as in other ways - they are the opposite of paintings. Paintings record what the painter remembers. Because each one of us forgets different things, a photo more than a painting may change its meaning according to who is looking at it. ~John Berger

On Track

2011-12-11T15:27:00.002-05:00

On Track
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This weekend we decided to visit a local conservation area. However they are not run by photographers or they would open earlier than 8:30am !
So to pass the time we parked at the other end of the reservoir and wandered around exploring this new location.
Having no destination in mind allows the creative juices to flow, some paths taken, some ignored depending on what the eye see's and the mind interprets. A set of rails demanded to be explored. I took the shot my companion looked down the lines, a little disappointed at what he saw.
Usually we think alike, this time we didn't, maybe it was the cold wind that hit us as we left the lee of the tree's .....

Whatever the reason, it matters not because we were out for a "wander"

Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe. ~Anatole France

Fields of Silver

2011-12-04T08:18:00.002-05:00

Fields of Silver
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I love this time of year!

On Saturday my friends and I took an early morning walk along the Niska Road Trail. The fields were covered in hoar frost and everything was encrusted in tiny jewels that reflected and refracted the early morning light.

Every turn held scenes of Mother Natures handiwork, the hard part was to capture it.

All too soon the sun peaked the hills and treetops and, with that first kiss of warmth, it all vanished.

Photographers deal in things which are continually vanishing and when they have vanished there is no contrivance on earth which can make them come back again. ~Henri Cartier-Bresson

Help Portrait - Team 4

2011-11-27T09:47:00.004-05:00

Help Portrait - Team 4
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Yesterday a whole crowd of like minded, giving people from our community gave up their Saturday to help others.
Help Portrait is a growing movement within the photographic community whose aim is to enable us to use our talents in service to others.

What you see here is a small part of that group, team 4, my group.

Back row: Tony, Santa's Brother aka Bob, Jeanne, yours truly
and Little Stephen in front :-)

and many, many, more unseen here but you know who you are.

Karen, Now I understand what you were trying to say ....

The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of tiny pushes of each honest worker. ~Helen Keller

What light through yonder window breaks

2011-11-20T16:02:00.002-05:00

What light through yonder window breaks
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Strange isn't it, how I look forward to a walk.

As much as I love exploring new places a walk in an old familiar place, in this case the highways and byways of the University of Guelph, brings a smile.
I don't know how many times I have taken this shortcut or how many times I have photographed it but every visit is new.
Every time, I see something differently.

A few years ago I walked the same path for a year. Watching the woods change.

Spring became summer, summer became autumn, which in turn became winter and finally spring returned again.
I learned a lot that year, I think it is time to do it again....

There is no season such delight can bring
As summer, autumn, winter and the spring.
~William Browne

Guelph - The other side of the tracks

2011-11-13T10:01:00.002-05:00

Guelph - The other side of the tracks
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I've been thinking, dangerous I know, but a conversation I had with my friend Doug yesterday as we wandered around Guelph started this line of thought. We were discussing what, to us, makes a good image, why do we like one image versus another?
Is it because we created it?
How do we pass that emotion along to the viewer so that they may see as we do?

All of these questions led to more questions and an inner search for meaning and answers, which led me down this path ...

What drives us?
What sets us (photographers) apart from the rest?

To me the answers lie in:
We 'feel' the world around us and in doing allows us to see all those mundane things in a different light.
It is this 'feeling' that allows us to see the world around us differently than most people.

For instance, have you ever stood and pondered a scene and had people stop, look, shrug and move on?
Ever had someone ask "what are you looking at?"
I know I have.

That "feeling" is the difference and it drives our desire to share what we 'see' with others.

And that desire--the strong desire to take pictures--is important. It borders on a need, based on a habit: the habit of seeing. Whether working or not, photographers are looking, seeing, and thinking about what they see, a habit that is both a pleasure and a problem, for we seldom capture in a single photograph the full expression of what we see and feel. It is the hope that we might express ourselves fully--and the evidence that other photographers have done so--that keep us taking pictures.
- Seeing and Shooting Straight by Sam Abell

Killarney - Atop "The Crack"

2011-11-06T07:13:00.003-05:00

Killarney - Atop "The Crack"
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It's strange, when I look back through all my images from Killarney I have an overwhelming sense of peace. The one word that comes to mind to explain that peace is 'solitude'.

However I was not alone, far from it.

We (well, I) need these places, these times to remind me of who I am ... just a country boy.

'Cos I'm just a country boy,
Money have I none.
But I've got silver in the stars,
And gold in the morning sun.
Gold in the morning sun.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDt9bPCPBGk&feature=related

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul. ~John Muir

Killarney - Moonshine

2011-10-30T19:23:00.003-04:00

Killarney - Moonshine
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It's funny how a word can conjure up a time, a place, a memory and bring a smile to your face.

Such a word is "Killarney"

Going back through the images of my trip I have memories of good times, I remember the who, the when, the where and the fellowship.

As we move through our workaday life it is these moments that sustain us, keep us sane.

All this wrapped up in one word "KIllarney" which is a part of the bigger word/phrase "The natural world".
In our concrete, artificial, air conditioned, well lit, world we become detached from what is real.

I mean when was the last time you stopped rushing around to look up, at the moon?

Places like Killarney should be visited by everyone, fortunately for we few who consider it necessary, not everyone does. That saddens me.

How hard it is to escape from places. However carefully one goes they hold you - you leave little bits of yourself fluttering on the fences - like rags and shreds of your very life. ~Katherine Mansfield

Bronte_Creek - The Kettle

2011-10-24T07:06:00.002-04:00

Bronte_Creek - The Kettle
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Every photographer must experience the same thing.

I saw this scene, stood for a few, long moments looking at it. Walked past and back, had another look. Then decided, yes this has potential, black and white potential.

Now I knew I could 'fix' the slight angle I had to shoot it at but I stood on tip toe anyway imagining the finished photo.

I wished for my polarizing filter to subdue the reflections in the glass but made do without it by maneuvering the reflections around by slight sideways adjustments to my position.

Thinking about this made me realise ....

The camera can photograph thought. ~Dirk Bogarde

Killarney - The Stand

2011-10-17T07:01:00.002-04:00

Killarney - The Stand
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This weekend past, indeed the whole week was a whirlwind of preparation and presentation.

I was part of a collective "Show and Sale" of the work generated by the Guelph Photographers Guild.
Preparing for such an event is no slight effort and being present and available for hour after hour was taxing on these old bones (and on younger bones than mine so I heard).
Still I would not have missed it for the world. The laughter and camaraderie of other the exhibitors combined with the wonderful comments from passers by washed the discomfort away.

Ahh more memories ....

Things that were hard to bear are sweet to remember. ~Seneca

Killarney - The end of the beginning

2011-10-10T13:11:00.002-04:00

Killarney - The end of the beginning
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Traveling again, this time a return journey to Killarney Provincial Park in Northern Ontario.

It's been 15 or so years since I was there, that time with my friend Grant. Who introduced me to me that wonderful place that is "The Crack".

This time I went with my friend Doug, who has never ventured far into the wilds of Ontario but was eager to go.

The Crack was singing it's siren song ...

It's not an easy hike, especially for an old fart like me but when I heard his reaction as he rounded the final bend and saw those lakes, the colours of fall and the white Quartzite mountain range surrounding him, it brought a smile to my face, an old memory seen through new eyes.

Sore muscles and tiredness forgotten.

I was lucky enough to have been shown this place and able to share it with a friend back then.

Now I am fortunate enough to take another and in doing, have passed it on to another friend, who, in turn, will find someone to share it with.

This is the stuff that memories are made of.

I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within. ~Lillian Smith

Westover Drumlin - Church

2011-10-02T06:40:00.002-04:00

Westover Drumlin - Church
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

What I want to say today has nothing to do with the image but then again it has everything to do with it because it is a memory of a day filled with laughter and easy friendship.

What started out as a walk on a dreary, windy, gray morning ended with an evening surrounded by friends and family.

The day began with some wanderings, as usual plus a trip to visit with Don Corby who was hosting one of the Studio Tour locations. There I met Peter Young a fine art photographer who specialises in IR photography. Photographers are a strange rare breed I have yet to meet one who is not willing to share information and "tricks of his trade" it was the same with Peter who took the time to explain his camera's and techniques.

Later my wife Cathy had asked if I wanted to go out to celebrate my upcoming Birthday, a trip to my favourite Pub for curry and a pint who could refuse !
Unknown to me a crowd was gathering, all arranged by Cathy quite unbeknownst to me. It was quite a surprise as I started to recognise faces and realise I had been tricked, in a nice way.
What an evening, surrounded by friends and family, I am truly blessed. A wonderful wife, a great family and such good friends.

Thank you, one and all for a great evening...

But if the while I think on thee, dear friend,
All losses are restored and sorrows end.
~William Shakespeare

Horse in the Mist

2011-09-25T16:57:00.002-04:00

Horse in the Mist
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I don't know what it is about horses and foggy mornings. There is a kind of magic in the air whenever I see them.

This particular morning the magic was strong magic,overpoweringly so. When I saw this scene through the viewfinder something clicked, not only in my camera but in my minds eye.

The real scene was considerably more dull and well, foggy, but my imagination saw a dreamscape instead of a landscape. Working with the image later, at home the illusion began to take shape and this is the result.

This is far and away from my usual workflow which is usually confined to a few clicks of the mouse to bring out the details. This time I was on a totally different path trying to pull out the surreal.

Horses and fog will do that too you, throw in a woodland setting and your in trouble :-)

It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see. ~Henry David Thoreau

Closer, Closer

2011-09-18T19:51:00.002-04:00

Closer, Closer
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It's funny how someone you have never met can become a friend and for someone you haven't seen in about 50 years remembers you as a friend.
Mike and Chris are such people.

Chris I knew as a kid growing up in England, she was a friend of my sisters. A year or so ago Chris found me via the internet. Since then her husband Mike and I have kept in touch through the common bond of photography.

This last month they came to Canada to visit Chris's relatives in Eastern Canada and took the time to travel to Ontario to see me. Well me and Niagara Falls ;-)

I enjoyed their company for a day at The Falls before they had to fly home. I spent the day talking of old times with Chris and new times with Mike, a long day but a grand day.

Haste ye back guys ...

No road is long with good company. ~Turkish Proverb

Elmira Barn and the traveller

2011-09-12T06:51:00.002-04:00

Elmira Barn
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Early Sunday morning I visited a few local barns that I had had my eye on. The light was right so I ventured out.
This was the last of three and close to home.

As usual I parked off the edge of the road with my hazard lights flashing and wandered off the make this image. When I got back to the car and was putting my camera gear away a car, traveling in the other direction, stopped. The occupant, a young man asked if everything was alright. I smiled and said thanks and told him I was just taking photographs. His reply was
"well that's good I am never too busy to stop and offer help if it's needed"

That made my day, how long has it been since someone has done that for you?
Or more importantly how long has it been since you did that for someone else?

How far that little candle throws his beams!
So shines a good deed in a naughty world.
~William Shakespeare, Merchant of Venice,

Newfoundland - The reason I went back.

2011-09-04T09:17:00.002-04:00

Newfoundland - The reason I went back.
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Well the real reason I went back was because my wife said I should. She could not get time off work but insisted I go alone, because she knew I wanted too. Go back that is but not necessarily alone.
She understands me better than I understand myself. I guess she saw my disappointment, although I tried to hide it and thought I had, when we visited in June. In a whirlwind of a few days the decision was made, the flight booked and I was on my way.

I was going seeking Icebergs, what I found, was me.

There are days when solitude is a heady wine that intoxicates you with freedom, others when it is a bitter tonic, and still others when it is a poison that makes you beat your head against the wall. ~Colette

Newfoundland - Sitting on a rock, on "the RocK"

2011-08-28T18:28:00.002-04:00

Newfoundland - Sitting on a rock on "the RocK"
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Notes from my journal:
Onward to Great Brehat (Braa-at) and another of those hidden gems. This is such a joy but the icing on the cake was the path that lead to the top of the headland.

From here there is a panorama of blue sea, white ice and green grey rocks and cliffs. Add to all that is the scent of bayberry, talk about sensory overload. I sat there for quite a while and managed a self portrait sitting on the rocks overlooking the ocean.

I think I am getting a feel for this place now.

The solitude gives your mind a chance to wander, free like the circling gulls above.
The silence, the crunch of your boots on ancient rock, the wind in your ears, the sun on your back offer peace of mind.
A feeling of belonging, a place where everything is right with the world. It reminds me of a line from a Foster and Allen song ..
"and if you come broken, we'll see that you mend"
I can only describe it as Hauntingly beautiful

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life. ~Albert Camus

Leica Sunrise

2011-08-21T14:40:00.002-04:00

Leica Sunrise
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Just North of Guelph, early in the morning, we found a trail in the woods.
The sun, just rising and filtering through the mist and cast sunbeams along the way.

This is what makes mornings special.

I'll tell you how the sun rose a ribbon at a time. ~Emily Dickinson

Industrial Vision - Sleeman Brewery

2011-08-14T13:45:00.002-04:00

Industrial Vision - Sleeman Brewery
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Our photo club challenge this month was a follow on from watching "Manufactured Landscapes" by Edward Burtynsky.
When I introduced it at our meeting my comment was "this movie will change the way you think and maybe the way you live."

My search for an Industrial image today was more than that, it was an eye opener to what is happening all around us.

Go see for yourself.

The means by which we live have outdistanced the ends for which we live. Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men. ~Martin Luther King, Jr., Strength to Love, 1963

Safari Road - the long and winding path to morning

2011-08-07T08:36:00.002-04:00

Safari Road - the long and winding path to morning
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Rising early on a Saturday morning, to some, is madness.
I'm lucky to have enough crazy friends that I do not have to do it alone :-)

You can only come to the morning through the shadows. ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Serendipity - Sunflowers

2011-08-01T14:55:00.002-04:00

Serendipity - Sunflowers
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

We were wandering the back roads this morning when we saw a lady frantically waving from the side of the road.
I stopped, she said "have you seen the sunflowers?" (frantically pointing over her shoulder).
In truth I would have driven right by. Thank you Margaret-Ann for pointing the way !

The flower offered of itself
And eloquently spoke
Of Gods
In languages of rainbows
Perfumes
And secret silence...
~Phillip Pulfrey, from Love, Abstraction and other Speculations, www.originals.net

Elora Morning - The ruins

2011-07-24T11:00:00.002-04:00

Elora Morning - The ruins
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It has been quite a few weeks since I walked the path through the woods in Elora.
My first stop is always the old ruined mill.Then I continue on and wander through the woods to the bridge and back across the other side. I have walked here so many times and yet these paths never fail to offer up something new

If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power to move you, if the simple things of nature have a message that you understand, rejoice, for your soul is alive. ~Eleonora Duse

Alien Landscape - IR

2011-07-17T08:46:00.002-04:00

Alien Landscape - IR
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

In the early spring I came across this landscape and made an image in black and white, with a pledge to return in the height of summer.
Yesterday I went back with my Nikon D70 and a 720nm IR (Infra Red) filter to record what we cannot see with our eyes.

The quotation this week has been my e-mail tag line for quite a while now and seems appropriate...

In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. ~Aaron Rose

Grindstone Creek - Feeling instead of Seeing

2011-07-03T07:47:00.003-04:00

Grindstone Creek - Feeling instead of Seeing
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
(click on the image to see the original)

Sometimes you have to stop looking for an image, listening and feeling your way instead.

Grindstone Creek tumbling along the Bruce Trail near Waterdown, Ontario is one of those places that draws you back time and time again.
The rushing waters remove the noises of the 'real' world. The tree's filter the light to dappled shade.
The sounds,
the smell of the earth,
the hardness of the rock formations,
the softness of the soil,
the solitude
and the quality of the light is what I am trying to capture here.

While there is perhaps a province in which the photograph can tell us nothing more than what we see with our own eyes, there is another in which it proves to us how little our eyes permit us to see. ~Dorothea Lange

Newfoundland - Da swomp

2011-06-26T15:01:00.002-04:00

Newfoundland - Da swomp
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I have been captured and released;
Captured by her simple beauty and released from cares.
Cathy, my love, I owe you so much for taking me there.

I remember a hundred lovely lakes, and recall the fragrant breath of pine and fir and cedar and poplar trees. The trail has strung upon it, as upon a thread of silk, opalescent dawns and saffron sunsets. It has given me blessed release from care and worry and the troubled thinking of our modern day. It has been a return to the primitive and the peaceful. Whenever the pressure of our complex city life thins my blood and benumbs my brain, I seek relief in the trail; and when I hear the coyote wailing to the yellow dawn, my cares fall from me - I am happy. ~Hamlin Garland, McClure's, February 1899

Newfoundland - St_John's, The Narrows

2011-06-19T16:40:00.002-04:00

Newfoundland - St_John's, The Narrows
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This is one of my favourite images from our trip to Newfoundland. So on this day I dedicate it to my Dad and to all the other Dad's and those who have lost their Dad's.

Happy Fathers Day.

When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years. ~Author unknown, commonly attributed to Mark Twain

Newfoundland - Quidi Vidi Cove

2011-06-12T12:19:00.002-04:00

Newfoundland - Quidi Vidi Cove
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

We're back !
Our first day on "The Rock" was bright and sunny. The next morning the fog had rolled in and it stayed that way for most of the week ;-)
So, many of my shots are in Black and White, many look like a "hounds of the Baskerville" setting but that's Newfoundland for ya and when your given lemons you make lemonade!

Actually I think it is a plot by the Newfoundland Tourist Board, you land in sunshine and it makes you feel better. That gives Newfoundland enough time to work its magic and by day two you don't care about the weather ! :-)

On our first real day we stumbled on to Quidi Vidi cove (the home of the Quidi Vidi brewery) WOW, just WOW ....

Footfalls echo in the memory
Down the passage which we did not take
Towards the door we never opened
~T.S. Eliot

Newfoundland, I will be back, to walk down those passages and open those doors that I did not open on this trip.

The Flatiron

2011-05-29T10:37:00.002-04:00

The Flatiron
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This weekend we ventured to Downtown Toronto. Not my favourite place but we had planned a trip to take in the Contact Festival and "Doors Open Toronto" this was our only chance.

There were two things I really wanted to photograph, this being the first of them.

Arriving in Downtown bright and early we were greeted by fog. I'm sure not everyone would be as pleased as I but fog removes the distracting visual noise from a scene and softens the impact of modern life.

I like this image, the massive skyscrapers are gone, vanished in the mists of time as it were and we are back 100 years to the days the flatiron was built.

So the image had to be sepia toned, black and white to give the 'feel' of what it was like back then, the vignette removed more of the modern day distractions.

Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be. ~Duane Michals

The way we were, Central GMC

2011-05-22T21:06:00.002-04:00

The way we were, Central GMC
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Central is where I take my car when it needs 'attention' and every-time I go I see this bright red GMC pickup.
Yesterday I had my Bronica loaded with Fuji Acros B&W film and as I walked past it whispered in my ear "now is the time to make an image of this fine piece of automotive history".
So I did,
I decided before I fired the shutter it needed to be 'sepia toned' and I needed the 2 signs in the image.
I am pleased with the result.

Be still with yourself until the object of your attention affirms your presence.
Minor White

Einstein Cafe Magnolia's

2011-05-15T16:26:00.002-04:00

Einstein Cafe Magnolia's
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

On Saturday I spent several hours crawling around in the mud at the UofG Arboretum hunting the elusive Trillium, Trout Lilly and Jack-in-the-Pulpit.
What I really wanted to capture was the magnificent Magnolia.
After leaving the Arboretum with dirty knee's and several images. I went over to the Farmers Market in the downtown. As I drove away I caught sight of the Magnolia's outside the Einstein's Cafe.
I couldn't believe my eye's!

Too me Magnolia tree's in bloom speak of Spring, their flowers only last a few days but what a show!

The Trillium were forgotten .... :-)

And Spring arose on the garden fair,
Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere;
And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast
rose from the dreams of its wintry rest.
~Percy Bysshe Shelley, "The Sensitive Plant"

Young 'un

2011-05-08T17:26:00.002-04:00

Young 'un
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

No I haven't finished prattling on about Algonquin. You have to go there to appreciate why.
Every Spring we go to see the moose, you would think that I have enough moose photo's now but that's only part of the reason I go.

To witness these magnificent creatures close up and free, to observe and listen as mothers interact with their young is a big part of it.
This very young male was at this point separated from "Mom" as she had crossed the highway merely feet from us.
He tried to follow, hesitated, went back but realised Mom wasn't coming to get him so very gingerly he climbed up to the road, looked both ways as good children do and plucked up the courage to cross.
Yes Mom was waiting and watching as Moms always do :-)

"What is man without the animals?
Without the beasts men would die of a great loneliness of spirit." -Chief Seattle

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mothers out there, human and animal :-)

Blowout

2011-05-03T07:40:00.003-04:00

Blowout
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Another trip to Algonquin is over but the feeling lingers on.
Great times, great scenery and magic around every corner.
This year my wife Cathy came along and she too fell under Algonquin's spell.

This was a lake sized beaver pond last year, now it's gone. The damn upstream blew out (or was blown up) which in turn, we think, blew out the lower damn draining both ponds.

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~John Muir

I couldn't resist an extra quote this week
and I think my companions will agree with this one ...

I remember a hundred lovely lakes, and recall the fragrant breath of pine and fir and cedar and poplar trees. The trail has strung upon it, as upon a thread of silk, opalescent dawns and saffron sunsets. It has given me blessed release from care and worry and the troubled thinking of our modern day. It has been a return to the primitive and the peaceful. Whenever the pressure of our complex city life thins my blood and benumbs my brain, I seek relief in the trail; and when I hear the coyote wailing to the yellow dawn, my cares fall from me - I am happy. ~Hamlin Garland, McClure's, February 1899

Shhh - Algonquin

2011-04-24T07:54:00.002-04:00

Shhh - Algonquin
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Shhhh.

Can you hear it?
I can.
Algonquin is calling, softly singing the siren song of old, come back, come back.
How can anyone who hears the call refuse it?
I know I cannot.
This was taken a year ago today, reworked on a dreary, Sunday morning, before I pack my bags :-)

The leaves of memory seemed to make
A mournful rustling in the dark.
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Fife Road Barn I

2011-04-17T16:26:00.003-04:00

Fife Road Barn I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

As I ventured out into a storm filled sky I seemed to think that winter was over.
I was mistaken, snow fell horizontally for much of the day, driven by a biting wind.

Winters last hurrah ?

Never be to sure when you face the Dark Lord of Winter ...

I am the Dark Lord of Winter
And all must fear my reign.
I preside over the long cold months of Winter
When the heat of life rests a barely glowing ember in my hands.
The months when stores from the harvest run low.
When hunting and foraging are the new sources of food.
The days which are more dark than they are light

I remember still the autumn when I first gained my power.
By mid-Winter my strength was full and fierce.
Yet all too soon...as is now...
The Spring weakens me and my footsteps grow heavy.
My sword weighs as a heavy burden to my hand.
The call of the Spring would sap the last of my strength
And bid me lay down my icy crown and slumber.

It is I who covers and consumes all that would be green.
I see through the eyes of the hunted and the hunter,
And draw the heat from the very earth.
All live and die by the law of my hands.
For I am merciless and unyielding
As the tempered steel of the sword I wield.
There are none who escape my rule
For I am everywhere and indomitable.

No creature may lay languid and unthinking,
As is so want under the hot Summer sun...
All must be keen and cunning to survive!
I bring strength and knowledge as my boon.
Each creature must face my challenge
To win these gifts.
Those who fail shall parish,
That is the unyielding law of my reign.

But do not think of me though as only harsh darkness!
Though I may steal a kiss of your precious heat
With the fall of each snowflake upon your cheek...
I am the sun of the cold Winter skies
Offering just enough nourishment to survive...
Despite the darkness of my reign,
You shall see not anything brighter nor brilliant,
Than the glittering whiteness of my snows.

Yet am I handsome and gentle.
For I forge each snowflake,
That falls softly upon the outstretched branches.
With the crisp wind I dance
In the mist of your breath...
Each riverbed I fashion
Into a glorious palace of ice...
So long as I rule shall my beauty remain.

Despite the struggles within my rule,
I am also peaceful and quiet.
The lonely wind blows across my barren fields,
With no leaf to idly rustle to its touch.
I am the intellect turned inwards,
Where thoughtful insight and wisdom is found.
You may find me in the quietness of your thoughts
As you stare out into the falling of my snow...

Forgive that each creature must face my harsh ordeal.
For I am the recession of rest after the exertion of growth.
Claiming back to the earth, that which was taken in life.
Without me there would be no release or respite...
With love, with fear, with understanding or respect
Remember me.
Remember me when you pass my final gate,
For I am the Dark Lord of Winter!

By: Greg Currie

Niska Trail - I

2011-04-10T08:09:00.002-04:00

Niska Trail - I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

As trails go, the Niska Road trail in Guelph is not very long but every spring it offers up these little streams and every spring I visit them, they are like old friends now.

Within a month they will be gone as the wetlands that birthed them dry up but while they are flowing they offer so many photographic opportunities.

Rippling water, dappled shade from the old tree's what a wonderful place.

You could not step twice into the same rivers;
for other waters are ever flowing on to you.
- Heraclitus of Ephesus

Algonquin - Whiskey Rapids

2011-04-03T16:01:00.002-04:00

Algonquin - Whiskey Rapids
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Today I was strolling down memory lane, looking at images from this time last year.
Whiskey Rapids in Algonquin was a bit of a disappointment, I was looking for class 1 whitewater !
Oh well, it did bring to mind the annual trip to this magnificent part of the world. A trip that is becoming an annual event.
This image brought back memories, not only of other images from the trip but memories of shared laughter, warm evenings and warmer friendships.

Soon it will be time to make more memories as we plan the next trip.

We do not remember days; we remember moments. ~Cesare Pavese, The Burning Brand

Brit

2011-03-27T21:02:00.003-04:00

Brit
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Today Grant put on a portrait workshop for the Guelph Photographers Guild.
I asked Brit to come with me to allow me another chance to get a portrait of her.

The idea was to use the studio setup to make a portrait with my Hasselblad, unfortunately the Hasselblad or the wireless setup wouldn't co-operate so I took 2 quick images with my D300.

This is one of them.

Thank you sweetie for putting up with me and my strange friends for 2 hours just so that I might steal 1/180 second of your life to brag about.

What greater thing is there for human souls than to feel that they are joined for life - to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories. ~George Eliot

Lone Pine Sunrise

2011-03-21T07:55:00.002-04:00

Lone Pine sunrise
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It was the night of the 'supermoon', these news people really get carried away don't they!

Well it started off as a Moon set trip. I knew where I wanted to go and when. Unfortunately a bank of cloud put paid to that idea....
So when you are given lemons you make lemonade, so I waited for the sunrise instead.

I must be getting soft or getting used to the above zero temperatures. The temperature was only -7c but my hands were so stiff I could hardly work the camera. It was only a couple of weeks ago I was scoffing at the "glove wearers" ....

Happy vernal equinox

It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. ~Charles Dickens

Un Autre Monde (Another World)

2011-03-13T08:42:00.002-04:00

Un Autre Monde (Another World)
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

A change of pace yesterday. Doug, Grant, John and I visited Glen Williams Ontario.
I must say that I have never been in a friendlier place since Lunenberg NS
Even at this 'blah' time of year this is a pretty little town, it's inhabitants elevate it beyond the average.

Here you find an enclave of artists and store owners who are passionate about what they do and it shows.

A breath of fresh air in a world of mediocrity.

What was any art but a mould in which to imprison for a moment the shining elusive element which is life itself - life hurrying past us and running away, too strong to stop, too sweet to lose. ~Willa Cather

The Photographer

2011-03-06T13:21:00.002-05:00

The Photographer
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Saturday was wet, very wet.
Doug and I headed over to the Farmers Market here in Guelph. The market was just re-opening after some roof repairs so the atmosphere was like a homecoming.
We met with KC at his stall and chatted for a while then JohnQ showed up, the merry band of brothers was growing.
Down through the market to visit with Bunny at her stall. More banter and along came Matt.
2 hours went by, I had barely lifted my camera!

Eventually we Doug, JohnQ and I wandered off in search of tea and another 2 hours disappeared.
No photo's yet but a Saturday morning well spent in camaraderie, easy banter and tea ..... yeah!

So only my thoughts this week, plus a photo of my new toy.

In closing, the lesson learned yesterday ...

It takes a long time to grow an old friend. ~John Leonard

Visual Haiku

2011-02-27T07:09:00.002-05:00

Visual Haiku
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Everyone was busy this weekend so it was one of those increasingly rare days when I went out alone.
I had decided on a long drive but at the last minute changed my mind and went to the Arboretum in the UofG.

My choice today was my Nikon F4 loaded with Kodak BW400CN film with my Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 AiS. My D300 sported my Nikkor 85mm f/1.8 AiS. That's it, no bag of gear just 2 camera's and 2 fast lenses.

The trails were rutted, frozen and slippery, a difficult place to walk without concentrating on where to put your next step but I already knew what I was looking for ...

It took about an hour to find it.

Plenty of time to ponder, wander and think about my favourite season, about how amazing life is.
That something that seems so fragile can survive our winters and yet come to life in the Spring.

The wheel turns.

Of winter's lifeless world each tree
Now seems a perfect part;
Yet each one holds summer's secret
Deep down within its heart.
~Charles G. Stater

Self Portrait

2011-02-21T08:26:00.002-05:00

Self Portrait
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

What is this ?

This unending need, to see, to experience, to witness, to create.

Just to be "out there".

Here I am sitting on an old stool, in a derelict building, in the middle of a Canadian winter, camera in hand and loving every minute of it.

Ah yes! now I know what I am doing, all of the above is but a means to an end

The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the universe, to match your nature with Nature. ~Joseph Campbell

Yes that's what I am doing ......

Tie Tacks

2011-02-13T13:48:00.003-05:00

Tie Tacks
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Last evening I was talking with my friend Doug about how he was planning a studio session shooting some of his memento's handed down from his father.
This fired my imagination and I too dug out some of the things given to me by my Dad.

These tie tacks were my Grandfathers and possibly belonged to his father before him.
I have no idea who the person is in the portrait, although I wish I knew.

To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell, Hallowed Ground

Streetcar on Queen

2011-02-06T08:38:00.004-05:00

Streetcar on Queen
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This place is foreign to me, but once in a while I visit.

Why?

I am uncomfortable here, the unrelenting noise, the hustle and bustle, car horns, sirens, the clatter of the streetcar, all jangle my nerves.

Yet still I go back ..

Why?

Probably to remind myself why I left !

There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,
There is a rapture on the lonely shore,
There is society, where none intrudes,
By the deep sea, and music in its roar:
I love not man the less, but Nature more.
~George Gordon, Lord Byron, Childe Harold's Pilgrimage

Birthday Girl

2011-01-30T07:15:00.002-05:00

Birthday Girl
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Recently I bought myself a new softbox, backdrop and reflector set. My intent is to learn more about portraiture. Yesterday was my daughters birthday so I used it as an excuse to make this image of her.

I think every father will understand and nod sagely at these words:

Certain is it that there is no kind of affection so purely angelic as of a father to a daughter.
In love to our wives there is desire;
to our sons, ambition;
but to our daughters there is something which there are no words to express. ~Joseph Addison

Happy Birthday sweetheart.

Everton Walk - Fields of Gold

2011-01-23T08:44:00.004-05:00

Everton Walk - Fields of Gold
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Serendipity - We took the long way home from our trip to Everton Mill on Saturday, down side roads seldom, if ever driven.
We were rewarded by this classic winter scene. - Serendipity.

Have I mentioned how much I love winter? The silence is what gets me every time, the wind in the tree's, the crunch of snow underfoot, the occasional chickadee calling. I guess you could call me "the snow man" :-)

"One must have a mind of winter
To regard the frost and boughs
Of the pine-trees crusted with snow;
And have been cold a long time
To behold the junipers shagged with ice,
The spruces rough in the distant glitter

Of the January sun; and not to think
Of any misery in the sound of the wind,
In the sound of a few leaves."
- Wallace Stevens, The Snow Man, 1923

Algonquin Sunset

2011-01-16T09:26:00.002-05:00

Algonquin Sunset
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

In response to a new challenge on our club site I was looking back over my images from 2010.
When I got to the Algonquin series I happened upon this shot. Taken at sundown, in the early spring, during our "annual moose hunt" (with camera's not guns) This image brought back so many memories, memories of good times with friends and the wonderful tranquility that is Algonquin Park.

We do not remember days; we remember moments. ~Cesare Pavese, The Burning Brand

Grindstone Creek Marsh

2011-01-09T08:46:00.002-05:00

Grindstone Creek Marsh I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

When we decided to visit Grindstone Creek marsh I had an image in mind. Unfortunately, as so often happens, the weather didn't cooperate.
I wanted rays from the rising sun slanting across the frozen marsh, Oh well, "when the weather hands you lemons, you make lemonade" ;-)

The temperature was about -10c and the snow was drifting slowly downwards, a great time to be out in the woods and fields.

I spent many hours over the Christmas break poring over Ansell Adams work. He is such an inspiration. Too me he was a true master. However, I can only try to emulate, never duplicate or overtake what he accomplished, trying to even come close is damned near impossible!

So, one of his thoughts to ponder ...

"A great photograph is a full expression of what one feels about what is being photographed in the deepest sense, and is, thereby, a true expression of what one feels about life in its entirety". ~Ansel Adams

Little Cove Dawn

2011-01-02T14:54:00.002-05:00

Little Cove Dawn
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

During the Christmas break two friends and I took another trip north to the Bruce Peninsula.
We stayed overnight in Tobermory and Grant suggested a visit to Little Cove as it was close to where we were staying.
We awoke early in anticipation of a Georgian Bay dawn and were at the cove well ahead of sunrise. The only living souls around except for a red fox that we disturbed.
The sunrise did not burst across the bay as we had hoped but it softly lit the cloud cover. The reflections on the calm surface of the bay mirrored the sky.
I made many images in the two hours we were there but when I saw this one through my viewfinder I knew it was the one.
Little Cove on a cold, snowy morning, with friends, what a great day!

The color of springtime is in the flowers, the color of winter is in the imagination. ~Terri Guillemets

Oh! Christmas Tree

2010-12-27T09:33:00.002-05:00

Oh Christmas Tree
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Early Christmas morning, before the house awoke, I took the first of my "traditional" Christmas shots. Next comes the family portrait which believe me is quite the spectacle!

I hope that everyone had a very Merry Christmas !

Who says it better than Irvin Berlin ?

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas,
Just like the ones I used to know,
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow...
~Irving Berlin

Westfield Village - 'Twas the night before Christmas

2010-12-19T13:24:00.002-05:00

Westfield Village - 'Twas the night before Christmas
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Yesterday I wasn't a happy soul.
In fact I was downright miserable.
It was one of those times when all you want to do is hide away.
But that is not good.

I had made arrangements to go to Westfield Village with some friends but begged off.
Thankfully they decided I needed a kick in the pants and made me go anyway. Despite myself, I had a good time, the banter over supper, bumping into friends in the village, sitting sipping apple cider to banish the winter chills slowly changed my mood from blue to rosy.

Which brings me to my quote of the week:

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer

Thanks guys ! You know who you are.

Brewing Heavy Weather

2010-12-12T08:39:00.002-05:00

Brewing Heavy Weather
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

My friend Doug and I took a journey North on Friday. The Bruce Peninsula holds so much promise at any time of year but in the winter it's almost prehistoric. I love it !

During the planning I thought I would show Doug some of the lighthouses that dot the rugged shoreline. Our first stop was Cape Croker where we hoped to catch the sunrise.

No sunrise but we were greeted with howling winds and horizontal snowfall but hey, dress for the conditions and its invigorating.

As I walked the shore and kept looking back at the lighthouse I began thinking of all the lighthouses and in turn the keepers of those lights who down the centuries have protected the sailors with a steady beacon that shows the way home.

A couple of thoughts:

No one will ever know how many lives have been saved by the many lighthouses that dot the dangerous coastal waters of this world. Yet today, most of these towers stand dark and uninhabited, victims of progress. Sensitive sounding devices have taken over the function of these sentinels in warning ships off the shoals.

It cannot be denied that such modern instruments are an improvement. They “see” danger ahead, even in fog so thick that the most powerful lighthouse beam would not be visible for more than a few hundred feet. Yet even people who have never viewed an actual lighthouse seem to be saddened by the closing of this romantic chapter in the history of the men who go down to the sea in ships.

The main reason for this regret is easy to understand. It is the passing of the human element in this story of man’s struggle against the forces of nature. The lighthouse keeper was a legend – and with good reason. Now buried in the yellowing files of old newspapers are many accounts of heroism on the part of these men who put duty before personal safety, often at the cost of their own lives.

A machine can do its “duty”, of course, but it is only man who possesses the divine spark which carries him to heights “above and beyond” the call of duty. And those who occupied these lonely outposts had to have this quality in full measure. Theirs was not only a dangerous life, but a lonely one, unrewarding in material comforts.

Today it may seem trivial to give even passing thought to something which has outlived its usefulness. But the lighthouse was much more than just a pile of mortar and brick. It was a beacon which radiated the love of man for God – through his love and concern for his fellow man. ~ Author Unknown

and, if you are still reading ..

The LIGHTHOUSE by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The rocky ledge runs far into the sea and on its outer point, some miles away
the lighthouse lifts its massive masonry, a pillar of fire by night, of cloud by day.

Even at this distance I can see the tides, upheaving, break unheard along its base,
A speechless wrath, that rises and subsides in the white lip of tremor of the face.

And as the evening darkens, lo! how bright, through the deep purple of the twilight air,
Beams forth the sudden radiance of its light with strange, uneartly splendor in the glare!

No one alone; from each projecting cape and perilous reef along the oceans verge,
Starts into life a dim, gigantic shape, holding its lantern o'er the restless surge.

Like the great giant Christopher it stands upon the brink of the tempestuous wave,
Wading far out among the rocks and sands, the night-O'er taken mariner to save.

And the great ships sail outward and return bending and bowin o'er the billowy swells,
And ever joyful, as they see it burn, they wave their silent welcomes and farewells.

They come forth from the darkness, and their sails gleam for a moment only in the blaze,
And eager faces, as the light unveils, gaze at the tower, and vanish while they gaze.

The mariner remembers when a child, on his first voyage, he saw it fade and sink;
And when returning from adventures wild, he saw it rise again o'er ocean's brink.

Steadfast, serene, immovable, the same year after year, through all the silent night
Burns on forevermore that quenchless flame, shines on that inextinguishable light!

It seems the ocean to is bosom clasp the rocks and sea-sand with the kiss of peace
It sees the wild winds lift in their grasp, and hold it up, and shake it like a fleece.

The startled waves leap over it; the storm smites it with all the scourges of rain,
And steadily against its solid form press the great shoulders of the hurricane.

The sea-bird wheeling round it, with the din of wings and winds and solitary cries,
Blinded and maddened by the light within, dashes himself against the glare, and dies.

A new Prometheus, chained upon the rock, still grasping in his hand the fire of love,
it does not hear the cry, nor heed the shock, but hails the mariner with words of love.

"Sail on!" it says, "sail on, ye stately ships! And with your floating bridge the ocean span;
Be mine to guard this light from all eclipse, Be yours to bring man nearer unto man!"

So today's image is dedicated to sailors everywhere and to those who have guided them safely home.

A quiet place

2010-12-05T11:19:00.004-05:00

A quiet place
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This old chair sits in a quiet corner just off the main drag in Elora.
It looks to be well used.

I think the "feel" of this place was best served by recording this image on film, It has a quiet softness about it, much like the location.

"Never be afraid to sit awhile and think." ~Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun

No Doug - Like THIS !

2010-11-28T07:54:00.002-05:00

No Doug - Like THIS !
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

A few hardy souls, Doug, Andrew, Grant and I walked the Trans Canada Trail in St. Jacobs yesterday.
At one point we were surrounded by chickadee's and this moment presented itself.
It's good to have friends, it's even better to have friends who you can laugh at / with!

I know the photo is awful but it is one of my best :^)

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer

Carolers - Downtown tree lighting extravaganza

2010-11-21T13:41:00.002-05:00

Carolers - Downtown tree lighting extravaganza
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I know, I know, it's only November but have you noticed that the merchandisers start earlier and earlier with each passing year?
Barely has Halloween finished before the Christmas offerings are flooding the shelves.

Last Friday evening we in Guelph celebrated the lighting of the tree in our downtown square. Despite the "it's November, dammit! " chorus there is something special about this little gathering. Bumping into old friends every one smiling and happy makes me think "why isn't it like this all year long"?

Yes even this old pagan can feel the wind of change that this time of year brings and I love it !

Even if it is November ...... <|:^)

I hear that in many places something has happened to Christmas; that it is changing from a time of merriment and carefree gaiety to a holiday which is filled with tedium; that many people dread the day and the obligation to give Christmas presents is a nightmare to weary, bored souls; that the children of enlightened parents no longer believe in Santa Claus; that all in all, the effort to be happy and have pleasure makes many honest hearts grow dark with despair instead of beaming with good will and cheerfulness. ~Julia Peterkin, A Plantation Christmas, 1934

Limehouse - Somewhere over the rainbow

2010-11-14T15:57:00.003-05:00

Limehouse - Somewhere over the rainbow
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

The forecast was not particularly good for today but we ventured out for a while anyway. The minute we arrived at our destination in Limehouse, Ontario it started to rain!

Luckily it was but a passing shower. As we stepped out of the car we were greeted by this spectacular rainbow. Not only was it complete but double. It was going to be a good day ...

Two quotes for today:

The soul would have no rainbow had the eyes no tears. ~John Vance Cheney

and after a weekend surrounded with good friends, you know who you are ..

May you always have work for your hands to do.
May your pockets hold always a coin or two.
May the sun shine bright on your windowpane.
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you. ~ Irish Blessing

Hilton Falls - Birch Bark

2010-11-07T16:00:00.002-05:00

Hilton Falls - Birch Bark

Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

'Tis the season of slanting shadows. Now I will seek out the woods where fingers of light probe deep and sometimes land upon something special, like birch bark.

From within or from behind, a light shines through us upon things, and makes us aware that we are nothing, but the light is all. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Fifty Point Conservation Area - Dock O' the Bay

2010-10-31T11:56:00.004-04:00

Fifty Point Conservation Area - Dock O' the Bay

Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I love mornings.
If I sleep past 6:00 am I feel like I have wasted half the day. :^)

On Saturday morning a few brave souls (Doug, Grant and Karen) and I set off long before dawn to capture the sunrise at Fifty Point Conservation Area.

Was it worth it ? Of course !

The sun is but a morning star. ~Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Ignatius Centre - Whitewash

2010-10-24T20:27:00.002-04:00

Ignatius Centre - Whitewash
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Wandering the trails at the Ignatius Centre this weekend was something that is not new to me by any stretch of the imagination.
However this day I felt a thankfulness that there are still those who work the land in concert with the way it should be worked. That there are still those who love it as much as I do but are lucky enough to make it their life.

In the old orchard I stopped and plucked an apple and was reminded of the old song "Hey farmer farmer, put away the DDT now. Give me spots on my apples, but leave me the birds and the bees" by Joni Mitchell.

Yes it was covered in spots but it still tasted good :-)

But it did make me think .....

Will urban sprawl spread so far that most people lose all touch with nature?
Will the day come when the only bird a typical American child ever sees is a canary in a pet shop window?
When the only wild animal he knows is a rat - glimpsed on a night drive through some city slum?
When the only tree he touches is the cleverly fabricated plastic evergreen that shades his gifts on Christmas morning?
~Frank N. Ikard, North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference, Houston, March 1968

Dundas - Pure Gold

2010-10-17T08:13:00.002-04:00

Dundas - Pure Gold
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
Fortune still smiles upon us here in Southwestern Ontario.

We are in the midst of our "Indian Summer" and the world is lit by a golden glow, well at least my world is.

My friends and I decided that this year Autumn is definitely a time of yellows and golds as opposed to the reds of previous years.

Even though there is frost in the air come morning, everywhere the leaves and the woods are suffused with warmth and the smell, oh yes! Trampling through the carpet of fallen leaves releases the musty smell that only this time of year can produce.

The rustle of the dried leaves whispers of things to come, promises to be kept as the wheel turns and another year draws to a close.

But not yet, not yet ....

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~John Muir

Photo of the Weekend - Falling Water, Fallen Leaves

2010-10-11T06:03:00.001-04:00

Falling Water, Fallen Leaves
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

This is my time.
Fall is here bringing warm days and cool nights.
The forest sounds are changing as the leaves dry, change colour and begin to fall. The forest floor is covered in a carpet of red and gold.
Ah Autumn at last, I wait all year for this.

This Thanksgiving weekend Doug, Karen and I visited a couple of waterfalls; Progreston and Grindstone Falls in and near Waterdown Ontario.

Grindstone Creek tumbles along a rocky course below the falls and is flanked by the Bruce Trail. Following that trail gives so many opportunities to make photographs, Scenes like this are plentiful.

Autumn by a river or a creek provides a great place to sit, think, watch and wait and listen for the voice inside that says 'yes there, fire the shutter quickly before the moment is forever gone '

Through my lens I hope to convey more than what I see. I hope to convey what I feel, what Autumn in the woods means to me.

...it does seem to me that Capa has proved beyond all doubt that the camera need not be a cold mechanical device. Like the pen, it is as good as the man who uses it. It can be the extension of mind and heart... John Steinbeck

Photo of the weekend - Gray Dawn

2010-10-03T08:12:00.003-04:00

Gray Dawn

Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

A brief glimpse of the sun as it rose on Saturday morning, before the rain came .
This was a happy accident, I had left my camera set for "Monochrome" and this was the first shot of the day.

I liked it then and I like it now.

Sadness flies on the wings of the morning and out of the heart of darkness comes the light. ~Jean Giraudoux

Photo of the Weekend - Belfountain - Fall Arrives

2010-09-26T17:27:00.003-04:00

Belfountain - Fall Arrives

Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Are you like me? If you are then this is what we wait for all year. We suffer through the baking heat of Summer thinking of this time.

Autumn is here !

"I am rich today with autumn's gold,
All that my covetous hands can hold;
Frost-painted leaves and goldenrod,
A goldfinch on a milkweed pod,
Huge golden pumpkins in the field
With heaps of corn from a bounteous yield,
Golden apples heavy on the trees
Rivaling those of Hesperides,
Golden rays of balmy sunshine spread
Over all like butter on warm bread;
And the harvest moon will this night unfold
The streams running full of molten gold.
Oh, who could find a dearth of bliss
With autumn glory such as this!"
- Gladys Harp

Tiger Boys Airshow - High Flight

2010-09-19T08:20:00.003-04:00

Tiger Boys Airshow - High Flight
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

The 3rd weekend in September is the Tiger Boys Airshow and open house in Guelph. This year, the weather co-operated with wonderful clouds and cool breezes.

A few friends and I spent the day there wandering around with no restrictions and photographed these lovingly restored "kites" as they performed for us all. A great day out and through it all I thought of John Gillespie Magee Jr's poem :

" High Flight"

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
of sun-split clouds, — and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air....

Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark nor even eagle flew—
And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

John Gillespie Magee Jr (Wiki)

Me ? I would rather stand on Terra Firma and photograph "those magnificent men in their flying machines" :-)

Photo of the weekend - The Doors

2010-09-12T11:07:00.013-04:00

No not THE "doors" just a pile of old doors in an abandoned barn.

Then again maybe not, when the light hits at a certain angle something magical happens ....

A moment captured on Kodak Tmax 400
developed in Xtol 8.5 min at 21c

Film gives such a different feel to a image, to me it's more alive. A chemical process instead of a digital one.

I never question what to do, it tells me what to do. The photographs make themselves with my help. ~Ruth Bernhard

Photo of the weekend - Ottawa - Reflections

2010-09-06T16:30:00.004-04:00

Ottawa - Reflections
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

We were In Ottawa for a family reunion this weekend.

Not much time to be alone, not much time to wander the mean streets.
While swarms of tourists lined up to take "the shot" of the Parliament Buildings I wanted something different .

What did I do ?
I stole an idea from my friend Doug and looked in the windows, a lot of windows!
Until I saw this.

Did you ever wonder if the person in the puddle is real, and you're just a reflection of him? ~Calvin and Hobbes

Photo of the weekend, The Wren's - Magic

2010-08-29T20:49:00.002-04:00

The Wren's - Magic
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
Thanks to Matt we were able to visit with his family at their farm today.
Not only were we graciously received and well fed but were were given a tour of the property.
I have wandered in many magical places but this takes the prize.
Thank you the the Wrens for being such great hosts!

"When we touch this domain, we are filled with the cosmic force of life itself, we sink our roots deep into the black soil and draw power and being up into ourselves. We know the energy of the numen and are saturated with power and being. We feel grounded, centered, in touch with the ancient and eternal rhythms of life. Power and passion well up like an artesian spring and creativity dances in celebration of life."
- David N. Elkins

Photo of the Weekend - Is this the end, or the beginning?

2010-08-22T07:50:00.001-04:00

Pow Wow Trail - Is this the end, or the beginning?
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

The wheel turns,
Winter turns to Spring.
Spring becomes Summer.
The sunflowers raise their faces to the sun.

Summer becomes Fall, the sunflowers hang their heads, now heavy with seed, and wait for the Spring when the cycle begins again.- me

As soon as I saw the sunflower patch in the early summer I have waited for this day.

Photo of the weekend - Bruce Peninsula

2010-08-16T06:48:00.001-04:00

Bruce Peninsula - Abandoned I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

My wife and I were away on a short vacation up on the Bruce Peninsula last week. As usual I was always on the lookout for 'abandoned' places.
This one is a bit of an enigma. The more I think about this place the more I wonder, is it really abandoned or is someone working on it?

No matter, it's a beautiful place, protected by tree's and the gardens are full of wildflowers (weeds to some)

Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave, and grow old wanting to get back to. ~John Ed Pearce

In this case I hope it's the latter

Photo of the weekend - McGowan Falls Study

2010-08-08T16:06:00.001-04:00

Durham Trip - McGowan Falls Study
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

The day started of wonderfully cool a sign of things to come!
Unfortunately as the sun climbed higher so did the temperature.
In spite of that it was a good day, then again isn't a day out with friends always a good day?
McGowan's Falls in Durham Ontario was our first stop. Even though this falls is quite small there is so much to see here I chose to spend my time amongst the 'details' those little side streams and rivulets. I always think of the "immovable object meets unstoppable force" saying when I look at the sometimes tiny rocks resisting the power of the water. It's quite humbling really those little rocks holding their own while our conversation is swept away by the roar of the water .....

I came where the river ran over stones;
my ears knew an early joy
And all the waters of all the streams
sang in my veins that summer day.

- Theodore Roethke, The Waking, 1948

Photo of the weekend - Sunflowers part II

2010-08-02T07:51:00.001-04:00

Sunflowers part II
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

One last trip to the sunflower patch. Their heads are heavy with seeds now and soon they will bow to the pressure.

The flower offered of itself
And eloquently spoke
Of Gods
In languages of rainbows
Perfumes
And secret silence...
~Phillip Pulfrey, from Love, Abstraction and other Speculations

I think that this one may have a hidden secret though as she smiles at the passers by ...

Photo of the weekend - Puslinch Sunflowers

2010-07-25T15:21:00.001-04:00

Puslinch Sunflowers - I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Last weekend was a disaster ...

Earlier this week I spotted the elusive sunflower patch. I say elusive because I have been looking for weeks!
Of course when I saw it I didn't have my camera with me. So this morning a friend and I went back.
The morning was cloudy, dull and quite miserable but the sunflowers were smiling. How could you not smile back?

Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul. ~The Koran

Photo of the weekend - St Boniface Cemetery Maryhill - Old Stones II

2010-07-12T19:30:00.001-04:00

St Boniface Cemetery Maryhill - Old Stones II
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Some think that cemeteries are places to put the dead and forget about them, except on an anniversary.

Lets face it, cemeteries are rarely visited by the living.

I, on the other hand love wandering in old cemeteries, reading the stones and thinking of the hopes and dreams buried there.

The history of the area waiting to be read.

Morbid ?
Maybe but not to me.

Do I want to end up in one ?
No thanks, just scatter my ashes to the wind ...

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
I am the softly falling snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
I am the fields of ripening grain.
I am in the morning hush,
I am in the graceful rush
Of birds in circling flight,
I am the starshine of the night.
I am in the flowers that bloom,
I am in a quiet room.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.

Mary Elizabeth Frye

For those sharp eyed individuals yes I changed the post.

Photo of the weekend - A different Light

2010-07-04T14:37:00.003-04:00

Trans Canada Trail nr Ariss - IR
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
I spent the last few days exploring ....

Searching for a light that I cannot see, making guesses and mistakes along the way.
After 3 days of trying I feel that I am beginning to understand.

There is more than meets the eye, there is this "other" light and with practice, we can capture it and bend it to our will.

Infra Red, beyond our vision but not beyond our grasp.

Infra Red reveals a strange beauty, an alien world.

In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. ~Aaron Rose

This was taken on the Trans Canada Trail this morning, converted to Black and White and a sepia tint applied.

28mm lens
ISO 200
60 sec exposure at f/2,8

edit :
Is this why I spent so much time on this this weekend?
100 years of IR

Photo of the weekend - Baden House Treasures

2010-06-27T19:18:00.001-04:00

Baden House - Treasures
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

"Tell me what you read and I'll tell you who you are" is true enough, but I'd know you better if you told me what you reread. ~François Mauriac

But who are you if you destroy a book ?

From my adventures to "the Baden House" on Saturday morning. Everyone has visited this place and I am sure everyone has photographed the old burned bible. However only one visitor and certainly not one of the rurex / urbex crowd would have thought to set it alight.
Even though I am not religious I still think this is sacrilege.

Ian and I met the owner of the property during our visit. Her fear was "Kids" who come to destroy her property, who can blame her?

Photo of the weekend - Ribs

2010-06-20T20:15:00.001-04:00

Downtown Walkabout - Ribs
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

One of the umbrella's in "the square", downtown Guelph.
I liked the lines and patterns defined by the ribs.

No words on umbrella's today. It's Fathers Day, for those of you who still have your father with you, give him a call or better yet, a hug. Those of you like me who doesn't, give him a minute of your time and in a quiet place, whisper "Happy Fathers Day Dad"

My dad is resting exactly where he wanted to be and it was my honour to take him there.

Happy Fathers Day Dad

When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years. ~Mark Twain, "Old Times on the Mississippi" Atlantic Monthly, 1874

Photo of the weekend - U of G - The wedding spot

2010-06-13T21:07:00.001-04:00

U of G - The wedding spot
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Why this ?
I really don't know.
What I do know is I decided that I needed to photograph this odd structure again.
I had the chance to do a lot today but I decided that I would do a little. While most of my friends were off on a grand adventure I went to the U of G with Dave S. We spent a couple of hours wandering around taking the odd shot here and there talking and sometimes not.
All in all a very relaxing morning I'm glad I did it but I still have not figured out the attraction of this structure ....

I never question what to do, it tells me what to do. The photographs make themselves with my help. ~Ruth Bernhard

Photo of the weekend - Sun's Up

2010-06-06T21:15:00.001-04:00

Elora - Sun's Up
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

OK I'm cheating here, this was from last weekend but the film was developed during the week.
Wandering around Elora as the sun came up first I saw the carpet of daisies then the sun burst around and through this old tree.

One of the cardinal rules of photography, 'look behind you' !

Kodak Portra 160 vc and Hasselblad

It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men's hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit. ~Robert Louis Stevenson

Photo of the weekend - Cedar waves

2010-05-30T16:53:00.001-04:00

Elora - Cedar waves
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing which stands in their way. ~William Blake

What better than a shady path through a forest in weather such as this? I was out early and ~~alone~~ by myself on Saturday wandering around and through the Elora Gorge. This is where I came across the remains of this old cedar. There is beauty and sadness here, it's life etched in it's bones. I stood looking at this old tree for a long time. I knew I had to make an image of what I saw.
I hope you see why.

And this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything. ~William Shakespeare

Photo of the weekend - Schneider Flats - Cedar Fencepost I

2010-05-24T16:56:00.001-04:00

Schneider Flats - Cedar Fencepost I
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

Twice this weekend I visited Schneider Flats. The days could not have been more different, Sunday morning was foggy and cool, today was baking hot.
I'll take foggy and cool any day !

After the dog walkers left all that remained was the silence and the occasional bird call. As I walked back to the car i realized how much my pace had slowed.
It was if my body was saying "stay awhile"

We are lucky to have places such as this.

Let us be silent, that we may hear the whispers of the gods. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Photo of the weekend - Old Boots

2010-05-16T15:08:00.001-04:00

Studio - Old Boots
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

These boots were made for walking ...

I love these boots.

They are developing a nice patina with age and are ready to go in for their 3rd pair of soles. That's a lotta miles :-)

and yes they are soo comfortable.

Now shall I walk
or shall I ride?
"Ride," Pleasure said:
"Walk," Joy replied.

~W.H. Davies

Photo of the weekend - Ignatius Centre - Shadows

2010-05-09T21:03:00.003-04:00

Ignatius Centre - Shadows
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
As Jethro Tull would say "Brewing, heavy weather" was closing in; with heavy, rain laden clouds scudding across the sky we took our chances and drove to the Ignatius Centre, a Jesuit retreat in Guelph.

Ignatius Centre

We were rewarded for our foolishness with periods of sunshine and shadows. I had chosen my Nikon F4, because it is waterproof (!) and AGFA APX 100 B&W film, one of my favourites, to take with me.

This scene lasted barely a few minutes but long enough.
I love the shadows :-)

Nature is man's teacher. She unfolds her treasures to his search, unseals his eye, illumes his mind, and purifies his heart; an influence breathes from all the sights and sounds of her existence. ~Alfred Billings Street

Photo of the weekend - Algonquin - Ragged Falls

2010-05-02T18:55:00.002-04:00

Algonquin - Ragged Falls
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
It wasn't taken this weekend but I developed the film this weekend :-)

Ragged Falls in Algonquin will captivate you for hours.
It's not just the falls it's the rapids.
Its not just the rapids
it's the trail from the parking lot to the falls and back.

You get the idea.

A difficult shot, the stark white of the falls to deep black of the craggy shadows, barely tamed.

I like it because of it's failings.

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you...
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.

John Muir

Photo of the weekend - Algonquin Birches

2010-04-27T07:06:00.001-04:00

Algonquin - Birches
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

A difficult choice this week, that's why it's posted on Tuesday.
Not that I am so good that I had so many to choose from.
I was trying to find the image that invokes the most powerful feeling.

Isn't this what Algonquin Park is all about?

The silence, a tranquil lake on a warm (ish) spring evening before the screaming hoards (both human and insect) arrive?

Yes, to me this is the essence of Algonquin. This why this is the "Photo of the weekend"

Photo of the weekend - Troll Bridge

2010-04-18T12:06:00.003-04:00

St Jacobs - Troll Bridge
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
OK enough colour, back to black and white. :-)

On our way back from St. Jacobs we wandered along the back roads and I spotted this old wooden bridge.
This shows the Nikon D300's monochrome engine in all its glory.
Pretty well straight out of the camera.
Monochrome setting with a "Red" filter applied.

I love this camera for it's ability to do this.

I tried a crop without the dark tree line across the top. I liked it this way better.

I saw this today and had to share it ...

http://www.quotegarden.com/nature.html

Photo of the weekend - Mount Nemo Birches

2010-04-12T07:38:00.001-04:00

Mount Nemo - Birches
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I didn't choose this because it's one of the lonely 'colour' shots.

It's more for the feeling....

This was a glorious spring morning and as Doug said "a great day to be out with friends". There was a great deal of laughter and camaraderie this day. Especially surrounding this shot, that is the memory, those are the feelings.

You are right Doug it was a great day.
Thanks to Andrew and Davey for being there too.

Photo of the (Long) Weekend - Lonesome Pine

2010-04-04T08:53:00.001-04:00

Lonesome Pine
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

On Good Friday a few friends Grant, Doug, Pat and I explored a couple of abandoned houses North of Milton. This was taken with my "Commie Camera" a Kiev 4 which is a Russian, Contax rangefinder, clone. Beautiful little camera, loaded with my favourite film AGFA APX 100.

Why choose this image? Considering it was taken on a bright sunny day the mood is totally opposite. I love the silhouetted tree, the rubble, the hint of a building and the light creeping in from the bottom corner.

AGFA APX 100 developed in Xtol 1+1 10min at 20c.

Photo of the weekend - Niska Trail

2010-03-28T18:29:00.001-04:00

Shanghai Test - Niska Trail II
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

It's been a struggle and I had just about given up with Shanghai GP3 film but this roll developed very nicely, with "a little help from me friends".

Taking their advice I developed this roll in Rodinal at 1+100 dilution for one hour at 20 deg c.

I must admit a one hour development regime is quite relaxing. I set my timer for one hour and the second timer for 55 min and had a nap :-)

This was taken along the river by Niska Road in Guelph.

Photo of the weekend - Ready

2010-03-21T20:23:00.002-04:00

Commie Camera - Ready
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy
On Friday I received my new "Commie" Camera, a Kiev 4 Rangefinder which is a Contax clone, complete with a Jupiter-8 50mm f/2.0 lens.
So I was itching to try it out.

I spoiled myself and used a roll of AGFA APX 100 on my road trip with Doug, Grant, Cathy and Pat. We decided to wander the back roads North of Milton ON looking for barns and farm houses. This freshly plowed field caught my attention with its wonderful leading lines.

Stand developed in Rodinal 20min at 20 deg c.

Photo of the weekend - Hassy 500C

2010-03-14T16:31:00.001-04:00

Rainy Day - Hassy
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

OK, OK it wasn't the best of the weekend but it is my new toy.
I sold my Nikon D2h and bought this with the proceeds.
I think it was a good deal, especially when the first roll of film came out properly exposed :-)

Photo of the weekend - Woodlawn Cemetery

2010-02-28T21:03:00.001-05:00

Woodlawn Cemetery - l
Originally uploaded by Alan Norsworthy

I love cemeteries, not that I would ever want to be in one.

This is Woodlawn Cemetery here in Guelph. On a cold, snowy day it has it's own, special, appeal especially to a black and white photographer.

This was taken with my Bronica SQ loaded with Shanghai GP3 B&W film. Developed in Rodinal 1+100 18min at 20c