This has always been a tough time of year for me. Shorter days. Less sunlight. Colder temperatures. They all factor into the blahs! I diagnosed myself with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) many years ago. When I realized what was causing it, I did my best to find a way to spend more time outside soaking up the sunlight and the vitamin D it provides. I used to volunteer to do recess at school. Yes please! Don’t care that it’s cold. That’s what coats and mittens are for!
I’m retired now so I can’t volunteer for recess which means I have be more creative about spending time outside. I do love to walk and try to do just that several days a week, but it’s not motivating enough to keep me outside for as long as I think I should be. This is where my camera comes in!
Nikon Z7ii | Lensbaby Edge 35
I joined a local camera club this time last year. They hold monthly outings that we can attend to get those creative ideas from our heads onto a computer and hopefully shared so others can enjoy them as well! Earlier this month our outing was scheduled for the Strasburg Museum. If you’re not familiar with Strasburg Railroad , it’s a “heritage” train station in Ronks, Pennsylvania and houses Thomas the Tank Engine and authentic steam trains! You can even take a 45 minute ride on the steam trains. There is also a museum with old train cars, which was supposed to be the focus of our time, and an indoor replica of a vintage town. It was very charming but my favorite part was a walk across the street to watch the trains come and go! I took it one step further and drove down the road a bit for a more unobstructed view of the train returning the station!
Nikon Z7ii | Lensbaby Edge 35
On this trip I focused on using my Lensbaby Edge 35. It gives a slice of focus, in any direction you choose, and blurs of the rest of the image. Using a wide aperture this technique directs your attention to the portion of frame the photographer is trying highlight!
Being outside on this chilly winter day was wonderful! I was enjoying the cooler air, a little bit of sunshine and being creative! What’s your go to?