I have no idea why I had the urge to shoot most of the morning in black and white mode, bracketing exposures - one up and one down. I could hear my professor's voice in my head, telling me what I needed to do. You'd never know it by looking at my photos that I did take a few college courses in photography way back in the 70s. A different world then, but I really adored and admired my photography professor, John Frair. I have thought of him often through the years - but today it was different.
I've forgotten more than I can remember, so I pull out my old notes and read through them from time to time. My first class was large format, using a Yashica TLR. They issued us a camera for use and we had to buy the film, paper, and film canister. The university supplied the lab and chemicals. Can't ever forget my first assignment... We had to draw a word from a hat. Just one word and our photograph had to speak that one word. I drew "hard." LOL! Others drew simpler words. I had to draw "hard!" What on earth am I going to find to shoot that says "hard?" I took some shots of a concrete bench on campus, thought I had done what was assigned - 16x20 black and white printed and mounted - ready for class... WRONG! I think I got a "C" on that first assignment. Professor Frair said my photo did NOT say "hard."
I googled my old professor today, found his obituary and it saddened me very deeply. So this is a little dedication to him and his wonderful ways of conveying his love of photography to his students. I can't help but wonder if he'd approve of my photo today. I also discovered he had a book published on photography. Found it on Amazon and ordered.
Oh, this is a sweet narrative you wrote. Nice black and white shot. I am sure he would approve and motivate you to keep going. His book effective photography looks interesting. Review states; good for learning the basics.....I never took one course, maybe this is a good book for me as starter in photography. Let me know what you think.
@dutchothotmailcom You are so sweet to read this, Esther. Thank you! I ordered the paperback and it's a used version - what I could afford. If it covers half of the classes I took from him, I'll be happy. Will let you know, but your photography is great! You're doing fine. =)
