The rain symbolizes a new start, and washing away of the old. On my bus ride up for a week of camp at Forest Home, we experienced more rain than we could imagine.
The rainstorm caused massive flooding and a landslide throughout the camp. Buildings were damaged and tents destroyed. When we say that God can move mountains, there is no joke in that.
Fortunately, the effort to restore the grounds and reopen camp has been in full swing since.
I've always had a constant yearning to repair my dad's old Canon AE-1, yet it remains a decoration on my bedside table. I have an appreciation for the medium, but it hasn't convinced me it can be a useful tool for me professionally.
I visited San Francisco a couple months ago. It was the first trip that really showed what my tilt-shift lens could do. As we ventured through the city, I did a lot of looking up. City life is a little different for someone who grew up in suburbia and retreats to the forest.
“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life. ”
In anticipation of returning for a week of camp at Forest Home, I went back through my archives of when I first started working there.
Of course, I had to re-edit these photos in my current vintage look. It's an interesting coincidence that some of the photos couldn't be redone today. The merry-go-round, zip line and tee-pees are now part of Forest Home history.
I was reminded of the fact that I am not a photographer, but a historian. Many of the events I photograph only happen once in a lifetime. There is a careful and humble attitude that needs to be adopted before every event; knowing that these are memories to last forever.
I like to think I appreciate the static. I am relieved when I can come back to something and it hasn't changed.
As trendy, hip and progressive I find my interests, I always come back to trying to achieve the timeless; whether it's something I photograph, design, or even write.
I went back through some photos and attempted to age them. Yes, it is pretty and current to make photos look vintage. However, it's fun to look at these and know that they were taken with a digital camera.
Nothing describes the sights, sounds and tastes of summer like your local county fair. It's a celebration of all things fun, festive and exciting.
One thing about me is that I actually don't really like carnival rides. I actually really enjoy looking at the displays, arts and crafts, but the rides do offer some great pictures.
Above: Onion Rings and Bacon Truffle Fries
The food at the fair is always an adventure just in itself. Try everything from bacon wrapped turkey legs to fried chocolate pickles (no thanks).
The OC Fair has a summer long concert series. We saw Matisyahu.
The fair is a different sight at night. I love seeing the carnival lights as well as the light from the huge LED signs create a different atmosphere.
Hope to see you at the fair soon!