cate power

Film 366 | 2016

In 2015, I delved into the wonderful world of film. It ended up exceeding my expectations in so many ways. A plethora of good things have happened to me since I started shooting film, such as getting published in Lemonade & Lenses, and being featured on Little Bellows. The biggest highlight was stumbling upon several medium-format cameras and a large-format camera. It was the opportunity to really dig into film that I would have never imagined possible for myself. Next, after the excitement of shooting with film, I had the additional boost of discovering the thrills of the darkroom.  What a year it has been; it was a time that I completely fell head over heels in love with film. The tangible reaction of the light hitting the silver halides in the film emulsion just makes my heart leap each time I press the shutter.  

To make 2016 another great year, I am committing to a 365 project where I shoot film each and every day this year. This is my second 365; in my previous one, I used my dSLRs. What do I love about the experience of doing a 365, and why I would want to do it again? It gives me the reason to really experiment and take risks. It also holds me accountable to my desire to continue growing as a photographer. It’s a ritual, when performed daily, that gives my pursuit a reverence. I've come to understand that the best work is produced when there is positivity and dedication. I've read about how the most determined writers pick up their pencils every day; in fact, all who are truly serious about achieving do practice every day. If we commit in this way, we are the ones most likely to have the greatest chance of success.

This project is about being both grateful and ambitious. It is forward motion. This is not at all like my first 365 where I could pretty much guarantee for myself a good image each day by shooting with a digital camera. (I was able to upload and edit, reshoot, each day as needed.) Now, I am relying on my abilities, the light or lack of light, and the uncertainty of my ability to make a good image each time I swing the bat. I am going to strike out a lot: incorrect exposures, boring compositions, and missed focus. I am embracing this vulnerability as an opportunity to really relish the times that I knock it out of the park. I can't wait to see what 2016 brings; my vision is a bit blurred at the start, but I have a feeling it's going to be magnificent. 

It's tangible.

17/366 sick day

86/366 run amiss - just not into it

88/366 missed again - i don't even have a good excuse!