Photography is a my business, but when I’m out shooting photos for my own enjoyment, photography is my passion and a form of personal expression. Many people enjoy photography as a hobby, and luckily we all see things a little differently. Inspired by the work of American photographer Duane Michals, I often work in sequences and explore themes and subtext in my personal photographs. Living in the same small village for nearly 16 years I am challenged to find new and innovative ways of seeing my community. I’ve probably spent what can be added up to several days or even weeks wandering this village looking for fresh images. Lately I have found myself drawn to the streets at night. There is something slightly haunting about Cumberland after dark. Shadows and dimly lit sidewalks create a swarthy and slightly dangerous ambiance. Glowing windows randomly dot the darkness and artificial lights create pools of color gathered up by the surrounding murkiness. There is a surreal mystery of place, and I like the sense of solitude unattainable on these same streets during the day. A sleepy hush falls over the entire village at dusk and I am lured out by the fog, and the bright moons, and starry skies.
Nighttime has always represented the darker side of the human experience, and we instinctively heighten our awareness in the dark. Humans have a long history of interactions with the night that has left a permanent impression in our collective psyche. Brave was the ancient cave dweller who ventured out past the safety of the campfire.
Working with the theme of nighttime and darkness pushes me to see what isn’t there as well as what is. The photography is as much about the process as it is about the finished product. I have worked with many different themes before, such as laundry, or the color green, or feet. Its amazing the kinds of things you can learn when you set out to explore the many facets of one particular topic.
Cool photos, Sharon,
When I was younger I was drawn to wandering the streets late at night. The landscape seemed quieter and more mysterious and I always wondered what might be hidden in the shadows. I never thought to take a camera along.
I like the idea of exploring themed subjects. So often we’re caught up in the day-to-day rountine and don’t see what’s right in front of us. That’s one reason I like spending time with young children, they’re always seeing the world with a fresh perspective.
Hi Paula, thanks for your comments. Children are amazing for how much they can teach us.