Tag: French

Frame It Right: The Art of Composition in Photography Part II

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In my last article, we talked about three of the rules of composition, rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry.  We talked about the origins in classical art, as well of how to use them in our photography.  We also explored the implementation of these rules “or guides” and how we should practice each one, master it, and then move on to the next one.  You will still have your photos for the “Gram,” but more importantly, you will be growing as a photographer, gaining experience, and building a body of work.  You will, by definition start becoming more deliberate in capturing your shots, and will be more mindful than somebody just shooting blindly and praying that they get at least on shot!

In this article we will continue to explore certain concepts that be used to make our photographs even more engaging and interesting.  We will explore framing, i.e. using frames with in frames, and the use of negative space, used to isolate of emphasize our subject, and go minimalist.

Framing

When I say the word framing, I’m not talking about the gilded golden frame that you will use to frame your photography to give as gifts to your mother-in-law, but using visual frames inside your image to “frame” your subject…

These examples illustrate how framing can be a powerful tool in photography, guiding the viewer into the image and providing depth and context to the subject or scene being captured. A technique that can make your photos more engaging and immersive.  You can use trees, windows, element on the ground, buildings.  Go out and explore the world around you and try and “frame” your shots.

Negative space

Negative space is the space that surrounds our subject, this empty space or unoccupied space is almost as important as the subject itself.  It’s role is to create balance in the image and adds to the importance of the subject.

Key points

This negative “space” around the subject gives the subject room to breath, and takes away the clutter so we can concentrate on our subject.  It emphasizes the subject and leaves no doubt where the subject is to be found.  For those of you who want a “minimalist” approach to photography, it is one of the best ways to do this.  Less is more after all.  Think of simplicity, tranquillity, and elegance.  It can be used to create mood and atmosphere, and in landscape photography can portray ideas of solitude or freedom.  Think of a vast empty sky and rolling hills.  Negative space doesn’t have to be completely devoid of detail. It can be an area of uniform colour or texture that complements the subject and adds visual interest, or we can use depth of field to emphasize our subject

When using negative space, it’s essential to pay attention to the balance between the subject and the surrounding empty areas. The goal is to create a harmonious composition where the negative space complements and enhances the subject, rather than overpowering it. This technique can lead to powerful and emotionally resonant photographs, adding depth and impact to your work.

When you look at my photos of the girl against the colourful walls in Trentemoult in Nantes, think about how placing the model on the left or right of the frame makes you feel.  Looking forwards or looking backwords… 

Colour Theory

Colour theory is not just for those trendy designers in those advertising agencies.  If you go onto my Instagram feed, you will see that most of my work is predominantly black and white.  “So no colour,” I hear you say.  Well, yes and no.  Black and white photography concentrates on tones, but we can look at colour in the same way and seek balance in our colours.  So what’s this colour wheel then?  Well, it’s a way of looking at colours that go together, like green and red (think of Christmas cards), blue and orange, yellow and purple, all these colour are opposite on the colour wheel. Also, think about complimentary colours that are next to each other on the wheel, such as yellow, light green and dark green.  You will find yourself becoming aware of colours in nature and how they complement each other.  There will be some photographs that depend on this colour for their artistic value, and that won’t work in black and white photography.

Think about the portraits in the previous section and the natural colour in the photos in the country side.

Conclusion

We’ve continued our journey into composition by exploring how to use elements in our photos to frame our subjects. We’ve delved into the concept of negative space, emphasizing our subjects in our images. To conclude, we’ve begun to consider how colour can add harmony to our compositions. My advice is to incorporate these elements into your photography one step at a time. Don’t rush; there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. It’s a lot of information to take in, but as you explore each aspect mindfully, you’ll witness an evolution in your approach. Keep up the excellent work, and I look forward to our next session where we will talk about pattern and repetition, scale and proportion, and depth and layering.

Frame It Right: The Art of Composition in Photography Part I

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In my last article we talked about exposure, and balancing the elements that form the “exposure triangle”, i.e. the sensitivity of the film that we’re using, of the ISO setting on our camera sensor, the shutter speed, i.e. how long we let the light hit the film, or camera sensor, and aperture, i.e. the size of the hole that light comes through measured in F-Stops.  When these elements are in perfect osmosis, we should get a decently exposed photograph. 

Introduction to composition principles

Now we shall take this knowledge and build upon it with notions of composition, i.e. how we will organise the elements in our photograph.  Sometimes we have control of where these elements are, for example when creating a still life image.  Other times we have no control whatsoever and just have to move ourselves instead.  The way we do this is by thinking about our “Composition.”

As humans we are all guided by rules, some universally moral, some defined by the country we live in (like in France where they seem to be forbidden to make a decent up of tea), and Art is no exception.  There are rules in Art that make an image pleasing naturally to the eye, and, believe it or not, these “rules” have been around for a long time.  Now I hear you little rebels sat at the back of the classroom near the radiator saying how you don’t live by rules, and that you break every rule in the book.  And I have no problem with that.  I would however suggest you learn the “rules of composition” first and then, and only then break them knowingly.

Photography is art made with light, and the first photographers were heavily influenced by the art and paintings in the local Art Galleries.  They therefore had a very “classical” notion of composition.  I want you to imagine those massive oil paintings in a gold frame showing a Victorian gentleman looking over the top of a waterfall, framed by the forests, and still looking so dapper.

The Rule of thirds

This is one the first things that people will talk about when talking about composition.  The idea, as the name suggests is to divide a photo equally into thirds horizontally and vertically, and put the point of interest (subject) where the lines intersect.  Or you could have a landscape photo where sky will take up two thirds of the photograph and the foreground the other third.  In editing software, when framing you shot they will put a three by three grid on your photo automatically.  Some digital cameras allow the use of this grid inside the viewfinder.  When taking a portrait you would ideally have the eye where the lines cross.  Yes Ian, but this has been done, done, and done again, and has become a cliché I hear you say.  Possibly, but it works mate!  Don’t knock it.  As I said earlier, learn the rule, master using the rule, and then you might consider breaking the rule, but it will be a conscious decision and above all, deliberate.  But it will permit a pleasing and natural result.

Leading Lines and Perspective

Leading lines are lines that lead the eye into the photograph, turning it into something dynamic.  The lines will converge on a certain point in the image, which, if you want, can be on the grid that I described in the last section.  This point is the vanishing point, and give geometrical forms to your image, and can lead to the subject of you photo.  When using straight lines,you can emphasis to shapes in architecture and acquire a very “graphic” image.  Using a wide angled lens or even a fish eye lens will emphasize these line even further and the distortion of these lenses will add even more interest to your image.  I will talk about the most common lenses in a future article.  We’re not there yet. The lines don’t have to be straight, they can be curved or S shaped.  Think of a winding road in the countryside.  Whichever version you use, there will be a feeling of being drawn in to the scene. 

In the first photograph of the original Pegasus Bridge all the lines converge to a central point with a person standing which gives us an idea of the scale of the bridge.  These straight geometrical lines give a feeling of stability and solidity. 

In the second photograph, we can see an image that uses an S curve, and as you can see, the effect is totally different.  More subtle, but they eye is still drawn in to the image.

 Leading lines can appear in nature and in the landscape.  Look at the way that the tree line and lines in the mountains converge on a specific part of the photograph and show the different layers of the photograph. 

I seem to use them in quite a few of my photos, and with time, you won’t even have to seek them out.  You will be lead…

Symmetry in photography

In last week’s article we talked about exposure and how it is a balancing act between the three elements: film sensitivity, aperture, and shutter speed. We can find this symmetry in our compositions too. 

Symmetry in photography is a fundamental principle that enhances the visual impact of images. It involves balancing elements on both sides of a central axis or point. There are various types of symmetry, including horizontal, vertical, radial, and bilateral, each offering unique opportunities for creating appealing compositions. Symmetry naturally draws the viewer’s eye, adds stability, and is particularly useful in architectural, landscape, and macro photography. However, breaking symmetry with a contrasting element can introduce tension and creativity. By framing subjects thoughtfully, adjusting camera angles, and recognizing symmetry in both natural and man-made subjects, photographers can master this powerful tool for captivating compositions.

In summary, symmetry in photography is about creating balance and harmony through the arrangement of elements within the frame. It provides a sense of order, highlights patterns, and engages viewers, while also allowing for creative deviations when necessary to convey a specific message or emotion.

Conclusion

Firstly let’s not be fixated by these rules. I was right to describe them as “guides” to composition.  Talking about them is fine, but we have to put them into action.  Don’t try to do them all at once.  Take one rule.  Look at it closely.  Think how can I use this one rule?  How can I master it, or at least take it on board.  When you think that is is engrained into your mind, then start using a different concept.  I can’t stress that when learning, take your time.  Let the concept become second nature.   

There will be occasions when you feel that you are no longer advancing in your composition, but stick at it.  You will not obtain mastery after just one outing.  I’ve been doing this for 40 years and am still learning something new each time I go out with my camera.  People talk about being on a photographic journey, and that is a very good way of looking at it.  You can’t run before you can walk.  Don’t let yourself be overwhelmed by what you might see on Instagram, or even on this blog.  We are all at different places on this path.

In next week’s episode we will explore framing, negative space, colour theory, texture.  There will be a third article to cover pattern and repetition, scale and proportion, depth and layering.  There are so many points to talk about in composition that we may even have a fourth article but we’re not there yet! 

See you next week.  Until then, keep shooting!

Photography 101: Mastering the Fundamentals

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Why Photography?

Hello, Dear Reader,

I’ve decided to take some advice and start a series of articles focused purely on photography. You may already know how photography has impacted my life, and perhaps you’re hoping to discover something similar for yourself. This isn’t a formal course, and the advice I share comes from my own experiences over the years. My aim here is to offer you a useful reference point as you begin or continue your own photographic journey.

Let’s assume you’re new to photography and want to move beyond using your phone’s camera. You’re ready for a “real” camera. Does that sound about right?

From time to time, people approach me and say, “Ian, what’s the deal with photography? How do I get photos like yours?” That’s when my imposter syndrome likes to make an appearance. But despite that, I’m here to share what I know.

To begin, you’ll need a camera. I know it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve glanced at the price of a Leica and wondered if it’s worth selling a kidney. (Pro tip: hold off on that.) Leicas are beautiful, but you don’t need to break the bank to get started.

Any camera within your budget is a good starting point, especially if it allows you to control settings manually. Whether you choose film or digital, the fundamentals remain the same. Do you want the retro charm of a Canon AE1, the compact style of a Fujifilm X100F, or perhaps a more professional DSLR? The choice is yours, but remember: the camera is just a tool. It’s how you use it that matters. I’ve written some camera reviews you can check out, and I plan to add more in the future.

Now, let’s talk about the basics.

Exposure Basics

Photography is essentially about light—how much of it reaches your camera’s sensor (or film) and how it interacts with your subject. Too much light, and your image will be “overexposed” (too bright). Too little light, and it will be “underexposed” (too dark). You can, of course, play with these elements intentionally, using over- or underexposure to highlight specific areas of your shot. Photographers often talk about exposing for the highlights or shadows to get the right balance. In film photography we will expose for the shadows and in digital photography we expose for the highlights.

How do I control the light?

It all comes down to balancing three key elements, often called the “Exposure Triangle”: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Adjust one, and you’ll need to compensate with the others. Let’s go through each of these in turn.

Exposure triangle, showing the effects of aperture, shutter speed and ISO

Understanding ISO

ISO controls your camera’s sensitivity to light, crucial for getting the right exposure in your photographs. In film photography, it’s referred to as ASA, but the principle remains the same.

  • Lower ISO Settings (100-400): Ideal for bright conditions, such as sunny days, as they produce images with minimal grain or “noise.” For example, using ISO 100 outdoors on a clear day will give you crisp, clear shots.
  • Moderate ISO Settings (400-800): These settings are suitable for cloudy days or indoor lighting. Using ISO 400 allows you to capture good quality images without excessive grain, but expect some visibility of noise when using ISO 800 in dimmer conditions.
  • Higher ISO Settings (1600 and above): Perfect for low-light situations, such as indoors or nighttime photography. While ISO 1600 can help you capture images without a flash, be prepared for more noticeable grain. ISO 3200 can be used for very low light, but expect significant grain in the final image.

Modern digital cameras handle higher ISO settings much better than older film cameras did, significantly reducing noise even at higher values. The key takeaway is to experiment with different ISO settings to see how they affect your shots. Don’t hesitate to adjust your ISO based on the lighting conditions—higher sensitivity can make a big difference in capturing those special moments.

Shutter Speed

Shutter speed determines how long the sensor (or film) is exposed to light. A fast shutter speed—like 1/500th or 1/2000th of a second—will freeze motion, but it lets in less light, so you may need to increase your ISO to compensate. Slower shutter speeds (1/60th of a second or lower) let in more light but can cause motion blur or camera shake. If you’re handholding the camera, try to stay above 1/60th of a second. If you’re using a longer lens, say 85mm, you may want to use 1/100th of a second or faster to avoid shake.

For stability with slower shutter speeds, a tripod is your friend. Just bear in mind that vintage cameras often have lower maximum shutter speeds, but those quirks deserve their own chapter.


Aperture and depth of field

Aperture controls how wide the lens opens to let light in, and it’s measured in f-stops. A smaller f-stop number (like f/2.0) means a wider aperture, which lets in more light and creates a shallower depth of field—ideal for those portraits with a soft, blurry background. A higher f-stop (like f/16) means a smaller aperture, which lets in less light but keeps more of the scene in focus—perfect for landscapes.

Aperture not only affects the amount of light coming through but also how much of your image appears sharp. The trick is finding the right balance for the look you’re aiming to achieve.

Conclusion

One of the great things about digital cameras is that you can experiment with these settings without worrying about the cost of film. You can see the results immediately and make adjustments on the fly. Most digital cameras offer different modes to help you control the exposure. For example, “Shutter Priority” lets you set the shutter speed while the camera adjusts the other settings. “Aperture Priority” does the same for aperture. If you’re more experienced, you can take full control with manual mode.

This is just the first in a series of articles designed for beginners, but it’s always helpful for even the more seasoned among us to revisit the fundamentals. If you have questions, feel free to leave a comment. No question is too simple, and I’ll do my best to respond.

Until next time, Dear Reader.

Post Scriptum

I’ve noticed many of you arrive at this site through this page (probably from Google), so welcome! This is just the first in a broader series on photography. If you found this article helpful, there’s more where this came from. I also cover topics like composition, gear choices such as the Pentax ME Super, which as its name suggests is rather Super, the differences between 35mm and medium format, and my approach to street photography.

My aim is to demystify photography. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re just starting out or already have some experience, I hope you’ll find something useful here. Thanks for reading, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or leave a comment. I look forward to hearing from you.

A Day at Château de la Preuille: A Tale of Heritage, Friendship, and Unexpected Adventures

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Hello Dear Reader! Today, I want to share a story with you, a story that unfolded under the skies of Saint Hilaire de Loulay. It’s a tale of heritage, friendship, and a day filled with unexpected adventures at Château de la Preuille. This picturesque château, which I’ve been photographing since my arrival in Saint Hilaire in 2001, holds a special place in my heart. This year, it unveiled a new chapter in its history, one that I had the privilege to document.

The Château and Its New Custodians

As the warm September sun bathed the château’s iconic towers, I couldn’t help but wonder at how time had woven our lives together. What began as a photographer’s fascination with this beautiful place morphosed into something deeper when I had the chance to meet Sandra and Paul, the château’s new owners from the Netherlands. Our paths crossed through my frequent visits to the castle with my camera, our mutual following on Instagram. Little did I know that this connection would lead to an extraordinary invitation — to document the Journées de Patrimoine 2023.

Journées de Patrimoine: A Glimpse Behind Closed Doors

The Journées de Patrimoine, or Heritage Days, are an important tradition in France, and a tradition that I embrace wholeheartedly. It’s the time when historic sites and monuments, normally closed to the public, throw open their doors and reveal their secrets to curious visitors. And Château de la Preuille was no exception. On Sunday, the 17th of September, 2023, the château took part in this tradition offering a rare glimpse into its storied past.

The Old Kitchens and a Giant Rubber Duckie

Inside the château, the only area accessible to the public was the old kitchens, overlooking the moat. It is someones home after all. From here, you have a captivating view of the moat itself, one of the majestic towers, and a rather amusing resident – a giant yellow rubber duckie! The water level in the moat was a lot lower than it should be. It is leaking water and needs repairing, but it still allows those lovely reflection photographs that everybdy seems to like.

Inside the kitchens, I discovered Louis Georges my old neighbour, who was exhibiting his wooden models of monuments and buildings, including meticulous replicas of the château itself. The intricacy and attention to detail were nothing short of remarkable, making it easy to recognize these iconic structures. He used to make them out of matches, and still referred to himself the whole day as Monsieur Alumette!

An Array of Delights in the Grounds

The rest of the day’s festivities took place in the château’s picturesque grounds, where an eclectic array of stalls and activities awaited. From jewelry crafted from delicate petals and leaves in resin to a herbologist sharing the secrets of plants, there was something to grab everyone’s interests.

As I wandered through this tapestry, I encountered a sophrologist promoting relaxation techniques, a candlemaker, an artist who used vegetables and fruits in her art workshops, a plant vendor, Vinnochio, a local wine merchant, a model boat club “navigat”sailing” their vessels in the swimming pool, fire eaters, magicians, two mad scientists in trees (or as my wife called them, les deux zozos en blouse blanche) telling us how trees breathe, eat and drink, and so much more.

Reunions and Rediscoveries:

During the day, I was pleasantly surprised to see a large number of familiar faces and old friends whom I hadn’t seen for such a long time. The château, with its rich history and vibrant present, became a meeting point for cherished reunions and heartwarming rediscoveries.

These encounters were like snapshots of the past (which is very useful because my memory seems to be slowly going on strike, and I can hear the comedy duo Al and Heimer at the door, rekindling old connections and fostering a sense of community. The smiles and embraces were a testament to the power of such events in bringing people together. It was a reminder that in this world, where the pace of life often feels relentless, its good to be good to people and maintaining meaningful connections truly matters.

The simple act of reaching out, whether through shared interests, mutual acquaintances, or the universal language of photography, allowed for these meaningful reunions. It underscored the importance of nurturing friendships and how small seemingly ordinary gestures can lead to extraordinary moments.

As the day unfolded, and amidst the laughter, music, it became clear that the Journées de Patrimoine at Château de la Preuille extended beyond heritage and history; it was about celebrating the warmth of personal connections. In a world that sometimes feels divided, this day served as a poignant reminder that kindness, friendship, and the willingness to engage in the beauty of heritage and community are treasures that bring out the best in us all.

A Day of Discovery

Food trucks catered to the gastronomic cravings of the large crowd. The French may be the French, but their food is excellent! And a bar run by the Comité de fêtes (yes, we have a party committee!) kept spirits high as well as raising money for repairing the moat. A DJ from “Angleterre” provided the soundtrack, vintage car enthusiasts proudly displayed their cars, and a specialist showcased games crafted from wood.

As the day unfolded, live music filled the air, and I, yours truly, had the incredible privilege of documenting every moment. But it didn’t end there. The château played host to a cycling outing, with participants in cycling helmets and lycra looking sportier than ever. The château, now in Dutch hands, even offered a dedicated parking area for bikes. How very Dutch!

Conclusion: A Day of Heritage, Friendship, and New Beginnings

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Château de la Preuille, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. This day was not just about documenting history; it was about forging new connections, celebrating friendship, and cherishing the adventure that life brings.

So, Dear Reader, remember that life has a way of intertwining our passions and paths, leading us to places and people we never could have imagined. Château de la Preuille, with its rich history, artistic wonders, warm-hearted owners, and the embrace of old friends, showed me that heritage is not just about the past but also the vibrant present and the promising future.

Now, if you like the photographs in this article, I would suggest that you book a stay in the Castle. You can contact Sandra and Paul through their website, and Instagram. They can cater for range of events and the venue is popular for weddings. Can you imagine getting married and then staying in the very Castle where you had the reception. Yes you, you romantic little Reader, treat your spouse like the King or Queen that they are, and appreciate the magic. There may be a supplement for the massive rubber duckie. I’ll let you check with them….

Canon AE-1 Program – A Classic Film Camera for Timeless Photography

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The Canon AE-1 Program is a timeless gem that continues to captivate photographers and film enthusiasts alike. As a classic film camera first introduced in 1981, it effortlessly combines automatic and manual features, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced photographers.

Automatic and Manual Controls

One of the standout features of the Canon AE-1 Program is its versatility in handling exposure. For those new to film photography, the program mode automatically sets both the shutter speed and aperture, allowing them to focus solely on composition and creativity. It takes the technical complexities out of the equation, delivering stunning results with ease.

However, for those who crave creative control, the AE-1 Program offers manual settings as well. With the freedom to adjust shutter speed and aperture manually, photographers can explore their artistic vision and experiment with different effects. The inclusion of shutter priority mode and bulb mode for long exposure photography adds even more possibilities for artistic expression.

Build and Design

The camera’s solid metal body exudes durability and reliability, ensuring that it can withstand the test of time. Its sturdiness makes it a trustworthy companion on any photographic journey. Handling the AE-1 Program instills a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship that modern digital cameras often struggle to replicate.

The bright and clear viewfinder with a split-image prism aids accurate focusing, enhancing the overall shooting experience. Moreover, the hot shoe for attaching external flashes and the self-timer feature further contribute to the camera’s versatility.

Technical Details

  • 35mm SLR film camera
  • Program mode, shutter priority mode, manual mode
  • Metal body for durability
  • Bright and clear viewfinder with split-image prism
  • Hot shoe for flash attachment
  • Self-timer for group shots and self-portraits
  • ISO range: 12-1600
  • Shutter speeds: 1/1000 to 30 seconds
  • Aperture range: f/1.2 to f/16 (depending on lens)

Pros

  1. User-Friendly Interface: Ideal for beginners and those new to film photography, the AE-1 Program’s program mode takes care of exposure details, allowing photographers to focus on creativity.
  2. Creative Freedom: With manual controls and additional shooting modes, experienced photographers can fully unleash their creativity and experiment with different photographic techniques.
  3. Timeless Design: The camera’s robust metal body exudes a sense of craftsmanship and nostalgia, making it a pleasure to handle and use.
  4. Bright Viewfinder: The clear and bright viewfinder with a split-image prism aids accurate focusing, ensuring sharp and well-composed shots.

Cons

  1. Iconic Status: As one of the most sought-after film cameras, the Canon AE-1 Program may come with a higher price tag due to its iconic status.

The Verdict

The Canon AE-1 Program stands as a testament to timeless design and reliable performance. Whether you’re new to film photography or a seasoned enthusiast, this classic camera offers a perfect balance between automatic convenience and manual creativity. Its sturdy build and user-friendly interface make it a delightful companion for any photography journey.

So, if you’re yearning to experience the charm of film photography or simply want to relive the golden era of analog cameras, the Canon AE-1 Program will undoubtedly leave you inspired and amazed by the magic of capturing moments on film.

Happy shooting!

My Personal Thoughts

Without any hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend the AE-1 Program to all photography enthusiasts out there. Whether you’re new to the charm of film photography or an experienced shutterbug seeking a trustworthy and adaptable companion, this camera will surely delight you. “Just do it” as a certain shoemaker once said.

I’ve had the pleasure of using the AE-1 Program for quite some time now, and I must say it’s been an absolute joy. Not only does it beautifully capture those precious everyday moments, but it also allows for endless creative possibilities. One feature that I particularly appreciate is its seamless transition between automatic and manual controls, empowering me to effortlessly tailor my shooting experience.

The idea here is to give you a raw image from the film scans and show you what you can get with a minimum of fuss in Lightroom with some very basic edits. What do you think?

And here we go with a small selection of pictures from the last roll I developed, which are from 2022 and taken in the streets of Nantes. There will be more to come as I head back into the magical world of film photography!

A Whirlwind of Joy: A Day of Celebrations

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Sundays usually find me in the city of Nantes, where I prefer attending an evening Mass. You get a different crowd at the evening mass, and it feels more exclusive. This particular church stands out for its reverent atmosphere, the cherished celebrant, and the more traditional Mass it offers. It’s not just about tradition; it’s the sense of reverence it brings, allowing for leisurely Sunday mornings. But yesterday was different, and I found myself up at the somewhat ungodly hour to go to mass at 9:30 AM.

Why the early rise, you might wonder? I had a date with destiny at 1:00 PM, helping friends celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.

If you’ve read my recent article about bidding farewell to my beloved X100F, you’ll recall the camera’s untimely breakdown. Fate, it seemed, had other plans for me. The ISO dial had broken down, rendering me unable to control ISO settings. It was a frustrating predicament for any photographer.

In an attempt to assess the camera’s condition, I had left it sitting in my glove box for over a month, thinking I might need to send it for repairs. But yesterday, as I turned it on, I was amazed and baffled to see it working again as if nothing had happened. It was a photographic miracle, one that put a smile on my face.

With my trusted camera miraculously resurrected, I set off for my friends’ home, ready to revel in their love story and join the festivities. It was a heartwarming celebration, marking three glorious decades of their union. But there was more to this gathering than just an anniversary.

My friends had recently embarked on a journey to adopt their second child, a precious soul from China. They were soon to depart for China, eager to bring their new daughter home. The air was filled with palpable excitement, the anticipation of a new chapter in their lives.

As I arrived at the party, I was greeted not only by the radiant couple but also by familiar faces from my past. Friends who had once been my teachers and companions in the orchestra I had been part of until the previous year had gathered. It was a reunion of kindred spirits, a chance to catch up on life’s many twists and turns.

The day took an unexpected turn when my wife joined the festivities later in the after. She had been having a meal with the people she had learned to drive a school bus with, so she was going to be late. Little did I know that the surprise and icing on the proverbial cake were yet to come.

A Serbian orchestra arrived, instruments playing and walked playing up to the rest of us. The moment they began to play, the air was filled with a symphony of pure magic. The musicians entertained us with their musical virtuosity, their music becoming the heartbeat of the celebration.

Under the summer sun and the backdrop of a joyful celebration, the strains of Balkan music filled the air. It was as if the very essence of celebration had taken musical form. The infectious rhythms swept us off our feet, and we danced with abandon, reveling in the sheer euphoria of the moment. Laughter, love, and music merged into an unforgettable medley, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As I reflect on that day, I can’t help but marvel at how life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. What began as a simple morning Mass and a camera conundrum unfolded into a day of pure joy and connection. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best moments in life are the ones we don’t plan for—the unexpected gifts that leave our hearts brimming with gratitude.

And so, my summer concluded with a flourish, with the echoes of Balkan rhythms resonating in my heart. It was a day of celebrations, a day of love and friendship, and a day that reminded me of the beauty of life’s unpredictable dance. It’s safe to say that I’ll be holding onto the memories of this day for a long, long time, and perhaps reconsidering the pace of my Sunday mornings in Nantes.