A dock on the bay

1/4 s
F/10
ISO 200
62mm

Some of my best art work has been created when I've been alone with my thoughts just me and my camera.  When I photograph I'll listen to my surroundings and try to take in whats happening at that moment "living in the now".  I ask myself where am I, what do I want and where can I find it.  I listen to little noises like the wind, distant animal life soft whispers of the ocean.  Might sound a little corny I know but I feel inspired (more artistic) when I work alone.  Inspiration.  I think it's an amazing word for us to have in our society, it means so much and I'm sure I'm not the only one that can relate to this.  Anyone with a dream who had the determination to to see it to fruition.  I have put the definition of Inspiration down for everyone.  There are a couple of questions I would like to ask What inspires greatness?  and What inspires you to be a better... ____  (Fill in the blank) I don't know, but I would love to hear what you think in the comments below.

in·spi·ra·tion [in-spuh-rey-shuhn]
1. an inspiring or animating action or influence: I cannot writepoetry without inspiration.
2. something inspired, as an idea.
3. a result of inspired activity.
4. a thing or person that inspires.
Theology.
a divine influence directly and immediately exerted upon the mind or soul.

Someone to watch over us

30s
F/5.6
ISO 200
18mm

I woke up early to take a few picture of my adopted city, I wanted to see her at night with no interruptions or distractions from commerce, foot traffic and the sounds that come along for the ride.  I had her to myself for a night a great opportunity to spend time together and learn about each other.  I have never seen her quite like this and it was extremely exciting.  I was a perfect gentlemen and a little nervous but I treated her with respect and only had eyes for her that night and in return she watched over me.  If I had to equate it to anything it would have to be a first date with an old friend.  Completely new and exhilarating yet surprisingly comfortable and relaxing all at the same time. I was truly the luckiest guy for about three hours.

I think we all need someone like that in our lives, someone to take care of us when times get rough and when that road seems too long to traverse.  We can all do this on our own but a little help from a trusted friend is always appreciated.  She provided many great opportunity's that night to perfect me as a person, and it was that type of team work that I felt and wanted to hold on to as long as I could.  Because this shot was not the easiest task for me, I had to be patient and very observant of my surroundings. Unfortunately patience is not a strong suit of mine, but I'm learning and working to perfect the art of "delayed gratification".

I walked for a few hours taking pictures of buildings, street signs, and even cars parked along the side of the street.  While on my walk I looked to the left and see a moment in time that I wanted to keep.  I setup the tripod and compose the shot.  With the birds chirping in the distance my camera contributes to their song with chirping of its own.