“I have just have to photograph this!” said Julien, as we explored the natural beauty we were finding on our walk in the river. “That’s the sign of a real photographer,” I replied. Click went the camera and a smile crossed the face of my 8 year-old grandson. I was smiling too. I love to be out with my photo buddy.
It’s been a while since we went out together with our cameras. Yesterday started out as a walk in the cool forest on a hot day, just the two of us. We found a tire swing in the woods, lots of plants to photograph but mostly just enjoyed our exploration together.
Julien’s signature first shot of the day is his feet. Now we’re ready to go! (c) Julien DucklowWhat could be better than finding a tire swing in the woods?Julien found a natural seat as he contemplated his shot of the old guy on the swing.We came to a river that we’ve visited many times before. There was a lot to see and photograph on, in and around the water’s edge.After exploring the bugs, frogs and stones on the edge of the creek, we had an idea. Let’s walk up the river! OK!Everywhere we looked, there was interesting things to notice, like the colour of the water, the ripples and currents and, in the pools, the many minnows swimming. Some parts were shallow like this, some parts I had to carry Julien.A few times we had to crawl over and under fallen logs. (c) Julien DucklowWhen we reached the trail that would take us home, we met some people with two dogs. This lab happily played in the water. When he wagged his tail, it was like he had a squirt gun attached! (c) Julien DucklowA leaf in the river looks like it is sprinkled with icing sugar. We didn’t taste it though! (c) Julien DucklowWhile walking home through the forest, Julien played with the camera to create impressionistic images. Wow! Eight years old! (c) Julien DucklowPlaying with light and motion in the forest. (c) Julien DucklowWe called this the Hug Tree. (c) Julien Ducklow
When we got home, we processed the photos and made a slide show for the whole family to see. It was such a hit that three people in the family requested prints of some of his images. Awesome! There were smiles all around.
I’m wanting to do the same thing with my grand daughter.
She’s almost 5. What camera do you suggest. I didn’t really want her to use my Fuji’s.
Thanks
Kim
Hi Kim,
I have an old Canon G10 p&s camera. It’s great for him because it has a zoom, macro mode and he’s learning about some of the exposure settings. We keep it st hone but it’s his camera when he’s here.
Dennis,
You have not only a best photo buddy, but also a young protégé!!! Maybe it’s in the genes? , but I suspect it has a lot to do with an excellent ,and experienced teacher!!!
Young Julien has a great eye and has already captured images I envy!!! Love that “motion” result…any secrets we amateurs can learn?
thanks Dennis for sending this delightful blog -it feeds my appetite for more photography!!!
Happy Trails to you -with your lucky grandson! Laura’s sister, Tini
Hi Tini, So glad to hear from you. Thanks for all your kind words. The secret to creating those motion shots is to move the camera while the shutter is open. Be warned, you’ll have some keepers for sure but also lots of throw-aways. My best to you!
I am saying something nice cause I have to to get aprroval.
💩👍🤫🙃😉😌
You’re a goof, Mr. Piginns!