A really lovely piece of writing. I loved Nan's words deeply and was so present with the words here that I really didn't 'see' your photos on my first pass. ( They are beautiful)
I often experience moments when out with my camera where I am so genuinely in a deeper connection with place that I forget I have a camera. At those times it almost feels like taking a picture is breaking something. Your piece brought that feeling back to me. Reverance perhaps.
Thank you Paul. Visiting New Zealand really revealed to me the importance of that connection to country in finding something to capture in the landscape. I love that word reverance - I was up in my favourite place in the mountains last week after a long, hot summer (which will be my next post) and that is exactly the right word.
Beautifully written James with some stunning images, I am very much in the school of developing that connection to a place, returning again and again so this resonated. The Living Mountain is one of my all time favourite nature books there's so much wisdom in Nan Shepherd's writing.
I like it, Arnfinn. Tourism can have varying levels of depth, as one explores new places, but the relationship is never the same as that which emerges from repeated visits.
First, I have to say that these photos are incredible! I was particularly struck by the first one with the mountain and low clouds.
Your insight here is really valuable! The pros and cons of returning to the familiar vs exploring the new are a constant struggle. Up to now I’ve leaned towards exploring, but logistical limitations may have me revisiting places I’ve been in the future.
Thanks Erik. That mountain is Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest. I climbed to Sealy Tran (600m elevation gain or 2,200 steps apparently) twice in 12 hours to get that view! The headlamp got a workout walking down then back up in the dark.
I also do both - this summer has been one of exploring the new; New Zealand and Tasmania (posts to come). But photographically, I find exploring the familiar landscapes are far more fulfilling.
I really enjoyed your post, James - both the photographs and learning more about Nan Shepherd. You’ve convinced me to buy a copy of The Living Mountain - thank you for the recommendation. The idea of establishing a deep relationship with a place resonates strongly with me, and I personally enjoy photography rooted in connection over superficial “beauty shots” captured as a tourist.
One of Nan's key points is that she was always seeing something new, no matter how many times she visited the same place. I have certainly found that to be true - it's about depth over breadth.
An excellent article, James, with beautiful photographs. Although I'd heard of Nan Shepherd, I hadn't really looked into her work - something I feel I should put right. Thank you for sharing.
A really lovely piece of writing. I loved Nan's words deeply and was so present with the words here that I really didn't 'see' your photos on my first pass. ( They are beautiful)
I often experience moments when out with my camera where I am so genuinely in a deeper connection with place that I forget I have a camera. At those times it almost feels like taking a picture is breaking something. Your piece brought that feeling back to me. Reverance perhaps.
Thank you Paul. Visiting New Zealand really revealed to me the importance of that connection to country in finding something to capture in the landscape. I love that word reverance - I was up in my favourite place in the mountains last week after a long, hot summer (which will be my next post) and that is exactly the right word.
I look forward to reading that James.
Beautifully written James with some stunning images, I am very much in the school of developing that connection to a place, returning again and again so this resonated. The Living Mountain is one of my all time favourite nature books there's so much wisdom in Nan Shepherd's writing.
Thank you Lin. I have now read the book several times over, and I find something new each time - kind of like exploring a favourite forest!
Stunning images! Wonderful writing!
Thank you Manuela
Interesting. I publish my posts from places I do not know well, under the heading "The tourist gaze".
I like it, Arnfinn. Tourism can have varying levels of depth, as one explores new places, but the relationship is never the same as that which emerges from repeated visits.
First, I have to say that these photos are incredible! I was particularly struck by the first one with the mountain and low clouds.
Your insight here is really valuable! The pros and cons of returning to the familiar vs exploring the new are a constant struggle. Up to now I’ve leaned towards exploring, but logistical limitations may have me revisiting places I’ve been in the future.
Thanks Erik. That mountain is Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest. I climbed to Sealy Tran (600m elevation gain or 2,200 steps apparently) twice in 12 hours to get that view! The headlamp got a workout walking down then back up in the dark.
I also do both - this summer has been one of exploring the new; New Zealand and Tasmania (posts to come). But photographically, I find exploring the familiar landscapes are far more fulfilling.
I really enjoyed your post, James - both the photographs and learning more about Nan Shepherd. You’ve convinced me to buy a copy of The Living Mountain - thank you for the recommendation. The idea of establishing a deep relationship with a place resonates strongly with me, and I personally enjoy photography rooted in connection over superficial “beauty shots” captured as a tourist.
I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did Todd.
One of Nan's key points is that she was always seeing something new, no matter how many times she visited the same place. I have certainly found that to be true - it's about depth over breadth.
An excellent article, James, with beautiful photographs. Although I'd heard of Nan Shepherd, I hadn't really looked into her work - something I feel I should put right. Thank you for sharing.
You won't regret it Ralph, it's a great book. Thank you.
Brilliant work. Love the South Island. Awesome place to live and photograph. 👍
I could see myself living there James. In the meantime, I'll definitely be back to visit. Thanks
😁
Fantastic images James. Gorgeous!!
Thank you Shital - a lot of fun was had making them.
Beautiful B&W photos!!
Thank you Sheryl - I am enjoying B&W at the moment!
How fun! I used to play with it when I still had my 35mm