My grandfather, a most impressive amateur photographer with an early color darkroom in his home, loved to photograph the camellias that he and my grandmother propagated, nurtured, and entered into camellia shows. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to get to know my grandfather, but I always enjoyed his exquisite photographs hanging about my grandmother’s home. Because of him, I am going to claim that a love for that blossom and photographing it must be in my DNA. Adding to the equation, my father is one of those special souls who can look at a plant and tell you when it needs water or fertilizer. Not only is he the one who has long nurtured me, he’s also the caretaker of many gorgeous camellias. In honor of these two men, both called “Papa,” I have created a series of camellia photos. After all, their unique ability with camellias produced much more than beautiful blooms.
With gift-giving season upon us, it is fun to consider traditions in passing things down to young generations. Here you can click for a preview of the article about that very thing, A Gun to Grow Into, for which I did the photography and my talented wordsmith husband, Miles DeMott, wrote the text. For those who have been on this journey with me for a while, you might recognize some familiar faces in the article. As a gift to yourself, pick up a copy of Covey Rise Magazine and experience the beautiful publication that invites you to savor the words and images. You don’t want to miss the cover article Miles wrote about hunting up Tom Brokaw. If you are looking for a great gift idea, a subscription to Covey Rise might be just the thing as more great stories are to come in 2016.
If your holiday travels take you into Georgia, you have time left to check out my Earth, Pine and Fire exhibit that is still hanging at the Thomasville Center for the Arts Studio 209. It looks quite fabulous in their wonderful space, and again I say thank you to the show sponsor, Tall Timbers, as well as the amazing hard working team for the Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival.
Seen an image of mine that speaks to you? It’s not too late to place a custom holiday order! Thanks for being with me on this Camera Journey and for sending me your photos when you too pause to see differently and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us.