A year of absence

[Kris_Smith (Kristen M Smith)]

Image(s)

#1 Pilgrimage

#2 Rushes on

#3 Winter Quarters

#4 Loon family

#5 River Jewelwing

#6 Satin sheets

#7 The picture of confidence

#8 Desitny

#9 Open secret

#10 Lowdown

Image Description

For the first time since 2009 or so, I have empty folders for whole months of the year. Back then it was rare I didn’t find something to shoot every week, sometimes every day. That’s kind of how I am with everything - I jump in whole - full fathom five. And usually it’s good, but it leads to burn out and apathy. That’s pretty much what hit me last year. I hardly shot and when I did, could barely bring myself to even look at, much less process, the photos I had.

Fall passed by with hardly a shot taken. Fog came and went and I stayed indoors. It felt, and largely still feels, meaningless. Like why bother…what does this add to the universe? Also that I wasn’t doing or seeing anything new or different and I just didn’t feel like trying to change that. At this point I have no idea how long this malaise will last, but eventually I’m sure I’ll feel the urge, the craving to go back out and retain the energy and enthusiasm for the post work. The wonder of nature is the end to itself and the reward. I know that, but just have no energy for it. Like a fallow field newly planted, I’m sure the life force will spring up when I’m ready.

I’m aware of the various remedies for this situation like trying entirely new types of photography or setting myself some kind of challenge, but those don’t appeal. I’m long out of school and have no desire for deadlines or homework. I’m not whining and I’m not completely shut off from creativity as I’ve been focusing on my jewelry business and the constant learning that goes with silversmithing. It’s been fun if a bit scary with the rapidly rising cost of precious metals. And of course I have to shoot and edit all the pieces that end up in my online shop.

Shutting up now. Here are the photos that spoke to me when taking them and when working with the files afterward. Some you’ve seen, but some have been languishing on my hard drive.

These first two were taken in February and were part of a deliberate effort to find the scenes that only winter offers. Also it was a deliberate exercise in trying to see beyond my usual subjects or usual compositions. I may try this again. The porcupine was just a bonus.

The others were from various hiking or kayaking outings and many are from the yard as subjects presented themselves.

Feedback Requests

Nothing really, but have at any suggestions.

Pertinent Technical Details

All taken with my Lumix G9 M2 and a variety of system lenses. Mostly handheld and sometimes braced. The loons, tiny turtle and green damselfly were taken in my kayak. The frog and the yellow crab spider are stacks.

[Cathy_Proenza]

Wow! Nice work for an off year! I really like #2 Rushes on (fox tracks maybe?), the “cuddly” porcupine, and your amazing insect friends. I’m also impressed that you are brave enough to take your camera in your kayak! I just use my cell phone when I’m in my pack raft or canoe.

I haven’t been at it as long as you, but I took very few photos last year until I finally retired and went on a big road trip. Sometimes life gets in the way. For me anyhow, I only have so much energy and creative capacity. Photography drops out when I spend those resources on other things. Maybe you can have fun with some of your jewelry photos as Everything Else shots?

[Steve_Kennedy]

Hi Kris! Your “Year of Absence” photos are all very nice. I especially like #9. I totally relate to your story. I’ve been struggling with the same issue. For the last few years I haven’t picked up my camera nearly as often as years past, especially this year. Like you, my creative energies have gone to other pursuits. For me it’s building furniture.

I hope we both get some of that mojo back for 2026. Happy Holidays!

[Dennis_Plank]

For a do-nothing year, you certainly managed some fine images, Kris. All of these are excellent, with my favorites being the second snow image and every one of the macro/close-up images.

[Mark_Seaver]

Kris, you have a number of excellent views here. I especially like the tree frog and the mating damselflies. The sharpness through on those damsels is special (and hard to get).

[Bill_Fach]

Kris: You know I like all of these, especially what you get from your kayak. I’ve been blessed with a plethora of subjects right outside my front and back doors so there is always something different to shoot which helps me keep my enthusiasm up. Learning new processing skills has helped and I’m anticipating the arrival of Sony’s new 100mm macro to replace my venerable 200mm.

Having serious other interests is a big help too and it sounds like the stuff you’re doing with jewelry is fascinating and challenging. Diversity of pursuits and a love of continuing learning keeps me engaged and I suspect it does the same for you. One thing I have done when I find my mojo fading is to look at other genres that I don’t do much with. A trip through Avian, Wildlife and Everything Else usually reignites me. You’ll come back to photography with renewed vigor but I’m not sure there’s any way to force it. Wishing you great subjects in 2026, renewed enthusiasm and great light. >=))>

[Ola_Jovall]

Kris, sorry to hear that you have not been out photographing that much this year. Despite that, you have been able to put together a great set of images! My favourite is Satin sheets.

[Glenys_Passier]

I love what you have posted Kris! I am envious of your snow scenes. Your insects are top notch little critters and all are processed beautifully.

Kris, I thought I was reading my own story. I have joined a camera club to try to re-ignite, but found (I always knew) I am not a peoples’ person. I won’t be rejoining the camera club this year. I have a good friend who makes me go on “bird” outings to weird places to shoot birds, which I really enjoy. She is a top notch photographer and puts her images to good use with “animal/wildlife rescues” and enviromental agencies. We laugh a lot, because we are both old (not had it!) and clumsy. I wonder if there is a friend to help you get out.

I hope we get to see many images flow in from you 2026!

[John_Williams]

@Kris_Smith

burn out and apathy

Here’s to more burn out and apathy, because those are amazing images Kris!

Seriously though, I wax and wane enough to empathize. I’ve come to accept it’s part of the journey for me, and don’t stress too much when the spirit leads me away. In my opinion, that ability is one of the single best reasons to be an amateur instead of trying to be a professional. So far, I’ve found it’s temporary and really enjoy the periods when I return to photography.

[Bonnie_Lampley]

These are all wonderful, Kris. You are clearly a skilled photographer, to get all these very detailed shots with such clarity and lovely compositions. I feel your photographic doldrums myself - your description is spot on. If I had to pick a favorite of this set, it would be Silk Sheets.

[Kris_Smith (Kristen M Smith)]

Thank you all for you kind words, commiseration & understanding. It’s been a rough couple of years for my photography and enjoyment of nature.

@Cathy_Proenza - I have added I think one jewelry photo to that category, but a lot of what I do is very similar in terms of the final image and I wouldn’t want anyone to get the idea that I’m trying to sell to you guys.

@Steve_Kennedy - furniture making! Oooh cool. If you have a website please share (PM me if that’s more comfortable for you). And yeah, I hope our mojos make an appearance soon.

@Dennis_Plank - if we get a fresh dump of snow, I’ll head out and see what I can find. Macro always enchants me though, so hopefully that won’t dwindle.

@Mark_Seaver - thanks much - those damsels were on the dock so I could get right up to them while lying on my stomach. Oh the things we do!

@Bill_Fach - oooh a new macro lens! That’s exciting. I’ve been thinking of adding a 90mm to my kit as well, but so far haven’t pulled the trigger. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it if it comes your way.

@Ola_Jovall - thanks much - that little spring peeper rested in that flower basically all day and I was lucky enough to see it off when it moved in the late afternoon. I love those tiny frogs.

@Glenys_Passier - funny how things wax and wane with us and I do wish there was a photographer near me like you have. I did have one when I was in NH, but even then she stopped shooting and we stopped hanging out. Oh well. I do have someone that’s a couple hours away who just retired, so maybe we can do some more together in 2026. Thanks for the motivation!

@John_Williams - acceptance is key with this feeling, agreed. I can’t force my enthusiasm and certainly not my creativity. Each has to well up of its own accord. And yeah, thank goodness this isn’t my job! As a budding silversmith, that sort of is my job now, but it’s mine and I dictate the terms, so no pressure but that I apply myself.

@Bonnie_Lampley - skilled? Well maybe, thanks for the vote of confidence though. And yeah, that sweet little frog was a joy for me in my yard this past year and slightly made up for the red of beak and talon part that I sadly witnessed also.

Phew! I think I got all of you. Thanks again for your support and lovely words.

[Larry_Greenbaum]

Kris, What a wonderful showcase of images. They are all amazing , artistic with simple compositions. “Winter Quarters” dazzles. Is this a porcupine? The first two snow images demonstrate how the well seen commonplace becomes art. Thanks for sharing all of these.

[Kris_Smith (Kristen M Smith)]

Thanks @Larry_Greenbaum - that is indeed a porcupine - the closest I’ve been to an adult and it was a nice experience for me at least. The poor thing was pretty scared and mostly turned to give me the business end while hiding in its den. That was the time it braved a look at me.

[Diane_Miller]

I missed this earlier, too busy with holiday stuff. All are exceptional and quality makes up for lack of quantity. I do hope you will find reason to grab a camera occasionally, but whatever creativity you find is equally good for the soul!

All the best for the New Year!

[Larry_Greenbaum]

And, you nailed a wonderful image. Hope the porcupine had a good nap.

[Kris_Smith (Kristen M Smith)]

I hope it did, too, eventually. I heard it squeaking and chattering its teeth, which are both signs of nervous agitation, so I let it be pretty quickly. Unfortunately the den is right on the trail which is an out and back, so I had to pass by it again. Probably no one sees it if it uses the den in summer, but in winter it’s fairly obvious to someone paying attention. Luckily though, the segment is one of the lowest traffic ones on the Ice Age trail which is gaining in popularity with through and segment hikers.