If you’ve been a regular visitor to Admiring Light, you’ve probably noticed (and perhaps even been frustrated by) the lack of new articles over the past few months. I apologize for that. I’ve been absolutely swamped at my full-time job and have had less time than I’ve ever had for shooting and writing. I hope to review several new lenses (the Sony Zeiss and Rokinon 50mm f/1.4s will both make their way in soon, as will the Fuji X-T2 and, a bit later, the 23mm f/2.) Then there’s the slew of new announcements that will come at Photokina. Unfortunately, I won’t be making it to Photokina to cover the show this year: airfare was just prohibitively expensive this time around (roughly double what it cost me to go in 2014). I do hope to make it out to PhotoPlus Expo a few weeks later, however.
The hardest thing for me, however, has been the lack of time to actually go out and shoot. I had a quick trip to Pittsburgh with family, which afforded me with some opportunities, and this past weekend I forced myself to go out and shoot on a Sunday morning. I’m writing this simply as a reminder to those who get caught up in the rat race of daily life: it’s important to eventually find time to go out and shoot. During the busiest time this summer, I had developed a bit of apathy about photography in general. I was behind on writing articles; I hadn’t shot in weeks, and it was oppressively hot and humid for a stretch. I hate being out in the heat, and this looming pressure was mounting that seemed even harder to overcome due to the time off. Going out this past weekend, rather than something to overcome, ended up completely pulling me out of the funk. It can sometimes only take a small spark to rekindle the passion. Simply forcing myself to make the time to shoot was all that was needed, and the rest has taken care of itself. I’ll begin testing a new lens next week and should have the review posted shortly thereafter, with a string of reviews lined up. When I get my time with the X-T2, I also plan on writing a Fuji RAW conversion article, comparing the major RAW converters for landscape use on X-Trans. Stay tuned!
As an aside, I thought I’d share a few of the images I did manage to take over the past month or so. Enjoy, and go shoot!
Just wanted to say thank you for the great (and free!) content you share with us. You don’t owe us anything, so keep doing this as a source of enjoyment, and not because of any sense of obligation. I’d rather quality over frequency and that’s why I subscribe to your rss feed. Btw, very interested in your thoughts on .RAF processing. Just as much, I am dreading your thoughts on the X-T2 because I can’t afford to upgrade from my X-T1 😉
I’ll second that – both the comment sentiments, and those in the article regarding how easy it is to get swamped with work consuming all descretionary time. Happy to read any of the high quality content you produce – on your schedule!
(fellow EE w/Columbus/OSU roots)
Let me echo what the previous two commenters have already said – thank you Jordan for continuing to share your reviews, your insight and the beautiful images you produce. I’m glad to know there is more great content planned for the site, but even happier to hear that you’re enjoying your photography as much as ever. New products, new ideas, and Autumn colours to look forward to – exciting times!
I understand the feeling of overwhelm and glad to learn that it only took a gentle push to rekindle the passion. Also thx for the shot of the Cathedral of Learning – my daughter is at Pitt and even after almost 4 years (!) I still miss her lots, so it was sweet to see this familiar landmark. And a great shot, to boot!
As others have already stated, I greatly appreciate your generous spirit and inspiring images Jordan! I am glad you have rekindled that creative spark. Sometimes the worst thing is failing to have those apathetic lulls in life, as they are often the wellspring for deeper insights and joy!
I’ll also echo what the other commenters have stated. While I haven’t commented very many times on your sight, I greatly appreciate your attention to detail in your reviews. As a fellow dad of young ones, I particularly enjoy your practical tests of capturing shots of kids. You’ve helped me to make smart purchases to build out my gear with lenses that have allowed be to capture priceless moments of my kids as they grow up. Keep up the good work, and I hope you’re able to stay inspired to keep shooting.
Forget the articles just go shoot more 🙂
I don’t always share your views on equipment but I always love your photos
I have been checking and wondering what you have been up to… i too go through cycles of photography and other hobbies when I do one and not other.
Keep up the good work, i do love your reviews and a few other websites such as phoblogger and Steve huff.
Thanks for the time you dedicate to informing other (us) about the craft. You have no idea how much difference you make in people who are learning. Hope you rest and feel great about your craft!