Polaroid play

I found a fun download today. It creates an effect of a shot having been taken on one of those old polaroid snapshot cameras that then spit out the photo which developed fully over the next few minutes. You can save the shot anywhere along the development process which creates some interesting effects.




Also spent some time playing with a new program Nik's 'Silver efex Pro'. I may spend the bucks and order it as I am thinking more in terms of Black and White. I set up the bulk ink tank system today which is a step in that direction, as it is dedicated to a warm tone B&W only print. I am wishing that I had a higher quality printer to put the system on but I've got what I've got. It was an investment that I made just before the war in Lebanon in the summer of 06, so it goes on a relative older model epson printer. If it works well I may retrofit the old wide planten epson that I have down stairs.

This photo is one that was a bust in color and although I don't think this version is this shots last stop, I think I like the effect and may work on reproducing it in a group of shots from this same area - perhaps IR.

Its a new year. Not much new in this year to note however. Israel is engaged in its last free act of genocide in Gaza - boy they learned that lesson really well didn't they? It is shameful that the US does not speak out about this crime against humanity but Bush is too beholden and stupid to see how well he has been played.
But on a better note. I am just home from the beach where I spent 2 full weeks out of touch with any of this. Gratefully so, now that I am back and there appears to be trouble on every front.
I took my grandchildren - well the oldest two with me to the beach. I think they had a good time and I hope they will be able to join us again another time. Not much time for taking photographs what with making sure they were fed, warm and safe - I had forgotten that single parent thing. It is a lot of work for just one person, although they were very helpful.
I love a good sunset. I have sworn off trying to get a good sunset shot but every so often I try again thinking I can capture the sweep of color, the warmth and sense of peace that is the sunset. And then I remember why I swore off trying the capture the sunset.
Here is my most recent attempt.