I never miss the opportunity to capture an image of "rust." Old rusty machinery, farm equipment or trucks (and autos), or anything else shouting with history always catches my eye! I love the patina, texture and flow of colors.
The end of a long service life!
Anytime possible, I shoot at the golden hour (just after sunrise and just before sunset), even it if means backtracking. This is the time of magical light, for me.
My camera is a Nikon D850 and the lens was 85mm, but no tripod nor flash.
I have often flirted with the possibility of creating a volume entitled, "Vanishing America." Because of my interest in history and Americana, and the knowledge that much of it is disappearing in a flurry of modernization, I am drawn to the unfolding stories, both real and imagined.
Because I am a classically trained painter, I lean toward a "paintery" style of processing. Through Adobe PhotoShop, I enhance tonal and color values to give my photographs that timeless, classical look.
On the road, I travel with a minimal kit, including my camera, a set of three lens ( 35mm, 200-500mm and 85mm). I also keep a tripod and a drone on hand.
It's all about composition and light! Don't settle for the inadequate. Wait for it, or augment the lighting with artificial or lighting modifiers when necessary. We are always looking for that perfect lighting moment which can be frozen in time. Love what you do, do what you love!
I had driven by these trucks in a farmer's field many times before actually taking the time to add them to my photographic collection. Photographic opportunities are everywhere if you just look!
Washington and Oregon State ghost towns are ripe with beautiful rust!
Eastern Washington State is another rewarding area with many abandoned relics.
Perspective can add an interesting optical illusion. These photographs were taken with my 8mm, wide angle cell phone. Sometimes, I will use my cell phone even when I have my high-end digital camera available... just for effect.
I have my own collection of autos and other equipment to photograph, as well.
By owning your own vehicle, you can easily stage your own photoshoot with live models...
Here we are using our 1926 Model T Ford again.
Another of our own vehicles (1972 Toyota FJ40) in a "Steampunk" shoot with models.
Out 1935 Chevy Firetruck showed up in many of my steampunk photoshoots.
