Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Songs of long ago...

Out in the desert this weekend, I took some pictures with real film and a real camera, my much-loved Cannon AE-1 manual SLR that's nearly as old as I am. These photographs are the result:


I couldn't be happier with the 'old Arabia' look of these (the scratches are just how they came out of the camera, worked well for my purposes) and wanted to share them with you.

15 comments:

Cindy Napier said...

Amazing pictures! You're a talented photographer!

Marc said...

They are truly amazing!!

How long will you live in Dubai?

Marc

*Paula* said...

Woah! fabulous Natalie! Stunning photographs - they really capture the Arabian feel

Mumsey said...

Beautiful tones. Loved them.

Jean said...

Wow! Great photographs. And you actually found a falconer. I'm delighted.

Joanna said...

Fantastico! Always nice to see good photography!

Friendly Neighborhood Librarian said...

Wow!
They're great photos!
Did you use B&W film or have them printed different from color?
I like the "peace signs" on the camels!

Anonymous said...

I was told about your blog by Karen. Incredible pics. We are Also in Dubai. My question is "where did you go to see falcons fly?"

AKBrady said...

Gus would be proud! You go.

Nathalie said...

WOW! I love the feel of these photos!!!!! What type of film did you use to get that vintage look?! I love it and it makes me want to dust my old SLR too!

Natalie said...

Thanks everybody!

Q&A: Marc, our 2 years in Dubai looks like they're almost up. The contract is officially fulfilled in July. We have options to extend, and have enrolled the kids in school here for next year just in case, but I think we're ready to move on, and there's probably another adventure...or coming home...soon for us.

Photography Q: I used regular film (and I feel almost sheepish about this last bit, there's nothing magical about it), then had the photos put onto a CD, after which I converted them to sepia and tweaked the exposures a little in a bare bones photo program. (Seriously, it's so bare bones there's not "clone" tool!) I always feel like I can't take much credit for photography...I have lots of awesome subjects..I'm just pointing the lens. :)

Uncle Gus is the one who helped me choose the SLR, showed me how to use it, and made sure I always have the lens strap around my neck. Every time I use it, I think of him. He was an incredible man.

Second "behind the scenes" sheepish confession: all these photos (and yes, I LOVED the peace sign camels!) were taken at the desert resort Bab al Shams and my main job was to edit out the other tourists in the viewfinder. If you want an amazing experience and raptor photos I strongly recommend the Birds of Prey Show out by Mirdif, go soon before they close!

Anonymous said...

Looks like they came out of National Geographic- will be a good contender !
S

April said...

These pictures are outstanding Natalie! I have been searching for some shots like these to hang in our home. Would you mind??

Natalie said...

More thanks to everyone!

April, my photos would be honored to hang with y'all. Would you like me to send you the high resolution files?

April said...

Yes, that would be wonderful! I have just the place for 3 of them - above the Indian bench we got in Sharjah. I am excited - thanks for your help!! :)