• Episode 3 of Coffee with Jefferson Davis Cover

    Episode 3

    Welcome back to the fascinating world of photography and development in the latest episode of Coffee with Jefferson Davis. As we dive deep into the intricacies of film development, it’s evident that this segment is an essential guide for both enthusiasts and professionals in the field.

    In this third installment, I’ve focused on a game-changing developer known as 510pyro. Through an in-depth comparison, I highlight why 510pyro stands out amongst a sea of film developers, shedding light on its unique properties that make it superior. The discussion doesn’t just stop at comparisons, however; I delve into the technical how-tos of using 510pyro, providing valuable insight gleaned from personal experience and extensive experimentation.

    One of the compelling facets of 510pyro is its versatility. Whether you’re processing high-speed films or pushing your medium-format shots to their limits, 510pyro adapts beautifully, yielding results that are both consistent and impressively detailed. Its ability to enhance the grain structure and maximize acutance makes it an excellent choice for photographers seeking a distinctive look in their analog work.

    The conversation takes a slight detour into the realm of politics, tying in how cultural shifts and technological advancements are influencing the world of film photography. It’s an interesting sidebar that connects the dots between our creative passions and the larger societal context they exist within.

    Regrettably, this episode was out of sequence with the series due to a mishap on my part. Rest assured, this won’t be the norm moving forward. As we work to streamline the series, I’m thrilled to announce that future episodes will offer an audio-only option. This feature is a plus for those looking to save on bandwidth while still indulging in their passion for photography.

    And the excitement doesn’t stop there. For fans eager to dive deeper into photographic artistry, keep an eye out for the upcoming Issues of my magazine, Purblind Illumination. This publication is yet another avenue to explore the nuances of imagery and artistic expression.

    So, stay tuned and keep your subscription active to not miss out on any of these enriching discussions and future developments. Whether it’s through our podcast episodes or the pages of “Purblind Illumination”, the journey through the art of photography continues to both educate and inspire.

  • Industrial Lines
    Photography

    Industrial Line

    Reflecting on the photograph I captured of the former industrial railroad line, it resonates on multiple levels, both in terms of aesthetic and historic significance. The textures and leading lines don’t just converge to create a beautiful image; they tell the story of transformation and change.

    The Doodle Line‘s transformation into the Doodle Trail exemplifies a wider trend of repurposing old industrial spaces to fit contemporary needs. This concept of adaptive reuse not only preserves a slice of history but also breathes new life into areas that once hummed with the industrial activity of a bygone era.

    The photograph elegantly captures the dichotomy between the bygone era of cotton and paper mills—a time when these lines were the arteries pumping the lifeblood of Southern industry—and their present state, being overtaken by nature’s relentless advance. This is emblematic of economic shifts where the old is giving way to new realities, quite visibly with the mills morphing into modern apartments.

    The picture provides a commentary on the passage of time. The fact that the rails leading to the mill, now modernized into apartments, are slowly disappearing beneath grasses is a poetic representation of the relentless march of time and nature’s capacity for reclaiming. Yet, in the background, the mill stands as a haunting reminder of the past, bridging the historical divide.

    Photographs play a crucial role in documenting these transitions. They offer more than just a visual treat; they invite contemplation and open dialogues about our collective history and future. They remind us that while places may change their skin, their bones remain steeped in the stories and memories of those who remember them as they once were.

    The use of the Lerouge 135L to capture this image expands the narrative by giving a wider perspective. Not only does it allow more of the rustic scene to be included, but it also provides space within the frame to consider the old alongside the new, the industrial heritage juxtaposed with its future.

    There is also a metaphorical aspect to consider—the rusting rails leading to repurposed mills serve as a symbol. They represent the inevitable evolution of industry and society, but also the way we lay tracks for the future while never really erasing the routes of our past. In essence, this photograph isn’t just a static image; it is a visual story unfolding, rich with texture, depth, and meaning.

  • Photography

    Purblind Illumination

    As many of you know, the revelation of my impending vision loss has sparked a sense of urgency and a poignant mission within me: to document the world through my lenses while time allows. The launch of “Purblind Illumination,” a title that playfully embraces the oxymoron of seeking light amidst gathering darkness, is more than a project. It’s a journey—a visual odyssey that I intend to share bi-monthly, if not with greater frequency.

    Photography has been a beloved craft that has participated in the ebb and flow of my life since I first cradled a camera. The weight of a Pentax, the click of a Minolta shutter—these are the sensations that have charted the course of my passion. With decades of film and digital imagery behind me, my love for photography has never waned. It endures as the consistent, silent witness to my life’s narrative. There’s an undeniable truth I’m facing: the day is approaching when my eyes will no longer bear witness to the crisp edges and contrast of the world. But until then, I am committed to capturing as much as I can, to embrace, through my craft, every remaining photon that graces my vision.

    “Purblind Illumination” is not only a testament to an enduring artistic spirit but also a tangible means to sustain my ardor for film. The magazines and books, rich with the past and vibrant with the present, are emblematic cords tying me to the world of visual storytelling, supporting the transition to a landscape of different sensations. The debut issue, modestly priced at $10, is an invitation for patrons to partake in this voyage—each purchase a beacon that not only illuminates the path for future works but also lights a candle of solidarity in our collective journey through the arts.

    At the heart of this endeavor, and the very soul of my support network, stands my incredible wife. Her patience and understanding, as endless as space, have given me both the time and space to delve into the thralls of photography and to crystallize these moments into magazines and books. Without her, the narrative of “Purblind Illumination” would remain untold. Her role in this journey cannot be overstated; she is not just the unsung hero behind the scenes but the very foundation upon which this creative edifice stands. To her, I extend my deepest gratitude. I love you, Deana.

    To the community: Your support and enthusiasm provide the resolve to push past the encroaching shadows. Each snap of the shutter is a tribute to your encouragement—a melodic verse in our shared symphony of life and art. Thank you for joining me on this expedition, as we illuminate the canvas of the world together, one frame at a time.

  • Uncategorized

    Yashica Electro 35 GSN

    For years, I have heard praises about the Yashica Electro 35! People have raved about its build quality and lens performance. About two months ago, my wife and I were speaking with a local estate agent about cameras. In the back room, he had two old cameras. He handed me two dusty camera cases with “Yashica” engraved on them. The first one was a Yashica EZ-Matic 126 Film Camera. While it was a good little camera, it wasn’t exactly what I had hoped for. However, the second case held the infamous and highly desirable Electro 35 GSN! Needless to say, I was ecstatic!

    I brought them home, cleaned them up, and loaded a roll of Arista Edu Ultra 100 film into one of them along with fresh batteries. It took me a couple of weeks to thoroughly test it out. Every photograph came out perfectly exposed and tack sharp. The viewfinder was also very bright and clear. I have absolutely no complaints about this camera. It’s versatile enough for street photography or capturing those spontaneous family moments.

    I enjoyed my time with this camera, but rangefinder shooting isn’t my preferred style. I already have another rangefinder camera, a Zeiss Ikon, which I will keep. However, this Yashica Electro 35 GSN is up for sale. It delivers sharp images and consistently accurate exposures. It even comes with the original lens cap and case! Take a look at some of the photographs I captured with it below.

    Let me know if you need more information or if there’s anything else I can assist you with.