Available Light

Anticipating my new lens makes me think about legendary Observer photographer Jane Bown. I first became acquainted with her work about 10 years ago when Lovely Mrs Burt gave me a book of her work. At the time I was a lone female photographer all at sea with a pride of male 'togs. It was a good empowering present. Jane Bown is indeed a legend. She doesnt bother with the hubris of technology or speciality papers. She cares about the shot foremost and works exclusively with available light. In her book she talks about dragging some of the most famous faces of the last century to the nearest window to grab the dying embers of a day. Simple, proper photography. Since 1949. Here's some lovely examples if you aren't familiar. Beautifully observed. Clumsy composition in Circus Performers for example, but the light is exquisite. I hope to be still chasing the light when I'm 81.