Practising being scared: analog photo session with Marie
I was sitting gratefully in the willow shade by the river yesterday, when I remembered something Marie said that really struck me. She told me that despite swimming outside most days, in all seasons, for a number of years now, she still feels scared every time. Every time! We talked about the way practising being afraid and then being ok, surviving, can bring us a lot.
I have heard people talk about the benefits of cold water immersion in this light: how good it is to safely practise transitioning between states, allowing our nervous system to adjust, dealing with change.
Since getting to know Marie I have thought of her as a brave and gentle yet powerful force. A water spirit!
She is curious and creative.
I am grateful to her for the reminder to examine the truth of the stories we tell ourselves and that what is meant for us will flow. Perhaps we can be thankful for the information and redirection rejection brings us.
I am also grateful for her bringing this flask of coffee to share. It was decaf (sensitive babes) and she had added cardamon pods and maple syrup, which was so lovely. We looked out across the water and at the trees, noticing them starting to turn and how the pond will change colour too with all its reflections.
When we used to work together at Radiance, Marie would offer me hot coffee. It always made me smile, cause mmmmm yes please but also because of the invariable inclusion of the “hot” part when she asked.
I was inspired by Marie’s bold plans for her ceramic work and am always excited to see how her care and attention to detail will ripple out.
Technical Details
Camera: Canon EOS 1000F
a present from my aunt & uncle, my trusty companion for years already
Lens: Tamron SP 34-135mm, F/3.5-5.6, aspherical zoom
Film: Kodak Porta 800 35mm, 36 exp.
Dev & Scan: Photo Express, Hull
Interested in an analog photo session? The free slots I opened up have been booked now, but I have decided to offer some at a reduced, introductory rate. Find out more here or send me an email or Instagram DM with any queries.
