Fast Forward ~ Rewind

The year is 2020.  Someone comments: “I never see you without a camera”… I pull out my iPhone. Inevitably, a conversation ensues about how the iPhone has replaced the traditional camera (and photographer in some cases).  The same day as the comment, I had just read the “50th Class Reunion of William Penn High School” letter. It was written for my mother-in-law Helen’s class of 1937, in 1987, just as my photo career was gaining momentum.  Film, large format, medium format, 35 mm, darkrooms.. that’s so last century! Digital capture with a device I can easily fit in my back pocket, is where we are today.


Change is necessary, it’s exciting, and it is inevitable.  But how come it always seems life was better looking back? Maybe we should update this letter for my 50th reunion?  Or maybe not. Though the milestones, culture and gadgets have changed, it’s the 70’s all over again. And no, I’m not getting rid of my traditional cameras, yet.