I am constantly striving for simplification and a heightened awareness of the subject I am exploring. The two have an inverse relationship, the less gear I have the greater my awareness and appreciation of the subject. This in part explains my philosophy behind my choice of camera, its a simple light tight "box" with no electronics, yet is capable of yielding exceptional images. I prefer my photographs as found, taking pleasure in finding naturally occurring compositions as part of a heightened personal experience. Arrangements and excessive manipulations are the antithesis to this. They are, by their very nature, imposing a vision rather than being open to a discovery of a different asthetic.

The gaining of awareness is the  most significant creative factor. Good photography requires an awareness, an understanding and a sensitivity towards the subject. My aim is to discover a vision through awareness.  Building awareness requires your own inner voyage of discovery, developing your curiosity, and to be constantly open to the unexpected. It is a lifelong process, and within Nature, I find this process of awareness infinite.

Alex Bond © Copyright 2010, modified from the 2000 Horizon Calendar essay, Stormlight Publishing.