Capturing Beauty

“I enjoy trying to capture some of the beauty around us, but the best reward is when my efforts cause a smile.”

About me

I am a 70 year old divorced male, and, in large part, a product of my age and time. From small town Ohio, a facility in math and science led to an engineering degree from a Big Ten university.

A first generation college grad, an international corporation paid me very generous sums to sit and think 8 to 10 hours a day. In short order a lack of regular challenges grew into boredom and I migrated to the new and wondrous world of sales and marketing. An ability to listen resulted in success and the opportunity to meet and learn from a world of bright and interesting people.

I am retired on disability. My coordination is mildly impaired. In my case it presents mainly in my speech and walk. The effects are controllable to a degree. They become most obvious when my concentration and energy level waiver. My speech becomes notably thicker and Ginger would no longer mistake me for Fred.

The lack of an occupation has allowed me to reinvigorate and old, old hobby. I think I was 12 when we moved into a house with a small, ramshackle darkroom in the basement. I discovered a new world of wonder. A recent first step into the world of digital photography with its inherent rapid feedback has help me sharpen some rusty skills.

I can’t paint. I can’t sculpt. I sure can’t sing and I am retired from dancing. I am unable to create beauty, but from time to time I am able to capture some of the beauty around us. I think it satisfies some frustrated creative instinct. I enjoy the process. I hope seeing my efforts grants you some small portion of the pleasure I gain in capturing it.

Thank you for your time and courtesy.

Joe Barr