The Alpaca Is Biting My Camera!

It happened in slow motion (doesn't it always?) I was kneeling down, putting away some of my photo equipment and I noticed one of the alpacas inching closer to my camera. I should have stood up and done something, but I didn't.

I put away my light meter and cable release and thought, "that alpaca is getting too close to the camera."  Still, I hesitated and did nothing. I stowed away the focusing loupe and as I stood up, the alpaca actually bit my camera. Right there on the camera's monorail. Absurdly, I thought, "that camera must be hurting about now."

"Get outta here," I said. I gently pushed the alpaca away. No harm. I was just glad he didn't lick the lens.

It was a photo session of hesitation. Earlier, as I secured the 4 x 5 camera on the tripod, I thought about the composition possibilties in front of me. I could step inside the fence and make a couple of exposures of my subject, an alpaca farmer, surrounded by several alpacas. That might result in an interesting photograph. But, I hesitated. Why?

Perhaps it was age-related. The older I get, the more willing I am to be comfortable. There was another location right in front of the fence that could make a suitable photograph –– less manouvering of myself and the large camera.

Perhaps it was that I am a bit out of shape –– less sweat and effort involved in lifting the heavy camera/tripod through the fence gate.

Maybe I was afraid that the gentle alpacas would destroy my gear (ultimately, this came close to reality).

Could it be that I was in a hurry? No, there was no pressure of time.

In the end, I hesitated, but only slightly. The only option was to be be uncomfortable. It was necessary to take a very slight risk that could result in a better photograph.

I have always tried to be a bit unconventional with my photography. Creativity is getting uncomfortable.

Why do I use a 4 x 5 film camera format rather than digital on some photo shoots? As I have written and spoken about before, it's all about the experience. I enjoy getting my hands wet in a tray of chemicals in my darkroom and I enjoy practicing the traditions of my craft. It's not always easy. There are risks. But, I'm rewarded with creativity and more inspired results.

Are you too comfortable?

It's okay to hesitate, but take the risks.