Subscription Lists
10 Minutes Peace
by Susan McGrath
I love the photographs of Ansel Adams. (Probably the greatest landscape photographer ever.)
The contrast of the black and white is crisp and clean and allows the subject to be seen in every detail.
Having some knowledge of photography, I know this requires the photographer to understand light, the mechanics and chemistry of the camera and film (Especially in Adams' case, as most of his famous pictures were taken over a half century ago with large format film.), and the ability to frame the subject in a way that captures the necessary details and excludes the distractions.
I have not yet mastered all these techniques, but I continue to strive!
Many people don't like black and white photography. I understand it's not for every occasion, but some things actually can be seen better in black and white. Do you know what I mean? It's like taking away the color allows you to really see the subject in its pure form.
Now, as I said, I love Adams' work but there are times when you want some color in your scrapbook -- Christmas morning, fields of wildflowers, balloons at the park. But the black and white speaks to me.
When I was taught darkroom techniques, one of the first things I learned about printing a picture in black and white is that there must be contrast. The contrast is achieved by revealing true black and true white in the photo. Those extremes must be present for the full spectrum of grays in between to make the picture come to life.
Sometimes difficult situations are referred to as "not being black and white". Maybe they just haven't been properly developed.
God gives us pure black and white in the form of his Word, and the words in it help us shape our lives. Those things that seem to be shades of gray can be brought into focus with prayer and patience.
Just like the black and white photographs I have come to love as they become familiar through study and time, God's Word will become clearer and dearer as we come to understand more and love Him more because of our understanding.
"Now we see but a poor reflection in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am known." -- 1 Corinthians 13:12
Rate it:
a recovering journalist trying to encourage others and glorify God through writing;
living the small-town life with husband Tim and sons Lincoln, 12, and Sawyer, 6;
completing a few put-off writing projects while using chocolate for therapy.
Receive the newest devotional each week in your inbox by joining the "10 Minutes Peace" subscription list. Enter your email address below, click "Go!" and we will send you a confirmation email. Follow the instructions in the email to confirm your addition to this list.