Saturday 26 March 2011

Fifth Street Bridge

Anybody who has visited Courtenay knows the Fifth street bridge.  It's a local landmark and once the only link between Courtenay and Comox. There's another bridge further downstream at 17th street which handles more traffic but it doesn't have the same charm.

Comox Harbour and Peninsula

Comox Harbour and Peninsula as viewed from the Courtenay side. Although grateful for Courtenay's services, I prefer life on the peninsula.  It offers all the weather advantages of living on a gulf island without the bother of ferry schedules.

Friday 25 March 2011

Japanese Cemetery in Cumberland

The Japanese Cemetery in Cumberland is a heritage landmark. I last visited the site just before dusk after a February snowfall. While taking these shots the snow was melting and falling from the trees.  By the time I was finished shooting, the scene had completed changed as most of the snow had melted.

Tribune Bay

Although I have been there several times, Tribune Bay is a place that I have not visited often enough.  It is a timeless place and yet, each time I visit, I always discover something new.  This spot was pointed out to our group by a very talented local photographer and teacher, Boomer Jerritt.

Comox Wharf

Another shot taken during a thick winter fog.  The Comox wharf is a favourite for visitors and locals of all ages.  It's a great place to walk-off a meal or just exhale at day's end.

The Enduring Black and White Image

For me, there is something primal about the black and white image.  Somehow, the absence of colour simplifies them and in doing so, distractions are removed.  All that remains are the elemental values of contrast and tone.  My introduction to photography was many years ago through the realm of black and white film, which is part of the attraction.  Perhaps it's due to a need to simplify and reduce, in a world that is moving so fast and changing so quickly.  Despite all the wonderful advances in technology, I still find myself returning to the greyscale for inspiration. Nature is another source of inspiration for me. I grew up on the beautiful northern shoreline of Lake Superior.  After decades of wandering, I now have the privilege of living amidst the beauty of Vancouver Island.

On this blog you'll find some of my recent work.  Most images are in black and white, but sometimes I'm drawn to a scene that is better suited for colour.


Jamie Davidson