The last weekend of October, I feel, is the beginning of the holiday season. From Halloween to Thanksgiving to Christmas, it is my favorite time of year, and not only for photography but for a few other things, too. This year is going to be even better, and here is why.

I love the holiday season. As a man, I do like the cozy feeling this time of year brings. It is a time for flannel shirts, my Pea Coat, a perfectly warm sweater, and a snug beanie. It is a time to split wood, haul it in, and listen to the crackling of the fire in the old woodstove or fireplace. It is a time of apple cider, delicious food, and family.

This season, I am looking forward to spending more time out and about taking photos. I also want to reconnect with family who have been living far away for some time now. Recently, my sister and her family, who lived in Colorado for years, have moved back home to Southern Oregon.

The plan is to have Thanksgiving with the entire family. And to be honest, I am looking forward to it! It’s been too long since we have all spent time together being thankful for one another. Enjoying a large turkey dinner sounds perfect.

When it comes to photography, I want to spend more time taking photos and even more time learning about the science behind it. I am older now, and the cold can feel a bit harder on my body, but I think it is worth it in the end. I imagine my grandchildren’s children’s faces as they stare into a picture of a holiday dinner long ago.

Hmm, I guess I am waxing nostalgic already…

But back to photography.

I love landscape and macro, but I think, perhaps, I should work on a little portrait photography this year, too. I am already being asked to take photos of this first Thanksgiving dinner we’ve all shared in years; I would think it a must. However, I’ll be honest, I am not good with portrait photography, not one bit.

I guess I will have to learn, at least enough to take better family photos.

I am also looking forward to the frosty days. The colder days of frozen cobwebs in the fields up the road from where I live, to the leafless trees that stand like cold cement statues along the hillsides.

I am also going to dive into some Christmas and Thanksgiving fun. I am thinking about holiday scenes, from the wild turkey that roams my neighborhood to shooting photos of the colorfully decorated streets before Christmas. Yeah, that sounds like fun!

No matter what, though, I am going to have my camera in hand a lot, period.

God bless and talk soon,

David.