Sunday, November 27, 2011

"Majoring in the Minors"

I only had a moment to swing up my camera and get one shot of my dog standing on point overlooking the terrain below.  The lighting was perfect, he was back lit by the setting sun, and he was still only for a second.

I snapped the shutter!

And my satisfaction immediately crumbled to dismay . . . . .  I realized I hadn't adjusted my camera back from the spot metering mode I had been using in a tricky lighting situation a few moments earlier.  With my first glance in the back of the camera I understood that I had completely overexposed my one chance at the shot. If I'd taken the time to check my settings first I'd have missed the shot altogether.


But, as usual, there was an insight to be gained.  When I saw the picture on the computer screen it was obvious that indeed the background highlights were blown out, but the dog himself was quite acceptably exposed.  It occurred to me that this is a great metaphor for moving forward in my life: I can keep my focus on my goal, act fast, not get sidetracked by details, and ultimately I may find those details, which seemed so necessary, will simply fade into the background.

I read some time ago many of us waste our lives by "majoring in the minors".   Today I learned in a small way that bypassing the minors isn't a bad thing at all.

11 comments:

Patti said...

Barb, great words of wisdom and advice. Namaste, Patti

jane said...

I like your shot anyway - but maybe I am prejudiced - with having a collie dog also - Jane UK

Tami Weingartner said...

This is a lovely shot.....and remember......

that the artist can choose to blow the background out to make a stronger shot if she chooses.

And in this case...the white balance is lovely....and I very much like the blown background.

Congratulations on a lovely image.

Rambling Woods said...

I think it's a nice shot anyway..I try to look at my photos as memories, not as anything perfect as I will never have the patience to wait for the perfect shot..just the one that is....

Firas said...

You got a nice backlit shot :)

Janice said...

No matter how you got it...nice shot.Great subject.

Just Ramblin' said...

Great photo and wise words. : )

Holly said...

gorgeous!

Anonymous said...

words - to - pic, great shot, good for post cards as well :) well done.

2browndawgs said...

I think the picture came out nicely. :)

WildBlack said...

Well said! and a beautiful capture and post too :D