Let’s face it; I am not a very social person. I try hard to be at times but overall I am that girl who would much rather be sitting in a coffee shop downtown by myself, with headphones in jamming to “State Champs” or “The 1975,” and writing an article. I HATE social events. Honestly, hate them and to be honest I am not sure why.
For the past few years, to just about every social gathering I have attended my best friend Billy, also known as my camera (yes I named my camera, it’s not weird people name their cars all the time!) came with me. Billy became my steady and my plus-one. With my camera around my neck, it made me feel like I was finally a person with a purpose, to take pictures.
The best part about it is that when I bring Billy, my camera, I never really have to be all that social. Having my camera allows me to be a part observer, part participant, without truly having to say anything. I’m present and connected in my way, and I am perfectly content with it. In short, my camera is a magic pass, giving my introvert self-access to faces -- and their individual souls -- without the need for too much exhausting chitchat.
Billy, A Canon Rebel xs, has always been there for me, capturing the beauty of life in ways that people aren’t able to see it originally. He has allowed me to have an eye for capturing life in a way that just makes it beautiful. Billy has been with me all over the world, from Minnesota to Chicago to London to Ireland. He has been to over forty concerts with me and has been on many adventures around the city. He accompanied me throughout my high school years and even to college! We have grown up together, and he has gained such a huge part of my heart and will always.
Now, this past weekend I received an incredible birthday gift from my parents. They gave me a new camera. My dream camera, in fact, in which I have named “Bob.” Bob is a Canon 1D Mark ii n. He is incredible. This past weekend, I spent so much time with Bob trying to figure him out and went exploring in the city like I used to do with “Billy." I think that it made Billy jealous.
Here is me and Bob:
I have a feeling that Billy feels as if Bob has replaced him… but he hasn’t. Billy has, and always will have a huge part of my heart and will always be so important to me. He was the camera there with me since the beginning. I learned everything I know with him by my side, he has gotten me photo gigs and has experienced seeing my favorite bands live with me. We have memories together that will NEVER be forgotten.
Although Bob has so many more buttons, features, and works so much better in low light, he will never replace Billy. He is a new member of our team, and we are so lucky and excited to have him. Hopefully, Billy and Bob will become great friends, and we will work together creating some great opportunities to come our way!
I love you, Billy & Bob. Thanks for being my best friends and helping me live my dream as a photographer.
Billy, here are a few pictures from our adventures together! I haven't forgotten about you. We still have many adventures to come, we just have a new friend to join us on them! Bob, I hope you are ready!
