Creativity: the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work. I’m concentrating on the words imagination and original. Does creativity have to be imaginative and original. I think so. That’s why I say I’m not really creative, but I do see opportunities and make something from them.
Oh Tina, you are leading me into a soul-searching moment with your topic of “Creativity in the time of Covid.” During this pandemic, depression creeps in and divisiveness pushes us apart. We need something to bring the sunshine back into our lives. For me that is photography. I’ve been trying to get out at least once a week with my camera. Now the weather is creating a barrier. Temperatures have been in triple digits and will continue for about another week. Today it hit between 110 and 112 in Sacramento. Typically, we shoot indoors during times like this, but many stores and museums are closed.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a studio or light box set up in my home for indoor photography. Additionally, I lack the creative ability to set up a still life. It’s just not my thing.
I don’t mean to depress anyone, but this is the way it is during the summer of Covid! Prior to this heat wave, I got out so let’s take a look at some images I have been able to capture during this pandemic.
Recently photo buddy Ray and I went to the California State Capitol World Peace Garden. I’ve lived here for 19 years and had never visited. It was beautiful. The Vietnam War Memorial was particularly moving.
And the flowers in the garden were just meant for a macro lens.
The small town of Fair Oaks is known for its chicken population.
More recently, I took a trip into the countryside to visit the CR25 Ranch in Esparto.
These and other outings brought joy and my type of creativity into my life. And when we get back into double digits, I’ll be taking my camera out again.
Slow Shutter Speed 
Truly wonderful images Anne – I feel exactly as you do. Photography is definitely my creative outlet and our 100+ temps make it very difficult. Hence my choice of the seashells this week. I don’t have the right equipment for it but it was fun and something different. I absolutely loved the museum images. Those sculptures/statues are amazing and your images of them bring them to life. Thank so much for your thoughtful post.
LikeLike
Thanks Tina! I wasn’t kidding when I said that this topic had me soul searching. I think my creativity lies in how I see opportunities and what I make of them. Thanks for the topic!
LikeLike
These statues are very moving, Anne.
I love your flower photos, Fun to see these chickens. 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you Amy. The chickens do have attitude!
LikeLike
Great photos. The war memorial and Esparto are my favorites.
LikeLike
Thank you John. The memorial artistry was beautiful and meaningful.
LikeLike
Love your variety – and all of them are excellent images!
LikeLike
Thanks Ann-Christine. I do appreciate your comment!
LikeLike
Such beautiful photographs. I especially enjoy the flowering ones. I can only take photos with my iPhone. LOL
LikeLike
Thank you! Those iPhones have good cameras now!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s said a shared problem is less problem… I don’t know, but reading your words, I feel like they’re like mine. And it comforts me to know that I am not alone and that there are many of us who feel the same way in these difficult days that we are living.
Great post!
LikeLike
Thank you Ana! I think we all share similar feelings now. We are not alone and we are all grieving for what we’ve lost. I doubt that when Covid is over we will go back to where we were. We need to celebrate each day for what it is and find joy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful pictures Anne, especially the flowers and war memorial shots.
LikeLike
Thank you Sylvia!
LikeLike