What would life be like for us if we were young again? I’m not sure I’d want to be young in this crazy, unstable world of ours. But when I see the world through a child’s face and it’s joy and innocence, I’m hopeful. Tina’s challenge is for us to be young again through children, human and animal, we have photographed.

I’m hesitant to photograph children I don’t know, and usually ask a parent for permission. However, sometimes there’s no way to ask. As in this photo. A child strapped in on a high swing having a great time. What joy.

I did ask for permission when I saw this gorgeous red hair. The girl turned around as her mother said yes and gave me a big smile. I bet I wasn’t the first person with a camera to ask permission.

Parades are very public and a great place to photograph participants.

Even the kids were enjoying this pirate festival.

And now for a diva in the making.

Being a zoo member, I’ve seen many animal moms have babies (not literally). They are precious. Here are some.

Baby flamingo making a first appearance.
They were kept inside until old enough to meet the public.
Wolf’s Guenon. Mom and baby.
Wolf’s Guenon Baby.
Mom and baby giraffe.

More animals: Swans and cygnets; Geese and goslings.

There’s a certain joy when you are in the company of children–human or animal. For me there’s three levels of childhood flooding my memories: my childhood, my children and my grandchildren. And let’s not forget the puppies that have brought joy into our household. Yes, we seniors have wonderful memories bringing us joy. Thank you Tina for challenging us with this wonderful topic. When you post your youthful images, please link to Tina’s original post and use the Lens-Artists tag.

Last week Egidio had us all listening to and singing our favorite tunes. I enjoyed reading about and listening to your selections. Next week Patti is challenging us, so be sure to look for her post.

If you would like to participate weekly in our Lens-Artists Challenge, click here for more info. 

46 thoughts on “Lens Artists Challenge #298: To Be Young Again”

  1. Oh, Anne, what darlings those kids are in your photos! The red-haired girl will become a model. I liked all photos, and your closing images with animals were sensational, too.

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    1. Thanks Alison! For me it’s the circumstance. In a parade, people are out there to be seen and photographs usually follow. However, walking along is a more private setting even though it is in the public arena. I like to photograph children from the back or side so their face isn’t prominent.

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  8. Well done Anne – obviously the little redhead is the hit of the post but all of the images are terrific. I loved the little Mouseketeer 😊. Your animal “kids” are wonderful too.

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    1. Thanks Tina! I’m an introvert and I’ve learned to accept that I’m like wallpaper, especially when a “redhead” walks in and lights up the room. I’m glad you liked the Mouseketeer. She was so genuine and didn’t know I took the picture.

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      1. As they say, just get out and do it! Kind of fun to go to the mall, set your camera up on the table with your coffee, look at the LED screen on the back and move it around to take photos. I’ve done that and had a blast . . . a bit of Harriet the Spy but updated. :0

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  10. Oh yes, the little red headed girl showed every bit of her spirit. And parades are truly a great place to people watch, kids included. I loved your opening remarks about seeing joy and innocence in their eyes. And there is hope, yes…let us hope.

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  20. What a fantastic collection of children! They are so expressive and so honest in their reactions. I love that! And the zoo…your love for all creatures shines through here, Anne. A lovely set. 

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