Anticipation

[Donald]

Not the greatest image ever made, but an important one on a couple of fronts.

Some of you on here know the circumstances whereby my dear partner and wife, Sheila, died of ovarian cancer on 31st December 2014. Well, today, for the first time since a few weeks before Sheila's death on 31st December, I felt like taking the camera out of the bag. Secondly, given I just got the 7DMkII immediately before Sheila's health deteriorated significantly, I had only just set it up, but never fired a frame in anger. So, I spent part of today re-learning the basics of driving it.

I wanted to see what it felt like to shoot at 10 frames-per-second. Garry had to be the model. So, out into the garden we went.

As we've said on here before, it's not always the greatest pictures that have the most meaning for us at a personal level.

[Mike Buckley]

It's great to see you posting an image after your understandable hiatus! This is a far better image than your narrative seems to indicate. Indeed, you really do have a way of getting back into photography! (I can't imagine the feel of what it's like to shoot at 10 frames per second. Yikes!)

Consider reducing the strength of the vignette.

[Shadowman]

Sorry to hear about your wife. My condolences.

Nicely captured image.

[mknittle]

So sorry for your great loss. My prayers are with you.

[FrankMi]

Hi Donald, I've thought about you often during your grieving and I am encouraged to see that you are overcoming your loss to the point where you can start to move on.

Great action and positioning in this shot! Your landscape images are usually great static shots so its good to see an action shot in your portfolio!

[Loose Canon]

Donald I knew of the circumstances some time ago but that’s all. I’ve often thought about it and wondered.

I had no idea the rest.

Donald my Heart is on the Ground for this loss.

This is such a cool shot on so many levels. I’m betting Miss Sheila is smiling for you and Garry!

Well done, sir. You are an inspiration in so many ways.

[Kaye Leggett]

Donald, I knew you had been quiet but did not know why - my sincere thoughts are with you. Your picture of Garry is a credit to you to smile and cry and remember. May he and your camera help in the coming months as you begin this new chapter of your life.

[IzzieK]

I was guessing about your absence and I was right. Hope you are well and healing. We all know what it is like to lose our closest friend and relation. I've been through it very recently and still mourning because I am scared that if I stop, I will forget all the good days we shared with one another. CiC is a crutch for me -- and also my new camera. Hoping for the best for you...My prayers are with you.

[Rita]

So truly sorry to hear about your wife. Everyone grieves in different ways but the important thing is to allow yourself to grieve.
This image is special because of how it came to be. I am sure that it will be very meaningful to you as time goes on.

[HMW12]

Donald so very sorry to hear of your loss - my thoughts are with you.
Very great image of a special friend to help you through this difficult time.

[Brownbear]

Hi Donald,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Expressing heartfelt condolences for the loss of a loved one is beyond words. I hope you are surrounded by loved ones, family and friends and that you always feel Sheila's reassuring presence, comfort and love through each and every moment of every day. I've a feeling that she is smiling and happy that you are once again doing what you love to do, and do so well, photography...

[Donald]

Thank you all for your thoughts and comments. Garry makes sure I don't just sit all day and dwell on things. His demands to be played with keep me alert. And hopefully I'll get into my photography with renewed energy. I certainly hope I'll try different things and continue to stretch myself.

[dje]

Donald I'm so sorry to hear of your sad loss and offer my sincere condolences. I hope you are able to recover from your grief as quickly as possible and that interests like photography and your dog will help in that regard.

You're off to a good start with that photo !

Dave

[terrib]

Donald,
I've often wondered how things were and am very sorry for the loss of your dear Sheila.

I like that Garry is centered in this shot and that you've applied a heavy vignette. For me, it represents that he provides a focus for you and that he is helping to center you, to keep the worst of it all at bay. I'm glad you are out with the camera. In my experience, the photography and the dedication and reflection that comes with it will provide great solace in time.

[Stagecoach]

I'm so sorry to hear of your sad loss Donald. As for the picture, wonderful.

[chauncey]

So sorry my friend...may the memories forever last in your heart.

[GeoBonsai]

Donald, so sorry for the loss of your wife.

[andrewaxford]

Donald. Use your good memories to help you through your tough times. I'm sure you will remember things about every photograph you have and that one of the great things about photography. Look out the ones that give you good feelings. Best wishes. Andrew.