The Lighthouse Keeper

[Manfred M]

I struck up a conversation with the gentleman who came out of the lighthouse. I was a bit surprised when he identified himself as the lighthouse keeper. I had thought that these navigational aides were highly automated and only needed a bit of maintenance from time to time.




It turns out that there are still a few people who are lighthouse keepers, but this is largely just a day job. This keeper had called for a taxi and was on his way home when I stopped to chat. It seems that automation means this is a day job with weekends off.

This is a shot the lighthouse.

[FootLoose]

I like how you have included that square section of sky to balance the other rectilineal shapes, Manfred. Although for me the prominence of the sign overwhelms the presence of the subject a bit.

[Manfred M]

I like how you have included that square section of sky to balance the other rectilineal shapes, Manfred. Although for me the prominence of the sign overwhelms the presence of the subject a bit.

Thanks Greg - that was actually my goal when I framed the shot. Ultimately, the lighthouse is important, as is its location and the fact that it is operating. The keeper is much less so, as he is more of an anachronism in the modern day of automation of this function. The sun glasses, hat and uniform add the anonymity = he is just part of a much bigger and complex system.

[Dave A]

Nice images and story. Really like the second shot because it seems to capture everything. The lighthouse along with the ocean and cliff edge, the sky with just the right amount of clouds, the large fog horns, and nice shadowing.

Dave

[madcrow]

Manfred, thanks for story and shots. Like 2 for how lighthouse stands in the overall image.

[Shadowman]

Unique looking lighthouse, nicely captured.