Photography

Last edited Sat Dec 16, 2023, 01:58 PM - Edit history (1)

I have made many good friends here in the Photography forum on DU, but I have only had the pleasure of meeting two of you in person, the wonderful CaliforniaPeggy and her dear friend AndyS. I had the good fortune to spend an afternoon with both of them during Covid. We had a great lunch at a Mexican restaurant followed by a grand photo expedition around the Palos Verdes Peninsula. . I had hoped to go shooting with Andy again this past summer, but his shoulder injury made that impossible.

Andy and I did converse quite often through DMs, and we had a lengthy telephone conversation just this past October. You may recall my recent post and poll concerning the size and dimension limits for the monthly contests. To be honest, that post was probably about seventy percent AndyS and thirty percent Grumpy Old Guy. We both felt the same way about the existing rules, but he was probably much more adamant about getting them changed than I was. He had several points he wanted to raise with the forum members, and I added in some of my own. We agreed on everything. I think he wanted to post the poll himself, but he just didn't feel up to the task, no doubt because of his recurring health issues. He asked me to take it on, and I was glad to do so. Unfortunately, it took me about three or four weeks to get the job done, but eventually I did. He was remarkably patient about it.

Never once during that conversation did I get the feeling that Andy's days on this Earth were numbered. He seemed upbeat and resolute about his many health issues, and was just patiently trying to get through it all.

I have been taking pictures for well over fifty years, getting my start in the mid to late sixties. I know a lot about photography, but I was constantly impressed with Andy's skill and knowledge. Andy could "get in the weeds" when discussing any aspect about photography. He was equally adept at the science, theory and artistry involved. I learned a few things from him, and I'd like to think that maybe he picked up something from me as well. I doubt it, but hey, it's wishful thinking.

I know he was as knowledgeable about firearms and their use as well, although I think he had left area of his life behind him.

He was a good man, principled, honest, and dedicated to his craft. He will be missed.