Daily Observations
I haven’t really been out of the house too much this month. The weather remains ridiculously hot for this time of the year, and I’m just not into the heat. Plus, my family and I didn’t do much cleaning last year, so we decided to finally get back on track and clean our house from top to bottom. Staying in has also given me some time to edit photos that I’ve been neglecting for a long time, so I guess that’s at least a good thing?
So whenever the weather is tolerable and I’m able to get out with my camera for a while, I’ve been trying to make the most of it. Nothing major, just walking and observing. Trying to slow down and make some photos of things I usually overlook. Challenging myself to pay closer attention to all of the beautiful details surrounding me on a regular basis. My thought process is, some of the work I’m doing now may not be considered my “best” but I’m sure the memories I document will be far more meaningful in the future. Also, I’m having fun, so that makes it even more important! After all, this work isn’t for anyone else…it’s for me. I’m creating to satisfy my need to create. So in that regard, that’s all that really matters. There’s so much freedom in not having to create for any specific reason. To me that’s the true joy of art. To create as a form of self expression. Having only ones self to please.
I’m still dealing with the long process of healing my mental/emotional health, so making photos for fun helps a great deal. I choose to share these photographs with the public as a way to share my ongoing process, my personal journey. Hopefully someone can make some kind of connection, or at least enjoy what they see.
With that being said, here are some photos from my most recent outing. Enjoy!
Rediscovering Fun Part 2
I really enjoyed photographing different parts of California with my phone stylized in infrared. I had so much fun I decided to share a few more of my favorites here in portrait orientation. Photography is hard work, but we must always remember to make time to enjoy ourselves. Never stop having fun!
Rediscovering Fun
After losing my mother last month I decided to take a break from creating. During my down time I thought a lot about how serious we take ourselves in the pursuit of money and a career. Getting back into the routine of making photos again I wanted to take it easy, and just try to have fun again. Reminding myself that not every photo has to be a “masterpiece” or your “best” work. Sometimes we should do things just for fun. Remember why you chose your line of work in the first place. Not for the sake of having another job, not for awards, or likes and follows, but simply for the enjoyment of taking photos. To create for your own satisfaction. I haven’t even been taking my big, “serious” work cameras out. I’ve just been taking snapshots with my point & shoot, or mostly using my iPhone. Truth is, when it comes to posting on social media, most people don’t even recognize the difference anyway.
I’ve always been in love with Kodak’s Areochrome infrared film. But since it’s been discontinued for some years now, I’ve never had the pleasure of actually using any. Thanks to the advancement of digital technology we are now able to replicate a similar look in our photos. Of course it’s not exactly the same, or better, it’s more like a simplified approximation of the original.
Lately I’ve also been trying to spend as much time as possible in tranquil, peaceful, environments. Trying to employ different methods to lessen my stress at all costs. Enjoying the simple pleasures in life, not taking small blessings for granted. I was born under the water sign, so water has always had a calming effect on my spirit. The cool breeze and crashing waves help to soothe my nerves. Spending time near water has been extremely therapeutic for my healing process. From the very beginning photography has been medicinal, so combining the two has been beneficial to both my life and art. Creating for fun has brought a degree of joy back into my life.
Being an artist that loves experimenting with different techniques made choosing infrared for this series very easy. Although I wish it were the real thing, I am content with the results I’ve been getting digitally. So much so, I’m even considering making a more significant project, using infrared as my primary color grading method. But, that’s a decision to be determined at a later date.
For now, I’m not putting any pressure on myself. There’s no timetable for anything. The goal is to use my art to help me heal, however long that may take? Whatever work is created during that time will be whatever it is. And although I’ll probably share this work publicly, it’s not for the public. It’s for me and me only. I’m not interested in opinions, or commentary, I just want to have fun. What’s the point of spending all this money on equipment and working hard for years if you never get to enjoy yourself? That’s one of the biggest issues currently plaguing the artistic industry. Unfortunately, so much of the joy, fun, and love is totally missing from the different art forms now. Music, movies, photography…it’s truly very sad to witness.
So I have to do my best to bring the fun back for myself. I can only hope that others will routinely re-examine themselves and follow in my footsteps. It’s very easy to lose your happiness, thereby becoming lost in the serious business of work. Sometimes questioning your purpose, and even falling into deep depressions. But we all have to remain protective of our joy. It is sacred. The undeniable fact is, we don’t have to create to impress others, or to be the greatest ever…but we must remember to constantly try to have fun. That will ALWAYS be an important aspect of our lives!
Please remind yourself to actively enjoy the process of creativity.
Goodbye Old Friend
Goodbye old friend. It’s terribly painful to see you go away. I will always miss you.
The old friend that I’m referring to? My hometown’s local drive-in movie theater, the legendary Hilltop.
Paying my respects during the first snowfall of winter, January, 2015. Photo by ©Antonio Orsborn copyright 2015.
I can’t begin to express to you how many of my favorite childhood memories are deeply connected to this place.
My first experience was going with my parents as a baby in the mid 70’s. Next, watching it evolve as a child throughout the 80’s. Eventually growing up and taking my own family in the 90’s. Sadly watching it struggle to stay open and relevant in the early 2000’s. Witnessing a small resurgence under new ownership, before ultimately seeing it go out of business for good. The rapid growth in popularity of digital media as well as mismanagement helped to seal it’s doomed fate.
Seeing those doors closed and watching the property deteriorate over time broke my heart even back then. Now seeing it completely destroyed by misfortune breaks my heart in a seriously more profound way. Now I know it’s truly over.
The city I grew up in wasn’t always nice. The family I grew up in wasn’t always happy. But, some of my most positive memories of fun and joy are directly tied into this location. This where my love of the movie going experience began. It’s also a bridge to my personal memories of a period in time long forgotten. A place where people would socially gather outdoors to enjoy a movie. It might be very difficult for modern people to fully understand how eventful this activity truly was without having been there during that specific time. We didn’t have a lot of money and we couldn’t really travel, so the drive-in represented the type of excitement a child would feel when visting their favorite amusement park. The drive-in was literally like my Disneyland.
Just preparing to go was an event all unto itself. Looking through the newspaper to find out what was playing? And at what time? Getting dressed in the appropriate clothing based on the current season. The long drive there. Well, what I thought was the long drive there, since everything seems more grand when you’re a child.
My youngest brother preparing to photograph a place that unfortunately he was never able to fully enjoy.
I can remember everything about this place in vivid detail!
From the swings, slide, and merry-go-round that sat right underneath the screen for the children. Hell, even the mosquitoes! The strong smell of OFF bug repellent in the air. To the way the light from the projector would shine across the night sky with the stars sparkling in the distance. Each and every time was exciting for me. From getting there early sometimes to beat the traffic. To playing with random children before the sun set, letting you know it was time to head back to your car. To showing up at night while the lights from the marquee would glow, illuminating the surrounding pavement. The display of bold red letters, arranged by hand, describing what’s “Now Showing”.
The area directly underneath the movie screen where once upon a time various rides and toys were installed for kids to enjoy.
The familiar yellow and white marquee where every movie titled would be clearly displayed.
The long line of cars with their headlights shining, waiting to pull up to the brightly lit ticket booth. The friendly individual happily greeting you while handing you your tickets. Driving around until you find the perfect spot. Or maybe being too late and having to park further away from the screen towards the back. Rolling down the window, hanging the speaker inside. Followed by turning on the radio, trying to tune the dial to find the right station for a clear audio signal. Watching the intermission cartoons sing and dance, instructing you to be courteous to the others, while also recommending which snacks to purchase. To one of my favorite moments of all, walking to the concessions building.
The boarded up remains of the old ticket booth.
Our drive-in had a large concessions building, much bigger than the average stand. When I was a child the building itself was painted bright orange and white. During operating hours the front and back doors would be wide open. The light from inside would pour out onto the gravel. People would be maneuvering in and out, balancing a variety of snacks in their hands. And the best part, the overwhelming smell of hot, freshly popped, buttered popcorn!
The concession “stand”. Clearly visible is the original orange bricks peeking from underneath the very last paint job.
I’m an old-school movie goer and a diehard movie theater popcorn lover. I’ve been to tons of theaters, carnivals, fairs, plus popped my own corn at home for years. But, nothing can compare to the way the popcorn smelled at the Hilltop! It stands out as one the most instantly identifiable memories of my entire experience there.
The smell grabbed you instantly! It grew stronger as you moved closer to the inside, making you hungrier with every step. And although there was plenty of other wonderful food being prepared, the popcorn was the star attraction. The aroma was truly undeniable.
The inside was a child’s paradise! The assortment of candies neatly lined up behind the glass counter. All of a child’s favorite junk food items being prepared right before your eyes. The cheesy Tombstone pizzas. The flavorful ice cream sandwiches. The delicious nachos. The iconic Chicago style hot dogs. The old style lemonade & fruit punch fountains, with the colorful liquid dancing around inside the glass containers. Oh, and some of the absolute best hamburgers I’ve ever had!
I even loved just wandering around on the inside. The food, the games, the people, the decor. All of it made me happy to be there. Getting somewhat of a behind the scenes look at the huge projectors transporting our movies outdoors through a beam of light. I thought it was both fascinating and magical!
The fuse boxes which controlled many of the outside lights, located on the ground level inside the actual screen.
Over time watching the mostly mechanical 1970’s pinball machines evolve into the 1980’s electronic video arcade games. Seeing the large crowd of people gathered around the new technology of Space Invaders, then Pac-Man & Donkey Kong. I can’t count how much money I wasted in those machines, but it was worth every penny!
Running into both friends and family randomly was always another exciting surprise. Living in a small town means you’re more than likely to run into someone you know quite frequently. Especially in those places where large crowds gather seeking to enjoy themselves.
Honestly, walking back to your car with your food was even an adventure. Trying to find your way in the dark while not spilling or dropping anything…classic.
Let me just reminisce a little deeper for a moment…
I’m thinking about how we’d always go no matter what. Despite all of the completely different Midwestern weather conditions. The heat. Being rained out. The cold winds. It didn’t really matter. We always seemed to have a good time, even when the movies were no good. Sometimes we’d sit on the hood of the car, or my Dad would park in reverse so we could sit on the trunk. Taking blankets and pillows for extra comfort. Meeting new, friendly, people. For instance, very often someone with a truck would allow us to sit in the back of the flatbed, providing another playful viewing position. Even my earliest memories of being a small child and sitting on the roof of my Father’s car. Can you imagine how much fun that was?
We use to bring our own foldable chairs to sit outside, and sometimes we brought our own cooler. We even barbecued many times on site before and during the movie. You can’t do that inside a regular theater!
I mean, where else could you have the choice to see two brand new movies, two awful horror movies, or two goofy B-movies for the price of one? It was seriously a better value when directly compared to my other love, the standard sit-in movie theater. Not to mention the freedom and privacy it provided you with. It was great! And it was definitely an extra special treat to go on a random school night!
Being able to go back to school and tell your friends all about what you saw. Especially if it was R-rated or nudity involved! Or sometimes simply falling asleep in the backseat before the movie ended. Only to wake up with just enough time to ask, “what’d I miss?”
It was always bitter sweet staring out the window as the credits rolled. Slowly drifting along as my parents tried to beat the traffic to the exit. Not wanting it to be over, but looking forward to the next trip.
Then becoming a young man, driving your own car, going on dates. The many make out sessions with any young lady you were trying to impress at the moment. Finally, maturing and taking your own children in hopes that they’d have an appreciation for your nostalgia. Being able to bond over this retro form of entertainment in a modern setting. Man, what an awesome experience!!!
The rusted old speaker poles. Each of the many parking spots were equipped with 2 speakers on each pole. The exposed wiring is all that now remains.
In light of our recent COVID crisis, there has been an unlikely rebirth of drive-in movie theaters worldwide. A whole new audience is now being introduced to their parents or grandparents “old fashioned” way of viewing films. For this very reason, I had high hopes that the Hilltop would somehow be revived. For years I would tell anyone who would listen that the Hilltop is and should be a historic landmark for our city! It should never be disregarded or torn down! Now the worst has happened…Weakened by years of neglect and abuse, this seemingly indestructible brick construction is abruptly destroyed by a powerful summer storm?! I’m stunned!!!
The wood, brick, and metal which formed the foundation of the structure, had begun to deteriorate years ago.
For the official news report click the link below:
https://patch.com/illinois/joliet/joliets-hill-top-drive-theater-toppled-storm
Selfishly, I never wanted this special place to go away. Specifically in such a disgraceful fashion. I often hoped that someone with the money and the proper vision would see the value in renovating the property for the future. I thought that maybe some local saviour would come along, willing to invest into the community, but it never materialized. Such a shame because, I always looked forward to riding by to catch a glance, or stopping by to take a few pictures whenever I would visit. It was always one of the highlights of my trip. Even when it was strangely converted into a makeshift soccer field. Even throughout the years when it was abandoned and vandalized. I hated seeing it that way, but I could always count on physically seeing the buildings and taking a moment to reminisce.
As the building became abandoned, both the inside and outside would be vandalized with colorful graffiti.
I don’t know what the owner of the property or the city is planning to do with the land? Maybe they’ll rebuild it? Although I highly doubt it. Maybe they’ll clear it all out? Effectively erasing the entire history of this once thriving landscape. No matter what they choose to do, I know that whenever I visit my only option will be to recollect on what use to be. Even if they totally rebuild the site exactly the way it once was, I’ll always know that the original, this important symbol of my childhood, is now gone forever!
So, goodbye my dear friend! Thank you for the countless thrills, excitement, and memories. I will forever reflect upon you with happiness and great fondness. I will continue to tell your story, and I will absolutely never forget you! You will forever represent a much simpler time in my life, as well as the world in general. You were quirky. You were unique. You were romantic. You were the best!
A shell of it’s former self. The back of the building that served as the massive viewing screen. So many generations enjoyed countless movies here. So much history behind these weathered bricks.
Saying my final goodbyes. The joy that you brought into my life is immeasurable. I will cherish it always. Photo by: ©Antonio Orsborn copyright 2015.
Early Morning Color Palette
Very few things in life can compare to the beauty of an early morning sun rise. I wouldn’t consider myself a “morning person” by any means! But, I understand and appreciate the energizing power of a brand new day. The colors that come alive and start to envelop the surrounding environment is truly inspiring. It seems that they can only be matched by the soft, warm, glow of the setting sun. I always feel a sense of thankfulness whenever I’m up to both document and enjoy a wonderful sunrise.
Fear Of Flying
Is it fear of flying or fear of dying?
Fear of living, fear of trying?
Calm your nerves, face your fears
Fight the anxiety, apprehension and tears
Fear is real, but worry no longer
For when you worry your fear grows stronger
Conquer your fear when doubts begin
Should it reappear, fight it over again!
Sedona Family Vacation Monochrome
I guess the old saying, “you learn something new everyday” can certainly be applied to this particular experience.
Before I ever stepped foot in Arizona I never knew it snowed there. I, like most people, assumed the weather was too consistently hot to produce snow. I couldn’t be more wrong! During a recent holiday vacation to Sedona I was finally able to see snow in the desert first hand. It’s both a strange and beautiful sight to behold. Seeing all of the familiar desert trademarks such as, a cactus, covered in snow is definitely a memorable occasion. I’m so happy that my family and I were able to witness this moment together, as I feel it’s a unique encounter that my children will never forget.
Photos and videos can only do so much to represent the sheer beauty that can only be truly appreciated in person. Exploring unusual scenery such as, the juxtaposition of snow in a desert setting, is something I highly recommend for everyone fascinated by travel and adventure.
Beautiful Nevada Scenery
The more I visit Nevada the more I fall in love with all of it’s beautiful desert scenery. The colors, textures, and of course the details! I hope to go back soon for more in depth exploration and photo making.
Here are just a few photos from a visit to Red Rock Canyon that I captured with my phone.
Vegas iPhone Selects
Here are a few of my favorite iPhone photos from a recent trip to Las Vegas. More to come soon…
Grand Rising!
A beautiful sunrise I was fortunate enough to capture, handheld, while out walking one morning last month.
Tropical Storm Irma
The destruction caused by Hurricane Irma was far reaching, extending into parts of Georgia in the form of a tropical storm. Although the damage was far less than expected in the Columbus city area, strong winds toppled large tress, and power lines. The winds also scattered debris across the city’s streets causing some roads to be blocked off. There was also some minor flooding, power outages, as well as school and work closings. On the worst day of the storm I spent most of my time out walking the streets trying to document the damage. Below are a few samples of just some of the things that I saw.
(Please click on each image for larger view)
1st Of The New Year
Happy New Year to everyone!
My very first post of the new year is a beautiful southwestern sunset captured a few days ago and shot with my iPhone 6 Plus. I know that I haven’t been posting as much, but I have been doing a ton of shooting lately and I have many new exciting images to share in the coming weeks/months. Stay tuned.
Morning Glory
The sun rises early upon another fall morning. I am thankful to witness it’s natural glory.
-Robert N. Jones
STOPlight
Stuck in traffic under the unforgiving summer sun, forced to crank up my AC, I realized something. As I ride around this city lately I’m noticing an increasing amount of construction everywhere. Access to streets and entire areas of the city are always blocked off effectively inconveniencing everyone, yet I hardly ever see any improvement once they’re FINALLY done! They also seem to perform their work on the weekdays during the absolute busiest times of the day. Here is a perfect example of what I mean. Unfortunately I’ve accumulated quite the collection of these types of photos over time, but a large amount of them are from just this year alone! I’ll certainly be happy once they finish so I can go about my way without the constant detours and alternates routes.
(Click on the image for a larger view)
Too Hot To Be Out?
I’d like to share a few photos that I captured last weekend. Due to the excessive heat I only ventured out for a little while, and the city was basically a ghost town anyway. The few people that were out were all near the water trying to cool off. I wasn’t able to shoot very much for very long before I could no longer stand the heat, but below are a couple of shots that I thought were cool. Better luck next time I guess? This is the time of year when shooting can be tricky due to the amount of heat and humidity, especially in the areas of this country that are prone to higher temperatures such as the south. You really have to pick and choose when to come outside. More often than not when the sun starts to go down, effectively giving you much less time for actual shooting. It truly makes me look forward to fall and winter! That tends to be the time of year when I shoot at a much higher volume.
Anyway, I hope everyone enjoys their weekend!
(Click on each image for a larger view)
Mini Vacay
Spending time in one of my favorite vacation spots is always an instant remedy for stress. The moment the cool air from the water hits your face you can feel it’s healing powers take over your entire body. The happy sounds of tropical music fills your ears, while the delicious aroma of fresh fruit and grilled Gulf seafood teases your sense of smell. Your next thought is always how you immediately know you never want to leave. It’s been far too long since my family and I have been on a vacation anywhere together, so this trip was definitely long overdue! It’s been a tradition of ours to go to Florida at least for a few days to relax, but our last trip was suddenly interrupted by an unfortunate emergency. It’s been well over a year since our last trip and going back we can see right away that a few things have changed. Gone are all of the wild spring-breakers of the past, replaced by a more family oriented crowd which was absolutely perfect timing! After check-in everyone races to the room to drop off their bags and head straight to the beach. Finally!!! The moment you dream of for months at a time has finally arrived, and you couldn’t be happier! Ahh…time to kick your feet up, chill, and enjoy all of the new attractions at your leisure…after all, there’s no room to worry about time here. For once time excuses itself for your enjoyment.
Never without my camera, I documented the trip as usual and I’d like to share a summary of the various sights with images organized more or less in the order in which they were taken. I hope you enjoy the photos and your weekend!
(Click on each photo for a larger view)
Moss
I know most people think moss is gross, and I totally get it, but I happen to think it’s pretty interesting. I love all the details! I also love the growth patterns and colors. I actually have quite a collection of moss photos I’ve accumulated over the years. Here are some of my most recent moss images taken at a park near my house.
(Click Each Image To Enlarge)
Good Morning Thursday!
Good Thursday morning everyone! I just thought I’d drop in and share a few shots from an early morning walk. I hope everyone enjoys their day!
Breaking The Silence
Wow, my first post in quite a while. This is totally unlike me, as I like to post regularly to stay consistent as well as challenge myself to continually post something. I never planned to stay away for so long because, I really do enjoying blogging. Real life just has a way of changing your plans for you. I’ve made some huge changes recently prompting me to do a lot searching deep within myself. I’ve had both personal and professional difficulties that I’ve been forced to address lately. As artists we’re often confronted with periods of downtime that can lead to huge slumps and even depression. These issue tend to work themselves out with time, and or a healthy dose of inspiration. Unfortunately right now this awkward predicament is my current status. I’m stuck inside a difficult battle within myself. My creativity is in a fierce fight with my reality. My heart wants to be set free but my mind won’t allow me to become too lost in my dreams. I already have the answers that will solve most of my issues, but right now they’re just out of my reach. No worries though, I will continue to push through until I’m closer to where I want to be. Until then I won’t force a thing. I have tons of photos accumulated over the years that I will share as the mood strikes me. I’m confident that eventually I’ll be back up and running at 100% creating even greater work!
If you’ve supported me over the years I sincerely thank you. Things are tough right now but they’ll get better. Stick around!
With all that said, I’d like to share a peaceful image I captured one morning while out enjoying the soft, gentle breeze. I try to find any little moment I can that will ease my mind, allow me to relax and enjoy myself.
A Cool Winter Afternoon
I love the mood that winter weather can create. Cloudless deep blue skies and a crisp breeze. I can look at this photo and still feel the air all around me. Refreshing!
New Year/Morning Frost
I know that I’m late, but I hope everyone has been enjoying the new year? It hasn’t been much of a winter for those of us who actually appreciate a winter season, but it has been cold the last few days. When I woke up this morning I was finally greeted to a yard full of frost. This is a little more like it! Truth is, this just really makes me miss shooting in the snow even more…
Reflecting On 2015
As this year closes I’ve been spending more quiet time alone reflecting on my past and what lies ahead in my immediate future. I’m a very introspective person so as the end of each year approaches it’s common for me to assess the totality of my collective 12 months. I’ve analyzed all of my accomplishments, failures, set new goals, and compiled a mental list of ways to improve upon myself.
I, like most people, like the security of a regular routine, but it can create complacency so I have to frequently break free from my comfort zone and do things I’m not accustom to doing. This regimen has effected the way I view change. Being a creative individual it’s very easy for me to become bored extremely quickly, so forcing myself to sometimes be uncomfortable has presented an interesting challenge for me to overcome. It is this challenge that makes me look forward to change. Over time I’ve learned to embrace it more and more. For instance, 2015 has been an absolute blur! I sometimes find it hard to differentiate 2014 from 2015 because, in my mind they feel almost concurrent. I’ve made so many changes and adjustments in the past 24 months that I literally lose track of time!
With all that said, I am happy with the direction I’ve been taking with my work lately, and I’m always looking forward to progressing even further. I’m also very enthusiastic about the prospect of acquiring more knowledge to further enhance my mind and my skills. God willing, I will spend the last days of this year in preparation for the impending change. I welcome change at it’s own pace so there’s no need for me to make resolutions. I’d much rather make realistic declarations! I declare that as long as I’m able, I will continue to work just as hard next year as I did this year to achieve what I believe in. I see you coming 2016…I’m making room for you right now!
Versatility By RNJ 