STARFISH & SHELLS

When I was younger, back in the days before digital, I desperately wanted to capture some large format film images. A 5×4 plate camera was the ultimate tool for high-end image quality and control if it was in the hands of 

someone with the skill to use it. The problem was they were expensive to buy and to use, simply out of my budget.

Fortunately, I had a good friend who owned a camera shop. Knowing how passionate I was about photography and the fact that I had helped him when he needed it, he kindly offered me the use of his kit for a holiday I had planned to Cornwall here in England.

It’s fair to say I had read a lot of books (no internet back then) about operating the camera, but it was still very alien to use. The image was not only viewed upside down but also in reverse on the ground glass screen. The operation would be difficult in a studio environment, but I was on a breezy beach attempting to create perfectly focused images. In short, it was a disaster, and I felt like giving up and grabbing my trusty Canon 35mm camera.

It’s amazing what a good night’s sleep can do. The next morning, in the rustic seaside cottage where I was staying, I sat drinking my morning tea, admiring a beautifully rustic coffee table and a starfish that was set upon a shelf close by. At that point, I knew this would be the perfect subject for me to use with the camera in a more comfortable, controlled environment.

We collected some shells from the cove at the bottom of the lane and created this richly textured still life, which lent itself perfectly to the fine details and tones that large format film provides. This setup was ideal for creating aesthetic posters and wall art prints that captured the intricate details and textures of the seashells and starfish. The combination of the starfish and other sea elements created a visually appealing composition, perfect for photography art wall decor.

The following week, the film finally returned from the lab, and I was completely overjoyed with my first attempts using the camera. The images were rich in texture and delicate tones; they were simply breathtaking. These photography canvases became a cherished part of my collection, showcasing the beauty of nature in stunning detail. The starfish wall art and seashell decor added a touch of coastal charm to my home.

Needless to say, my perseverance had paid off, and I continued to use the camera many more times over the years. This experience taught me the value of patience and adaptability, leading to some of the most rewarding moments in my photographic journey. 

The large format film images became a significant part of my photography decor, reminding me of the importance of experimentation and perseverance. The starfish wall art and seashell decor were a testament to the beauty found in nature, making these moments all the more special.