Down sizing

I have, over the years, managed to collect a rather sizable number of cameras. 35mm, medium format, 4×5 box cameras, and a number of speed graphics. I was twenty four when I purchased my first speed graphic camera. I actually bought two at the same time out of the back of a car in the parking lot of Renys in Camden Maine. The seller was a retired Bangor daily news photographer who was downsizing his collection.

I sold one of the cameras, and then set out to learn about large format photography. I hauled that camera around everywhere, including a trip to Patagonia.

A few years ago I gave it to a friend who was looking for an inexpensive 4×5. Then, years later I ended up with two more. The most recent one once belonged to a police department in Connecticut. Beautiful condition, dozens of film holders, and flash bulbs.

I used it a few times, but soon realized it was just sitting on a shelf most of the time as I concentrated on my wet plate photography, and my 8×10 camera. It really needed a new home with someone that would fully appreciate it.

Up for sale on eBay. Local pickup. About an hour ago I handed it over to the new owner. First time in decades with out a graphlex camera. A little sad till I had the chance to talk with the new owner, and then I knew it was the right thing to do.

Pairing down, and moving ahead.