If you have read my earlier posts, you know I love the Df. I have been using this camera extensively this year from humid jungles in Peru to chilly glaciers in Alaska. I love the files, retro styling, lightweight, quiet shutter and incredible ISO performance. I just shot over 4000 images on a big assignment, and the Df was the only camera I used.
In talking with Nikon last spring, a great idea emerged; how about combining two classics, historic Route 66 and the Df. Uh, where do I sign up for this job!? Soon after this I found myself logging over 2000 miles and shooting thousands of images through Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Just me, my Df, a few lenses and a couple speedlights. I haven’t traveled this light on a job in years, and it was very liberating. Just explore the highway, meet the colorful people along the way, and chase the light. Nikon just posted the results of my trip at Learn and Explore on their website.
This assignment had some unexpected results. It had been a long time that I shot an assignment without assistants, lots of gear and detailed production. On Route 66 I just roamed, followed the highway and watched the light stretch across sandy hills. I’d sit in diners and listen to old timers talk about change, the weather and local gossip. I ate some of the best pie I’ve ever eaten. I watched ravens soar through indigo skies in the Painted Desert. Time slowed down for me on this assignment. I really got a chance to explore my own photography, and remember why I like creating images. Route 66 used to represent freedom and hope to many travelers back in the day. For me, this classic highway led me back to my journalistic roots, and the simple joy of clicking the shutter at just the right moment.