the sweet light » Film photography and natural light.

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© Azzari Jarrett

Just to be in one another’s presence is enough.

The stress of fulfilling our respective roles for the day is finally over.

Me. Him. A glass of wine. A hearty meal.

The first time we are able to reconnect all day.

We choose not to speak – because there is more said in our silence than in words.

We are just able “to be”.

And that is enough.

  • Ash - June 12, 2014 - 8:40 pm

    Just beautiful. Currently Reading Bread & Wine by Shauna Niequist and it’s really inspiring me to redefine meals around the table. Your words captured how I feel about it. Thank you.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 13, 2014 - 7:14 am

      will definitely have to check out that book.ReplyCancel

© Azzari Jarrett

© Azzari Jarrett

© Azzari Jarrett

I have been having a love affair with fonts lately.  Mini confession: I have been known to spend money on fonts before a new outfit.  The designer in me can’t help it!

I have been tinkering with my own fonts for a while now.  I played around with these images that I took in Napa Vally and San Francisco in February of 2012.  Quite fun to see my handwriting on these images!

Thought I’d share with you.   Introducing Coffee Shop, a simple truetype font of my handwriting.  Named as such, simply because I created this in –  you guessed it – a coffee shop.

 

 

CoffeeShop Font

 

Download Coffee Shop, free for personal use.  If you decide to use it on your own images (or anything else), please share the results – I’d love to see it!

Instructions for installing a font on Windows and/or Mac here.

Have a great weekend.

  • line - June 6, 2014 - 7:59 am

    lovely…..i love fonts too…ReplyCancel

  • Jessica - June 6, 2014 - 10:59 am

    This font is beautiful! I’ve downloaded it and I definitely plan on using it :) Thanks so much for sharing!ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 8, 2014 - 12:33 pm

      Perfect Jessica – glad you like it!ReplyCancel

  • Liza - January 12, 2015 - 1:41 pm

    Hi, Liza…and I’m a font junkie, too. This one is so fresh and clean. I really like it. Thanks for the free download.ReplyCancel

© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett

A typical late spring morning around here.

I love waking up early with sunlight there to greet me (yay for longer days!), breakfast with my little ones, trying unsuccessfully to make my bed while little feet are jumping, enjoying a moment outside, and morning naps.

I initially set out to capture the entire day in one roll.   But life happens, and I had to put my camera down and concentrate on my girls.   Thankful for normal days and enjoying every minute of right now.

  • Jade Sheldon-Burnsed - June 4, 2014 - 5:20 pm

    Those cute little baby legs are KILLING me! So, so darling…ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 4, 2014 - 9:30 pm

      Thanks, Jade!ReplyCancel

  • Sharon Caillier - June 4, 2014 - 9:27 pm

    These pictures are so beautiful. Were you using your film camera or digital?ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 4, 2014 - 9:29 pm

      These are all captured on film!ReplyCancel

  • tara shannon thayer - June 5, 2014 - 7:20 am

    that last of baby legs and feet-so beautiful…
    whenever i’m lacking in inspiration and looking for beauty, this is where i know i’ll find it.
    thank you.
    t.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 6, 2014 - 9:46 am

      thanks for your kind words, tara.ReplyCancel

Azzari Jarrett Film Cameras

I love to see what other photographers and creatives have in their bags, so here is my first installment – all about my film cameras.

I’ve collected all of these cameras over the last 4 years – beginning with the manual, 35mm Pentax K1000 (read the post here).   And I guess it is obvious that I became hooked!  Below, I’ve grouped my cameras by film type.

A. Jarrett Instant Film Cameras

Let’s get started with the instant film cameras.

1.  Polaroid Land Camera 250 – I love this camera.  I use Fuji Fp 100c  peel apart color film (mostly for shooting outdoors) or Fuji FP 3000b for black and white photographs, which I mainly use indoors.  I love the results of this camera – the pictures are always beautiful.  It took practice to learn how to focus correctly.  Also, when I take the land camera out in public for a shoot, it is definitely a conversation starter.  People are always interested and love to share their memories of their grandmother/grandfather using this camera.  Images that I have taken with the polaroid land camera are here.

2.  Polaroid Land Camera 660 – This camera takes traditional Polaroid 600 film, which is no longer available.  I still have a few packs left that I am hoarding which I purchased from ebay over a year ago.  The Impossible Project now makes polaroid film, but I have to admit that I haven’t experimented with their film extensively.  I bought one pack and did not get good results, but I may have to give it another try!  I almost always shoot outdoors with this camera since I never use the flash.  Images I have taken with my polaroid are here.

3.  Fuji Instax 210 – Definitely a fun camera – bright, bold images.  I always shoot outdoors with this camera, since the flash automatically fires indoors.  Images I have taken with the Instax 210 here.

4.  Fuji Instax Mini – Another fun camera that I don’t use as often as I should!  Mini version of the Fuji Instax 210, and cute, small pictures.

A. Jarrett 35mm cameras

Next up, the 35mm lineup.

5. Nikon F100 – Definitely my go-to camera.  I purchased this camera used from ebay, and I absolutely love it.  An automatic 35mm camera, it fits in my hand perfectly.  Great for shooting with a baby on my hip!  The F100 takes traditional 35mm film – my favorites are Kodak Ektar 100 , Kodak Portra 400 , and Fuji Pro 400H.  Images I have taken with the F100 here.

6. Pentax K1000 – My first film camera, and it definitely has my heart.  It is a heavy camera, completely manual.  I can honestly say that shooting with this camera really taught me how to adjust my settings and focus manually.  As with the Nikon 35mm, it takes all traditional 35mm film. Images I have taken with the Pentax here.

AJarrett Medium Format Cameras

Finally, my medium format cameras.

7. Contax 645 – I don’t use this camera nearly as much as I should!  I have found that the battery is not as reliable as I would like.  Love the feel of the Contax 645 in my hands – and the resulting images are beautiful.  Takes 120/220 film, and I also have a polaroid back for this camera.  Images I have taken with the Contax here.

8. Hasselblad 500c– I purchased this camera on a whim from a camera shop during a visit to San Francisco a couple of years ago.  I saw it, took one look through the viewfinder, pressed the shutter, and took it home with me that very day.  It takes 120/220  film – although here, it is outfitted with a polaroid back.  I should also note that I use a light meter to help me set the exposure.  I made a short film with this camera to demonstrate what it is like to shoot with instant film.  Images that I have taken with this camera here.

And there you have it – my film cameras.  I use each in a different way.  Mostly, I pick up what is closest and has film loaded!

In my next installment of What’s In My Bag, I’ll share a bit more about the digital cameras I use.

Feel free to ask me questions regarding any of these cameras, and I’ll answer in the comments below.

  • maica - June 2, 2014 - 4:13 am

    whew, so many of them! i wonder how you decide on what particular type of camera you’ll use on taking a snapshot? does it depend on the mood, subject? what you do take into consideration?ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 2, 2014 - 12:02 pm

      hi maica,

      great question!

      there are a few things that i take into consideration when determining which camera i pick up. first and foremost is indoors vs outdoor photography. the instant film cameras require a great deal of natural light – i’ll usually grab one when heading out on trips. indoors, i will grab one of the 35mm or medium format cameras. and of course, whatever film i have on hand is a determining factor.

      overall, i usually pick the camera/film that conveys the mood i am trying to capture. and there will be periods of time when i solely use one camera since that is what i am feeling at the moment!ReplyCancel

  • Birgitte - June 2, 2014 - 4:36 am

    I love this! So inspiring to see what’s in your camera bag. I have only experienced once with film (the impossibile film and a polaroid) but it wasn’t a huge success. Once I get some time I will get myself a film camera and start experimenting…ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 2, 2014 - 12:03 pm

      sounds great birgitte! i can’t wait to see your results.

      i’m also planning on writing a post on how to get started/experiment with film.ReplyCancel

  • Traci - June 2, 2014 - 10:40 am

    Those are some great cameras. Just wanted to say hi. i really enjoy your blog.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 2, 2014 - 12:03 pm

      thanks for following my work, Traci!ReplyCancel

  • patricia - June 2, 2014 - 11:17 am

    An excellent post – interesting and informative. I liked seeing your collection of beauties. I would like to experiment with manual film cameras sometime. My research so far has favoured the Pentax K1000, so I am happy to see it in your bag. I also like your photos with the Nikon F100. Do you have any advice/tips on choosing a manual film camera? If they are used, do they require frequent servicing? Many thanks for this post.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 2, 2014 - 12:11 pm

      hi patricia,

      thanks for your kind words. yes, i would definitely recommend starting out with the pentax k1000 – you will definitely learn the in’s and out’s of film photography by experimentation with a manual camera. i am planning a post on how to get started/experiment with film – look out for that.

      i purchased both the pentax k1000 and my nikon f100 used from ebay. they were both in excellent condition – i haven’t had to service either one of them. that being said, if you buy used (and on ebay), it is extremely important to communicate with the seller to make sure the camera is in working condition and the pictures accurately show the camera being purchased. you might also check out http://www.keh.com which sells used film cameras. They give you an accurate description of condition. so much more to say on this, i think another post is in order!ReplyCancel

      • patricia - June 2, 2014 - 1:55 pm

        I appreciate your reply, Azzari. I will check out the site you suggested. Will definitely be looking forward to your planned posts on beginning with film. Kind regards,ReplyCancel

  • line - June 4, 2014 - 8:03 am

    wow great review on film camera…with the Fuji Instax 210 to avoid flash you can put duck tape ….great pictures …..we love filmReplyCancel

  • Morgan - June 12, 2014 - 11:20 pm

    Thank you so much for taking the time to do this. I am new to photography and enjoyed learning what your favorite cameras are to use. It was very insightful and I am hoping to start using film cameras more often!ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - June 13, 2014 - 7:13 am

      thank you, Morgan! I’m glad you enjoyed this post.ReplyCancel

  • […] Today I’m finishing up my round up of cameras with my (small) digital collection.  You can read more about my film cameras here – what’s in my camera bag, part 1. […]ReplyCancel

© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett© Azzari Jarrett

Quotes, links, an other tidbits that I have found to be true this week:

  • It becomes increasingly hard to change a baby’s diaper.
  • Inspired by these film photographs by Tara Thayer.
  • I’ve been enjoying the people + interviews featured on Humans of New York  especially this one. And this one.
  • Worrying won’t stop the bad stuff from happening, it just stops you from enjoying the good.  I can relate to this post.
  • I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Rest In Peace, Maya Angelou.  I especially try to remember this when choosing my words and actions as a mother.  It is not what I say, how I say it, or what I do – in the end, it’s how I make my girls feel.  It is this that they will remember.

Have a great weekend.

20140519-©azzari_jarrett20140519-©azzari_jarrett-220140519-©azzari_jarrett-320140519-©azzari_jarrett-420140519-©azzari_jarrett-5© Azzari Jarrett

Lots of green in the garden this year.

I am really enjoying being outside and getting my hands dirty.  I didn’t plant anything last year because I was pregnant.  I didn’t have the energy to tend to plants daily, as I like to do.  I have to admit that I missed harvest, though.

It feels really good to be out there again.  My girls enjoy planting and watering, and it is always fun for them to join me.

This year, I have planted tomatoes, parsley, cilantro, bell peppers, green onions, and strawberries (not all pictured here).  My rosemary has been going strong for almost 3 years.  If only I could keep the rabbits from munching on my veggies and my flowers.  Any tips on that would be greatly appreciated!

Images from my garden in 2012 here.

A quick, “behind the scenes” look at my process of shooting with my Hasselblad 500c with a polaroid back, and fuji fp 100c film.

This is a completely new venture for me – my first video.   But I thought the quickest, easiest way to demonstrate my process would be to film it.  And I have to admit that I really enjoyed filming this.  Maybe it is my constant need to learn something new?

So often I post the finished product here, but I thought I’d try to give you a glimpse into what it is like to shoot with a medium format camera and instant film – having an actual, tangible picture in your hand minutes after you press the shutter.   And of course, now I have so many more ideas about videos –  like how to attach the polaroid back to the Hasselblad, how to load the film, etc.  Questions I had as I was beginning with film. This totally has me thinking about getting a tripod for future videos…..

A few credits:

Filmed with: Nikon D600

Music: Adventure, Darling by Gillicuddy

I created the entire film in iMovie on my Mac.  Pretty simple and straightforward.

Side note: I just love the sound of the Hassie’s shutter.  There’s nothing quite like it.

And finally, images that I have taken with the Hasselblad here.

  • Birgitte - May 23, 2014 - 5:33 am

    I love this. It seems to be a magical world. Keep on with the filming!ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 26, 2014 - 11:46 am

      Will do, Birgitte!ReplyCancel

  • Cara - May 23, 2014 - 11:27 am

    I love how you did this. I’ve seen videos of the things you described as I learned from many of them how to use my hass but you would bring so much beauty to the process, the spin you’d put on itReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 26, 2014 - 11:46 am

      Thanks, Cara – I agree, I think I’ve seen those same videos and they are all pretty bland. Glad you enjoyed this.ReplyCancel

  • line - May 23, 2014 - 9:44 pm

    great you should make more video………..ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 26, 2014 - 11:44 am

      i most definitely will!ReplyCancel

  • Patricia - May 25, 2014 - 7:57 am

    Thank you for this beautiful video. It describes the process in a poetic way. Yes, magic is here.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 26, 2014 - 11:44 am

      Thank you for your kind words, Patricia.ReplyCancel

  • […] back.  I should also note that I use a light meter to help me set the exposure.  I made a short film with this camera to demonstrate what it is like to shoot with instant film.  Images that I have taken with this […]ReplyCancel

  • hello july » the sweet light - July 2, 2014 - 6:24 am

    […] enjoyed making my first video so much, that I thought I would create another as a reminder of the sights and sounds of what July […]ReplyCancel

  • […] camera to capture my girls, take portraits, and client work.  I also love being able to capture full HD video.  My Nikon 50mm f/1.4 lens usually lives on the d600.   I am definitely a Nikon girl – I […]ReplyCancel

© Azzari Jarrett

My kitchen table is a major source of inspiration for me.  We gather here every night for dinner.  My daughters do homework and arts and crafts here.  And I photograph (almost daily) here.   So many memories!  My most popular captures on instagram are taken on this table.  It was also the muse for my self-published book, On The Table.

Today, I want to share a little more about the actual table itself.

© Azzari Jarrett

I bought the table on a whim at  Nadeau (there are a number of stores around the US).   The paint was falling off of the legs, and the wood was raw and unfinished.  My Dad took one look at it and told me I needed to paint it.  But I felt it was perfect, just the way it was.   I fell in love with the exposed, rough, wood surface.  Added bonus: I’m not concerned with having it “clean” all the time – it shows every ounce of spilled kool-aid, glitter projects gone awry, and coffee cup stains.

© Azzari Jarrett

Every  imperfection is documented on its surface.  I know this would drive some people nuts, but I welcome these imperfections.  It tells the story of our life, and I feel that it adds character to our room.

© Azzari Jarrett

There are two windows surrounding the table, which allows the perfect amount of natural light to spill through.  As you can tell, I like to keep fresh flowers displayed here.  All the time.  This table is truly a perfect background.  I would imagine that someday it will become my worktable, as I can’t see how we will fit a family of 5 here for dinner once my youngest daughter is old enough to sit at the table.

You can see more images I have taken on our table here.

  • rachel del grosso - May 21, 2014 - 10:11 am

    i love it, and agree that it’s perfect just the way it is. lately i’ve been really falling out of love with our kitchen table because there is no character. it’s light wood, but has a glass top, and OH how i hate the glass top. I want it off. I want to spill on the wood and dent it and make it ours, you know?

    your on the table book? i’ve been telling my hubby that i really want it for my birthday in a few weeks. i figure it will help me feel much better about hitting the 30 milestone.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 21, 2014 - 9:32 pm

      Happy early 30th Rachel! The book is not currently for sale anymore, but I will let you know if I release more copies.ReplyCancel

  • cara - May 21, 2014 - 12:16 pm

    our table is much the same because i have the same sentiments as you about it. loved this.ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 21, 2014 - 9:28 pm

      Thanks Cara!ReplyCancel

  • Sharon Caillier - May 21, 2014 - 7:39 pm

    I love your table. Were some of the coffee stains done by me?ReplyCancel

    • Azzari - May 21, 2014 - 9:28 pm

      Yes, some of them are yours!ReplyCancel