Thoughts on agriculture & art

So what is a farm girl doing being a photographer??  Good question, one that I have asked myself when struggling to find my balance between the worlds of farmers and artists.  I wish I could share with you my simple answer to this question… but I don’t have one.  Instead I’d like to start by sharing with you some of the things that I love about the worlds of agriculture and art…

Surrounded by fresh air under the open prairie skies. Horses, farm cats, and cows.  Long yet satisfying days filled with growing crops and raising animals.  Getting to continually witness the miracle of new life and be part of the changing seasons.  The honest smells of warm animals and fresh manure, the feel of dirt under your nails and sun on your face.
I grew up on a beef and grain farm in Central Alberta,  immersed in the world of farming, from helping with daily chores to being a member in the local 4H beef club.  I couldn’t get farming out of my blood and I am now married to a farmer; we are passionate about raising cattle, producing healthy local food, and being faithful stewards of the land.

Getting the chance to slow life down, reflect, and remember moments and memories.  Color, composition, and contrast.  Waiting, waiting for the perfect light.  Always looking to find the beauty in whatever is around.  The simplicity yet power of a black and white image.  The ability to help others see their own life in a new way.

I love being able to experience the world of agriculture through my camera’s lens. Seeing how many artistic elements I can find in the everyday things.  Capturing the moments to share with others.  Having these images to look back on in years to come and remember the good ‘ol days.

These sunset photos are from a beautiful spring evening on the farm last week.  It’s been super busy on the farm lately with seeding fields and breeding cows… so it’s the perfect time for me to share this blog post and remind myself that even though I may have moments of going crazy with trying to help on the farm and run my photography business… I’m so blessed and thankful to have both farming and photography in my life!

If you are a fellow farmer and/or artist, I’d love to hear some of your favorites things about agriculture and art.  Please share your thoughts in the comments below!