Photography, in a way, is like love, it appears when you least expect it. Of course, you have to do your part; great photos don’t come knocking at your door! You have to get out there, stay open, be receptive to the opportunities that arise, and believe in them. Sometimes, just when you’ve decided to call it a day and are putting your camera away, something unexpected catches your attention. And in that moment, even if it’s late and the light is far from ideal, you decide to give it a shot and see what comes out of it.
Maybe the result isn’t technically great, it could be a bit dark, even slightly blurred, but despite all that, the image might hold something special that goes beyond its objective quality. And that’s when it hits you: no, it’s not the best photo you’ve ever taken, but you like it. It has more strength and personality than others taken under perfect conditions. You never know how or when you’ll find love, and the same goes for a striking photograph. That’s part of the beauty, the magic of the unexpected, the power of surprise.
Today’s photo was taken near Ferrol. It was already quite late, and the light wasn’t promising for anything decent. Still, I decided to take a different route home, venturing down secondary roads I’d never explored. At some point along the way, I came across an abandoned building, just the kind I love. I got out of the car, planning to take a photo, even if I had to use a very slow shutter speed, knowing the result might end up blurry.
But to my surprise, standing right at the entrance was a goat. Grateful for its calm demeanor and natural flair for posing, I took my time to focus and hold my breath, any slight movement could ruin the shot. I have to admit, it did come out a bit blurry, but still acceptable. And the combination of the goat and the building just works. It’s one of those photos that appeared when I least expected it, under the worst conditions, but I’m glad I took it. Fate has its own sense of timing.
