In these “After Hours” posts, members of the group tell the stories behind the pictures they have posted, and explain what motivates and inspires them. This week we have Andrea Golden who chose this image in June for 12pm:

• Which camera did you use?

I used my Pentax K1000 film camera for this shot with a 50 mm lens. It was gifted to me by a friend who knows that I love to shoot film. When I asked him about the serial number scratched into the back of it, he told me that it was once used by the local sheriff’s department! It is such a reliable camera. Even when using inexpensive Kodak Gold film, I still get great results.

• What do you hope to achieve through the year?

I am just pleased as punch when I get a chance to pick up a camera during my busy days. It is such a respite for me to make time to really look at my surroundings. So often I rush through my daily activities without taking in the beauty and goodness that is present in every moment. It’s something I am trying to improve upon in my life, and photography reminds me to be more still and observe. I especially love when I am able to slow down enough to use one of my film cameras. This takes a different type of care and mindfulness than what is required when using my digital camera. With film, I’ve got to try to get it exactly right before releasing the shutter, and I love the challenge of that!

• Was this a typical day for you?

Actually, yes . . . well, a typical Tuesday anyway. My daughter, who is homeschooled, takes horse lessons from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at our dear friends’ beautiful farm, and every Tuesday I roam around with a camera capturing the ever-unfolding character of the place. I have made friends with all of the animals — so much so that I think they expect to have their photos taken every Tuesday! This hour is definitely a highlight of every week for me.

• Why did you choose to post this photo?

I had a hard time choosing, because the farm is infinitely interesting. But there was something about the color and variety of the chickens and the coop, complimented by the direct high noon light, that appealed to me. And I can hear them clucking when I look at the photograph. Can you?

• Do you usually shoot at this hour or was this new for you?

It is definitely not my favorite time of day to shoot, but the farm experience has really stretched me to photograph at this hour. I find that I am beginning to really enjoy the strong contrast of light and the dark cast shadows.

• Finally, how about a bonus picture?