Photography on the Run

In Mobile, Nature
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Last year, after watching the Olympics, I decided I really ought to start doing some kind of outdoor exercise. So when September arrived, I dug out my running shoes (which had been gathering dust since the previous time I was inspired by the Olympics, four years earlier) and started the Couch to 5K programme. Although I hated it for the first eight weeks (and I mean seriously hated it), it finally came together in the last four weeks of the programme. Since then I have been running at least 5km at least three times a week.

My running has also opened the way to some new photographic opportunities. I use my iPhone to track my speed and play music, which means I always have a camera with me when I’m running. And because I run first thing in the morning, which is one of the best times of the day to take pictures, there has been no shortage of opportunities. I’ve particularly enjoyed watching the seasons progress over the past few months. I love the sight of a sunrise in the park with a hard frost, or the mist clearing over the river Thames, with the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf in the distance.

I often run with two of my friends, who have been pushing me to run further and faster. When I stop to take a picture, they keep going, and I really have to work to catch up! Running has given me new opportunities to take pictures, and those new opportunities have helped motivate me to keep running. Photography has become part of my exercise routine. Now, if only I could incorporate film photography as well. I’m going to try taking my smallest film camera, my Contax T3, with me one morning.

kirstin

10 Comments

  1. You’ve inspired me! I often take my camera when I walk but I haven’t really given my iPhone camera much of a chance. And I have set a goal of 10,000 steps a day for the month of February. Imagine how much faster that will happen if I run! Hoping for a few beautiful photographs and a month that is the beginning of new health habits, too. Your timing of this post couldn’t be better! Love the views, every single one.

  2. Way to go with your running! I’m an avid runner and take photos when I’m out running. It’s a great way to be aware of your surroundings and commune with nature or the city, taking in all the little details.

  3. Ah, I admire your determination! Running and I have never been a good match. I love the images you’re capturing; morning is the best time for that great light!

    • Thank you. To be honest, running and I have never been a good match before either. We will see how long my knees hold out!

  5. When I was running regularly a few years back, I felt the best I ever have. My unofficial word for this year is accountable and I’m determined to get back to feeling good again. LOVE that you are both running and seeing what’s going by….

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