Originally from NE Ohio, now living in North Dakota. I have been fortunate to travel over the years, and take a lot of pictures along the way. My interest in photography started in the mid 70s, with a 610 film camera, followed by a 110 pocket camera, a couple of polaroid instant cameras and then into the 35mm world. First my dad's old Petri, then my first "real" camera, a Pentax ME super. I hauled that one around for years, from my hometown in Ohio, to the 2 years I lived in Japan to a couple other states I've lived in, I put a lot of milage on that Pentax for 20 years. Then into digital with a couple of cheap 1 and 2 megapixel cameras, then digital SLRs, a compact Canon g15 and the handy iPhone. (The best camera is the one you have with you).
for many years I used only the iPhone as I no longer had time for photography only outings and I always had it with me. lately however I began the joy using my dslr again, its not just the finished product, its the experience of taking the photo. just like enjoying the comforting ritual of playing a vinyl record versus listen to a steaming service. while there are varying opinions of quality, the experience will never be the same. convenience and joy sometimes aren't the same thing. having said that I'll still use the phone when that convenience is needed, another tool.
I believe editing is just as much part of the craft as framing the shot. I see a lot of well framed shots online that don't get my attention because they seem bland. even more extreme editing to make a surreal or artificial looking image is ok at times if it's presented with that purpose, just like an abstract painting. mostly though, I try to stay true to the hobby that is photography. I love rich colors and high contrast dramatic black and white. the Lightroom dehaze tool is my best friend. maybe sometime I'll figure out how to turn it into a side-gig, but fun comes first.
thanks for visiting!
Bob