old door

 
I have this thing for old doors. I initially thought it was because of the great weathered texture they exhibit, and the imperfections they’ve earned enduring the hardships of the years. But I’ve decided that this is only part of my attraction to these grand solid portals. What I’m most intrigued by is their mystery……the stories they hold of the occupants they allowed in, those they kept out, and those that ultimately departed.

When I started my portrait business I picked up an old door at a flea market thinking it would be an interesting backdrop for subjects. I did use it some in the beginning, but haven’t in years. In part because it is so darn heavy I can’t move it to areas of better lighting, but more because it is a door out of context……it doesn’t belong propped up against the side of my house. It leads to nowhere and has lost it functionality. It is a door in retirement.

So when I stumbled across this old romantic door recently I was anxious to photograph it even though it was the middle of the day with less than ideal lighting and required my standing in the middle of the street to get the shot. Looking through my viewfinder I liked imagining who was welcomed through it…….the joy filled homecomings and tearful kisses goodbye that occurred on its threshold. If this door wasn’t quite so distant from my home I would return on another occasion to observe and photograph it more thoughtfully, and listen ever-so-closely for any secrets it may impart.

 

~Cynthia