From time to time, work takes away my energy completely, to the point that I don’t even have motivation for hobbies that I enjoy so much, much more than even the best achievements in my work. 2022 and 2023 were such periods. 2022 was filled with excitement of personal growth, along with my project taking off after years of effort from a team that went from 2.5 people to more than 30. Thing took a sharp turn towards the end of 2022, and 2023 became much of a year with chaos, turbulence, uneasiness and sadness. Luckily, things are getting much better now. So, let’s get back to photography. But first, let’s take inventory of the single roll of film that I took in 2022, and we’ll follow this up with another singular roll in 2023.

Kodak Portra 800

After finishing my last roll of Fujicolor Pro 400h, which has long ceased production, I was actually trying to get back to Portra 400, though, due to the scarce supply, I only got hold of this ISO 800 roll. I must say I enjoyed the slight bump in low light capabilities.

These both were taken from the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in NYC near the Google office. I basically tagged along my wife’s business trip for a few nights of free hotel.

These two really show case what I enjoy film the most – its ability to keep details in high lights. Indoor with skylight would have been challenging, but the result was just beautiful.

Here comes my favorite photo of the roll. I just like how film renders the highlights.

The remainder of the roll was filled with early spring Boston views.

There it is. Winter has to end. Spring always arrives. Things brighten up.