SPOOKY STUFF

         I can’t believe how often this happens: I have an idea or subject in mind, and out of nowhere I soon begin to encounter things – intellectually and physically – that have a direct connection to whatever the subject might be.  It could well be coincidence or happenstance, but I like to think of it as synchronicity.  You’ve no doubt experienced it on some level and you’ll agree that it’s an interesting phenomenon.

         Recently, after four days at the National Association of Broadcasters convention in Las Vegas, I was overwhelmed at the speed with which technology continues to evolve.  What was an earth-shattering advance a year ago is now old-hat.  Even more exciting is the tidal wave that’s gathering just over the horizon – absolutely insane.  This isn’t news.  The history of cinematography is an unbroken chronicle of change.  But what really put the hook in for me was the open book I found sitting on my desk when I got home.  I didn’t recall putting it there, but I couldn’t deny what Jackson J. Rose, ASC was trying to tell me.  Synchronicity, indeed…

         In his introduction to the 1955 supplementary printing of the American Cinematographer Hand Book and Reference Guide, he stated:

         “The history of invention teaches us that progress is rapid and continuous when once the right way to do something has been revealed.  It is like climbing an entirely unknown mountain – half the battle is won if we can choose the most practicable route.

         A famous philosopher once said ‘He who goes not forward, goes backward.’  That statement seems especially appropriate to those of us who, either as a profession or as avocation choose to follow photography in any of its different forms, for photography is constantly advancing, and we must advance with it.  New emulsions, new lenses, new cameras, projectors, lights, processes and so much auxiliary equipment are being constantly evolved, and with them new uses of still, motion picture and television photography.  Regardless of how we use photography, or for what purpose, we cannot do it on the basis of yesterday’s data, methods, materials or equipment.”

         Seventy years later and Rose’s words still hold true.  I suspect he’d be very much at home in today’s environment, probably cracking wise at the accelerated pace we take for granted.  But having just been exposed to the sharpest tip of the spear in Sin City, I assure you…you ain’t seen nothing yet!