Text and Images by Nikolay Bratovanov © 2021

I consider myself rather lucky to have the chance of living very close to where I work, thus avoiding the far from pleasant experience of commuting around overpopulated Sofia. Besides the obvious advantages associated with saving time, cash and stress, walking to work has two other significant benefits to me – keeping myself in good physical shape, and last but not least – having the chance to enjoy the views and atmosphere of a lovely park located nearby the Technical University of Sofia. Being not exactly along my shortest route, I prefer slightly extending the way in order to pass through the park rather than struggle with car/puddle-occupied sideways, aggressive drivers and smoggy streets, which, unfortunately, is the scene that one would most likely encounter when moving around our capital city, especially at rush hour. In contrast, stretching legs around a beautiful and tranquil natural environment (even for a while) not only has a soothing & meditative effect on one’s mind (which makes starting/finishing the day off a much more pleasant experience), but also inspires a person to contemplate the beauty all around us (trees, lawns, colors, textures, shapes, etc.), and eventually to channel this inspiration into a specific form of artistic work.

That’s the actual story/motivation behind the “Analog Autumn” series – no particular plan, no exhaustive preparations, no special in-depth message – just taking the usual route to work on a beautiful October day (with a bulky camera in hand this time), observing the vibrant autumn scenes created by Mother Nature, and reflecting them in the most fascinating to me way. Of course, considering the continuous and random essence of everything Nature has ever designed, what a better way to capture Her unique “analog” masterpieces than using an analog instrument – my favorite medium format Pentax 6×7 film camera with its limited 10 frames per roll!

GALLERY