Making the Most of Commuting Time

I started a new job recently, which means a commute for the first time in about 10 years. From Jersey City into Manhattan, on the Path train under the Hudson River and with a short walk at each end.

Mostly I listen to music, for enjoyment and relaxation but also with the aim of discovering more music that I enjoy most. Podcasts too: ‘Show Don’t Tell’ and ‘The Movie Proposal’ are two current favorites about movies and filmmaking.

But there’s definitely an opportunity to be creative and productive too. I’ll write a little on the train, but I’ve started bringing the Sigma FP and 45mm lens with the idea of doing a little street photography each day in Manhattan. It’s only a few blocks from 5th Avenue to 9th, but that includes Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, so that means plenty is usually going on, morning, evenings and lunchtimes.

I can feel myself starting to enjoy street photography again, starting to rediscover a confidence and rhythm. Maybe helped by growing familiarity with the locations too, getting to know the colors and the light and the patterns. It feels fun again, just having a camera in hand and trying to be ready for an opportunity if it comes along but not being frustrated if it doesn’t.