Location: Sweet Spot East Guadalupe Island
Weather: Vis is Epic 120 plus foot Air Temp 76f Water Temp 69-70f
Gathered on a boat in the middle of nowhere we have some of the most beautiful minds in the photography world. Michael Aw and the living legend that is Ernie Brooks. Two wonderful presentations last night that are empowering water people alike to seek out answers to questions that haven’t been asked. The space that Ernie Brooks occupies is one of positivity, thoughtfulness and hope. He sits on the arm of the couch while his photos light up and fade in a continuous pattern that plays out his life on film. The master gives few words about each photo not of the technique or of boast but of caring and how you, as a single person could change the world around you. His voice still deep, powerful but nurturing. Trying to reach into each person and find the hidden inspiration and bring it to the fore front without recognition of deed. The procession of photos unveils and captures the man himself. His thoughts and beliefs. It brings out what can be possible in each one of us if we dare to imagine. This is his story, history. The music fades in the dim lit room as the guests sitting on the carpeted floor and rest on the couches focus on the sailor, photographer, human. The last pictures finishes it’s burn in a transition from film to screen. The ever present smile of Ernie widens, his hands come together to his mouth as he extends his arms outwardly to everyone in the room to blow a kiss and say thank you. Thank you Mr Brooks for being you. After last nights presentation we gather on the back deck as sharks swim by in the back ground. The cages are all lifted and divers haul out of the cages with their own story to tell and what they have seen. Everyone fits nicely on the new dive deck and everyone takes a serious then a series of funny pictures to mark this time in space. The reason why we are together is the sharks. They bring people together and there were many today. The day couldn’t be much prettier. The seas and winds looks like it will be a smooth sail back into port. The adventure is real and the memories are forever. Come out to share with us in these moments.
