I captured this photograph on 35mm film in a rural part of Maine in October 2022.

I spent most of my childhood years in Maine, and this trip was my first time visiting since 2013. I had wanted to return for a long time. Returning to my childhood home to capture fall foliage was an experience like no other. The crisp autumn air, the vibrant colors of the leaves, and the memories of my youth all came flooding back as I cruised these country roads with my camera sitting shotgun.

The process of capturing these environments on film added an extra layer of nostalgia and romance to the experience. The limitations of film, such as the need for careful composition and lighting, forced me to slow down and really consider each image. This adds an extra level of intentionality to my photography and allows me to appreciate the beauty of the natural world around me fully.

Autumn in New England is truly breathtaking, and in my opinion, Maine is the pinnacle of this aesthetic. Dozens of small towns left largely unchanged over the years, with hundreds of miles of rugged and remote coastline, and the general feeling that life is a little slower. The oranges, yellows, and reds of the trees contrast beautifully against the deep blue of the sky. The way fog envelops every morning as you wait for the sun to burn it away.

The familiar sights and smells brought back memories of playing in the woods with my friends, visiting local farms and orchards, and exploring the many small towns that dot the state. Capturing these memories on film made the experience even more special.

The combination of nostalgia, natural beauty, and the process of film photography made for an unforgettable trip. I came away with not only beautiful images but also a renewed appreciation for the place I once called home.