The Soul Camera

Union Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. The Camera Centre. We were walking past the shop.

I did a double-take.

I saw it. A Nikon FE2 SLR camera. Mint. It was a reasonable price, too. With a A Nikkor 50mm standard lens.

—Like that one, do you? You don’t need another camera?

Mary, being pragmatic.

—Ah yes love, it’s not about need. Look at it…

I could already “see” the photos I would take. I heard a sigh. Mary, went into the shop.

—C’mon then, let’s see what deal he’ll do us.

I tried not to fall over my own feet. The next bit was a blur. Involving Mary asking about the price. I bought a roll of film, too. Ilford FP4+

The store owner passed me the FE2. That feeling.

I still get it now. When I pick it up. No nonsense, slap some film in. Take photos.

My soul camera.

The store owner packaged it up, added a set of spare batteries and Mary paid.

—Happy Anniversary, she smiled at me.

I smiled back.

I loaded the roll of Ilford FP4+ into the FE2. It was going to be a good day. After coffee, photos happened.

Lots of photos.