My last roll of Cinestill 800T got saved for a neon-lit bus stop in a downpour. The halation from the wet signs looked like something out of a noir movie. I almost never shoot color at night, but that rain changed my whole plan. Sometimes the weather isn't just a factor, it's the main character.

My first good portrait was a total accident.

That "tiny plastic burr from the factory" is the perfect example. I see this everywhere now, where a small, dumb manufacturing flaw creates a huge time sink. It's like the universe's way of reminding us that most problems aren't complex, they're just a piece of plastic in the wrong place. You feel like you're going crazy until you spot the one thing that's actually wrong.

Honestly, that's the whole point of film though, right? You took a risk and it paid off with a specific look you couldn't buy. I'd only play it safe for a job where you absolutely know what you need.

Wait, you got an $80 tent to last eight years? I mean, I've had way more expensive stuff fall apart after like two seasons. That's honestly wild.