Calm before the storm

The last photography post of mine was about how I attempted to capture lightning for the first time using long exposures with the camera. It was an absolutely joy to see them result in some cool images, and was something I'd love to do again. And I think it shows that there really isn't anything I wouldn't want to shoot. Photography of ant sort being something I just really love doing. Down to the point where hours before trying to capture the lightning of that storm, I was outside exploring into the evening and in search of new compositions in an old area that would've once housed the workers of a massive industrial area in Arabkir, Yerevan.

This was a few hours before the storm really rolled in. The winds had picked up massively though the warmth of the day remained. It was an odd atmosphere to be in, given there was still no rain. No signs of the upcoming storm beyond the dark gloomy clouds that lingered off into the horizon. Walking around that golden hour light, watching the sun reflect a strong tone from the old windows and balconies of old buildings. A remote location and by that time of day you could already tell the life in the area had dwindled. Walking through such an old environment feels strange, it feels like it's an area you weren't meant to see, roaming through untold stories that sit waiting to be discovered.

Of course I couldn't help but photograph the beautiful roses within the area. Gardens are one thing that do tend to still display quite a lot of life, either naturally or from the fact that these gardens tend to produce a bit of food for those nearby. Usually growing a few vegetables or greens throughout the summer months. Some people grow apricots or pomegranates though it's not quite the season for either just yet. And as people age, the farming side of things becomes a bit more of a chore. Those farm gardens become regular gardens, full of beautiful roses. Though the storm soon began to threaten its presence, sudden flashes of lightning. Signs that it hadn't fully gone away from the previous hour; where it had hailed down upon the streets, leading to all flocking indoors.

Pushed to do the same, ending up in a nice cafe. The last time I was here was for moving into the area, carrying a large amount of bags and having the workers look at me like I was a bit weird. It's a nice place, and watching (as well as hearing) the hail land on the cars, rooftops, and the street to the side was quite relaxing. Alongside something I haven't had in a long time: Vietnamese coffee. Dripped over condensed milk and incredibly rich in sugar. Not something you can have often, but for some reason it spoke to me.

And even with the strength of the storms to follow, the evening was quite a peaceful one. A walk through different areas, some coffee, and generally just accepting the time passing. I love that about Armenia, the pacing of the lifestyle, the simple days where the hours go by but you feel fine with it, where the atmosphere is generally rather relaxed. Perfect for enjoying some days of photography.