Meaning: The quote, "I remember being shocked when I came out from under the focusing cloth after a minute or two being submerged within that, at the startling green color of those ferns" by John Sexton, encapsulates the transformative experience of capturing a photograph. John Sexton, an educator and renowned photographer, describes the powerful moment when he emerged from beneath the focusing cloth – a tool used in large format photography – and was struck by the vivid green color of the ferns he was photographing. This quote not only captures the essence of the photographic process but also delves into the emotional and perceptual impact of creating an image.

Sexton's use of the phrase "being submerged within that" conveys a sense of immersion and intense focus that photographers often experience when capturing an image. Under the focusing cloth, the photographer is isolated from the surrounding environment, allowing them to concentrate solely on the scene before them. This intense concentration can lead to a heightened awareness of colors, textures, and details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sexton's description of being "shocked" upon emerging from this focused state underscores the profound impact that the act of photographing can have on an individual's perception.

The "startling green color of those ferns" mentioned in the quote highlights the aesthetic and emotional impact of the photographic process. The use of the word "startling" suggests that Sexton was taken aback by the intensity of the color, indicating that the experience of seeing the ferns through the lens was surprising and powerful. This moment of revelation speaks to the ability of photography to reveal the beauty and richness of the world around us, often in ways that are unexpected and profound.

Sexton's background as an educator further adds depth to the quote, as it implies a desire to share this transformative experience with others. As a photographer and educator, Sexton likely seeks to convey the emotional and perceptual impact of photography to his students and audience. By articulating his own emotional response to the act of photographing, Sexton invites others to consider the profound ways in which the medium can shape our perception and understanding of the world.

In conclusion, John Sexton's quote encapsulates the transformative nature of photography, conveying the intense focus and heightened perception that photographers often experience when capturing an image. The emotional impact of seeing the "startling green color of those ferns" serves as a powerful reminder of the profound effects that photography can have on an individual's perception and emotional experience. As an educator and photographer, Sexton's words invite others to consider the profound ways in which the act of photographing can shape our understanding of the world around us.