Meaning: Ansel Adams, a renowned photographer, made this statement to express the profound connection he felt with the subjects of his photographs. The quote reflects Adams' belief that through the act of capturing images, he was able to bring the subjects to life and establish a deep, almost spiritual, connection with them. The reference to "old dry plates of sixty years ago" suggests that Adams was reflecting on the historical and nostalgic nature of photography, as well as the enduring impact of those captured moments.

Adams' words convey a sense of empathy and intimacy with the people and places he photographed, emphasizing his ability to enter their world and experience it as if he were truly present in that moment. This sentiment speaks to the power of photography to transcend time and space, allowing viewers to connect with the past and experience a sense of presence and awareness that goes beyond mere visual representation.

In his statement, Adams also alludes to the idea that the subjects of his photographs, though long gone or changed, continue to exist and resonate through the images he captured. This notion underscores the enduring nature of photography as a means of preserving and immortalizing moments in time. By acknowledging the subjects' awareness of him, Adams suggests that his photography goes beyond simply documenting their physical presence; it also captures their essence and spirit, allowing them to live on through the images he created.

Ansel Adams was known for his black-and-white landscape photography, particularly his iconic images of the American West. His work often depicted natural landscapes, such as rugged mountains, expansive deserts, and majestic forests, but he also documented human subjects and man-made structures with equal reverence and sensitivity.

Adams' approach to photography was deeply rooted in the belief that the camera could be a tool for not only capturing the external world but also conveying the emotional and spiritual essence of a subject. He sought to evoke a sense of connection and understanding between the viewer and the subjects of his photographs, whether they were natural landscapes or human subjects.

Adams' quote reflects his profound respect for the subjects he photographed and his belief in the ability of photography to transcend time and space, fostering a deep sense of connection and empathy with the world around us. It also speaks to his legacy as a photographer whose work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences, inviting them to step into the alleys, rooms, and workshops of his subjects and experience a profound sense of presence and awareness.

In conclusion, Ansel Adams' quote captures the essence of his approach to photography, emphasizing the deep connection he felt with the subjects of his photographs and the enduring impact of his work. His words resonate with a sense of empathy, awareness, and the belief that through photography, the past can be brought to life and experienced in a deeply personal and meaningful way. Adams' legacy as a photographer continues to inspire and remind us of the timeless power of photography to connect us with the world around us.