Life in the time of Covid-19
It’s been seven days since I took the threat of the Coronavirus seriously. Sure, I was keeping up with all the news of the spread of Covid-19 since mid-January. I understood how China was under total lockdown and much of Europe was now taking extensive steps in protecting themselves too. I was doing my very best not to touch my face and was aggressively (and frequently) washing my hands. But, it wasn’t until a press conference on Friday the 13th with our Governor, Tim Walz, that I knew we were in for something much, much bigger.
Last week would have been one of the busiest weeks I’ve had this year. But, by Friday, I had cancelled most of my sessions and practiced some very awkward social distancing for all who entered my studio throughout the week. It was an uneasy time. My job as a photographer depends on me making people feel comfortable but the only words exchanged were about this new global threat. We couldn’t shake hands or high-five. I couldn’t even offer those entering my studio a cup of tea. Everyone was on edge, uncomfortable and, frankly, in a bit of a daze.
Over the weekend I made the decision to stop taking any face-to-face work for Britta the Photographer and my Ekta brand until the majority of this threat has lifted. Obviously, this decision hasn’t come lightly but I have no doubt it is the right decision for my community, my family and the world right now. And while I think the work I do can be important, it’s not essential. We need to protect those who are vulnerable, those who will take care of us, those who feed us and those we love.
Like many of you, my brain has been in a mushy-mush state of shock, constantly in flux between crisis mode and total shutdown. As we enter week two of our new reality, these feelings are starting to pass. Do I know how I’m going to navigate my businesses and family through this? Heck no. And that’s going to have to be okay.
All I can do right now is live day to day. Well, and blog more. This week, I’ve started photographing my family’s life under quarantine and I hope to share our weekly adventure here to document this strange time. In addition, for the last year or so, I’ve been jotting down a long list of blog posts ideas regarding camera gear, some simple photography tips and tricks and loads of random fun. All of which I’ve wanted to share for a long, long time but used the excuse that "I don't have time" to get out of actually doing. Jokes on you, universe. Now I have all the time.
So, stay tuned and be well. Also, don’t leave your house unless you need to.