When Inspiration Sneaks In

Since the trip to Redfish Lake, I haven’t been able to create photographically. Between the end of the short summer semester, the launch of the online shop, the crazy heat, thunderstorms, and wildfires, I have tried to stay indoors. That doesn’t mean I haven’t been stretching my creative muscles, though. I made some folio scrapbooks for my family, finished a few card kits, and watched a lot of videos.

A post from a fellow photographer inspired me. Shutter Monkey created a patch. I love his patch and will have to buy one when I see him again. I decided I wanted a patch for ScrimpyArts—and that turned into a few days of brainstorming. What would I put on a patch? A photo fox, of course!

I am pleased to introduce the newest member of the ScrimpyArts team, Sage. I feel like she is more of a guide than a mascot.

Sage is curious, artsy, crafty, outdoorsy, and usually looking for what might be around the next bend. She loves wildlife, landscapes, dark skies, and probably has a hard time believing that “one more shot” actually means one more shot. She carries too much camera gear, doesn’t mind getting a little dusty, and is always ready for the next road trip. In other words, there is probably a little more of Sage in me than I originally thought.

After many hours of contemplation over the best name for our photo fox, we settled on Sage. She loves the smell of Idaho sagebrush, the beautiful purple blooms of Russian sage, and her favorite colors are greens.

That red fur looks great with her favorite green field hat and photo vest. She likes to toss in a little royal purple as a nod to the flowers she loves. Cargo pants are a necessity—to make sure the truck keys are secure and she doesn’t permanently lose another lens cap.

Sage has also picked up some good habits from the photographers who came before her: pack a snack, carry plenty of water, bring the tripod, and be prepared to stay a little longer than planned. Some lessons are worth passing along.

And yes, the patch that started all of this is actually happening. I commissioned one Sage patch to see how she translates from the screen to something I can put on my camera bag. At a little over $15 after shipping and tax, I’m not quite ready to order a whole litter of them, but I’m excited to see how the first one turns out.

There are already some Sage stickers on the way, featuring her out doing what she loves in some suspiciously perfect, painterly landscapes. I haven’t decided yet whether the stickers will eventually make their way into the ScrimpyArts shop or become a little gift tucked into orders.

Please join me in welcoming Sage to the ScrimpyArts family. I have a feeling you’re going to fit right in.