iPhone-EyePhone

By Susan Knight

I used to be a decent photographer and I have a decent camera. But, alas, it is not as convenient as my new iPhone. I had said I wanted a camera that was also a phone, but those were way too big to fit in my pocket. So, I settled for an iPhone. It fits in my pocket, but only has a so-so camera. Nevertheless, I use it all day long. I love the convenience.

While walking the dog, or perusing my gardens, I’m so happy I can spontaneously take pictures of my flowers as they bud. . .almost open. . .

 . . .then the next day open all the way. Serendipity!

Last week at the dog park, I marveled at the backdrop provided to us. My eyes took it in. Then I remembered I could take a picture with my iPhone. I wanted to share with my friends back east. I hoped they would be very jealous.

Sandy Dog Park

As I pulled out of the driveway early yesterday, just before the long day of soaking rains, the clouds skirting the bottom of the mountains looked eery. I quickly pulled out my iPhone at six-fifteen in the morning. My own eyes were bleery, but the picture below is clear. I love how the days are longer when summer is nigh.

 Last night, as I got home at about nine-thirty, the clouds cleared and revealed it had snowed in the mountains while it rained in the valley--a common occurrance--but in June? Someone referred to it as “Juneuary.” The picture below was taken through the windshield, through just a bit of drizzle, so it came out blurry. But I like it. It looks kind of like a painting. 

This photo is the same setting as the one above.

Tonight, just as I had decided to write about how much I love living in Utah with its beautiful mountains and skies, my iPhone rang. Number one son was on his way home from work.

“Hey, mom, I just thought I’d call you to tell you to go outside right now and look at the sunset."

I made haste and walked outside. My house faces north, so from my sidewalk I can see east and west. Bright yellows and coral oranges dotted the dark blue, western sky. But I noticed the brilliance fading quickly. I had to hurry to snap mementos of the vibrant display our Heavenly Father painted for us tonight, like He threw color from a brush at a canvas.

Looking west at about 9:00 p.m. Colors fading fast.

 The east reflected the west with an orange tinge to the clouds, still lingering from yesterday’s rain.

Looking east. Colors fading fast.

 Then I looked up.


Above my head.

A kaleidoscope of orange, purple and turquoise blue moved in a circular pattern across the sky right above my head. Beautiful and breathtaking. Beauthtaking.

I realize my iPhone camera can't do justice to the astounding nature all around me at every moment. I take time to let my eyes take it in and let my heart be grateful to my Heavenly Father. I hope I was on the sunset committee in the pre-existence, helping our Savior, the great Creator, who gave His life for us, so we can rejoice in every day we have here on this earth. I pray I am worthy of His sacrifice.

A Janice Kapp Perry song comes to mind: “And now behold, my joy is full.”