The Toy Exercise

This exercise is described as follows:

The concept is to take 5 photos that somehow captures the meaning of “Toy” in some way, whether abstract or concrete, figurative or literal, physical or mental.

“Toy” can refer to something emotional, mental, spiritual, or physical. Objects or experiences — tangible or imagined — that spark joy, curiosity, or comfort. They may soothe the soul, challenge the mind, heal the heart, or engage the body. Whether playful distractions or meaningful tools, toys help us explore, express, and connect — with ourselves, others, or something greater.

“Toy” can refer to something material. Vehicles are often referred to as “Big Boys Toys.” Or you can be literal and raid your child/grandchild/niblings toy box — perhaps finding a stash of Barbies from when you were little (or a Gene Simmons doll), huge, noisy toys that drain batteries faster than a vampire can drain a human, DIY science toys that mash into your carpet and become permeant fixtures that you’ll laugh about one day.

Toy can refer to something in nature, the universe, or the life cycle. Nature is full of toys, feathers, rocks — they don’t beep or need batteries, instead they move, twirl, and float.

“Toy” can refer to food or drink. Does your cat toy with her food? DO you? The cocktail umbrella is the toy of the drinks world — serving no real purpose except as a decoration. And yet, it makes you feel like you’re on holiday even if you’re just in your backyard wearing pjs and bed socks.

“Toy” is YOU and your perspective. It represents the meaning of “Toy” in some way or form, from your viewpoint — that connects to your photo and story. To quote Buzz, toy can be interpreted “to infinity and beyond!”

Finally post the 5 photos and tell their stories in 10 words. That is 10 words for each photo.

1.

Everything You Do, Doesn’t Need To Be Seen, Or Heard

Photography, arts, literature, music -recorded/live - the invisible man

3.

Green lanes in the UK are unpaved, unsurfaced public highways,

4.

Road Running /Runner a gift from my old running club

5.

My new boots, these are made for my wandering discoveries.

Thank you Jon (@jonpinter) for creating such an interesting challenge, it became slightly autobiographical! I might have stretched the remit on picture 2! But it captured a moment and symbolises a lot of things.

Thank you