"Little do we know of the real Cayman."

When we think about Cayman we immediately conceptualize an image of three islands, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac catering primarily to cruise boats, off shore banking golfers and tourists. Little do we know that this is not all there is to these beautiful islands!

Photographers Amanda Lumry and Loren Wengerd along with the collaboration of author Laura Hurwitz have dispelled this perception in their coffee table book entitled Cayman A Photographic Journey Through The Islands.

Scanning through the more than 147-page collection of impressive images we are apprised of a far different view of a landmass that is approximately 1.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.

The photo journey covers a huge range of topics depicting human as well as landscape scenes. You can probably label the collection of images as a view of the other Cayman, distinct from the touristy concept portrayed in travel publications. Real people exist, rather than the models we are so accustomed to seeing in various media.

The photos definitely succeed in making us aware of the beauty of Cayman and the necessity to preserve the heritage, culture, wildlife and habitats.

When I asked Amanda Lumry what was the primary objective of the book, she informed me, "Cayman, increased tourism and offshore banking provide an ever increasing concern for locals trying to maintain their heritage and way of life. We attempted to shed some light on their concerns through our personal interviews. By reading this book, it is our hope that tourists will realize the precious jewel that Cayman is and respect it."

This ambitious photo journey is filled with sharp, clear and selective images that blend local colour with human interest. This is particularly evident when you look at the picture of Captain Paul Hurlston and read about his personal story. There is a kind of sadness in his face that probably can be attributed to the fact that his wife left him three years ago. However, he still holds unto his love letters he saved dating back to 1959. We are informed "he still clings doggedly to a fragment of hope that she'll come back to him, but a weariness and resignation seems to overshadow his faith in marital reunion." The photo image affectionately captures these characteristics to the extent you almost want to reach out and console this Caymanian.

No doubt after reading his book and savouring the photo images the reader will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation of "things Caymanian."

Reviewed by Norman Goldman
Posted November 11, 2002

Summary

Through 216 stunning photos, the authors show the reader typical sights, as well as parts of the Cayman Islands off the beaten path. Not only do they cover gorgeous views from Seven Mile Beach and spectacular underwater photography, but they include as well interviews with thirteen Caymanians, all of which makes this a wonderful keepsake for anyone who has spent even a day on the island. A portion of the book's proceeds are donated to the National Trust for the Cayman Islands.