“Art, is in the eye of the beholder”. The "art" in photography is much more than capturing what I see, it's truly in the art of observing. The way in which light interacts with the scene can make a mundane scene, absolutely exquisite. That said, I’m always searching beyond my first glance for the unique and prized image, such as this one. I love abstract art but not necessarily just the typical obscure type. It’s the photographic pieces created by Mother Nature that I love and when it comes to composing, I don't just consider placement but light, form, colors and textures too.
To produce a well crafted photo that has meaning and conveys a feeling, can be a challenge; yet that is what I strive for. That said, many elements have to be in alignment for that to happen, and it's a lucky day when they do. When it comes to “moody” photographs, soft light and fog are definitely my friends. I love how the soft, diffused morning light reduces the highlights, softens the darks, opens up the shadows and yet make the colors pop. The fog not only adds depth to the scene but it definitely creates a sense of mood or mystery. This photograph was taken while I hiked a trail that started at the Stamp River Provincial Park (14Km’s/8.5 miles north of Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island). The park features moss covered rain forests, rapids, a waterfall and a substantial fish ladder (which allows half a million Coho, Sockeye and Chinook salmon to pass the falls). I parked my RV there for the night and was on the trail well before sunrise; I wanted to get out there before the fog would burn off. Their was a cool and misty breeze that followed the river, and the smell of decaying salmon was noticeably strong. This was bear country, and I knew they’d fattening up for their long winter’s nap so my bear spray was close at hand. What I love about this photograph is it’s sense of mystery and how the cool and warm colors are in harmony throughout the scene. I too love the focal point; the tree and how it’s leaning over the cliff’s edge.
I arrived at Elk Island National Park, in central Alberta, just as darkness took over the landscape. I was hoping to hone in on some Milky Way photography, knowing that the lake and islands would provide some valued interest to the photo. With great anticipation and in the darkness of night, I set out with a my camera gear on my back, bear spray in hand and my puppy Arlo by my side. With the assistance of a headlamp, I walked to Astotin Lake and hiked along the northern lakeside trail. As I walked I noticed some strange noises that seemed to be following me and I could hear some bugling elk and howling coyotes in the distance (admittedly, it was a bit unnerving!). I told myself, “It’s just rabbits and birds, scouring about and the animals are so far away”..... I didn’t linger (lol). Unfortunately though, by the time I got to the spot where I knew the islands, lake and with the Milky Way would align, it had clouded over. All was not lost however because I did get this spectacular photo. In this photo, both the city lights of Edmonton and the blue of evening falling, were very faint but there was just enough light for a 30 second exposure. The addition of these two lovely young ladies (who just happened to be there) added a much needed focal point. I asked if they wouldn’t mind standing still for 30 seconds, and they enthusiastically agreed (I was thrilled, and thankful!). Back in my RV, I enjoyed a hot cup of tea and I reflected on my day. Happiness is truly in the accumulation of micro-moments and with that thought, I enthusiastically planned my next day!
This is one of my all-time favorite photos, in all regards. Forest scenes are generally busy, in that there are so many trees and distractions. That said, Mother Nature made this composition, I just had to see it. Trampling through the forest looking for compositions is not easy but I don't have any complaints because I finding one is truly like being on an Easter egg hunt! I particularly LOVE this photo because it has so many of the compositional elements that I look for, and the light perfect (soft, not harsh). I particularly love the lead in line and how your eye goes around (and around) the tree and not out the frame. I also love this photograph's balance in that it's weighted equally with the central tree being the anchor. There's also a great sense of perception; notice how the background drops off. I named this photograph "Embraced" because the tree appeared to be embraced by the forest and because of the embracing circular path around it. I too noticed that it was flourishing, more so than the other trees, so Mother Nature must be embracing it too. May we all feel, (like this tree) "Embraced".
We often walk through life without paying much attention to the obvious, however with an intent to “see” (beyond a glance) we will discover a world that we never noticed. If I asked you what color shade is, you would likely say it’s black (or grey) however if you pay attention you’ll discover that’s not the case, and this photograph is a prime example. No doubt you’ve noticed how snow looks blue (or pink, or purple); that’s because the snow picks up the colors of the sky. Just like the snow, in this photograph the pale (almost white) colored cliffs behind the saguaro picked up the incredibly vibrancy of the blue sky. When I walked towards this saguaro tree the very first thing I noticed was the color of the shade. Wow!... it made me stop in my tracks! In that moment of wonderment, I noticed three things; the blue colored shade, all the back-lighting, and the vivid greens. When I combined these three things with my composition, I knew that I had a “keeper” and I could hardly wait to get it into post processing! As a matter of fact, I was so excited by the scene that I immediately sent an iPhone shot to daughter before taking this shot with my Sony a7r IV. This photo was taken near Dutchman State Park (just east of Mesa, AZ), at the base of Superstition Mountain; just after a week of rain, which made the sky SO vibrant! *Notice how "fat" the saguaro is? Interestingly, saguaro's retain water, which is key for it's survival.
As darkness filled the floor of canyon, the chilly breeze chased most of the tourists away; it was time to call it a day. It was really quite dark and I should have headed back to my RV but the temptation to stay for this “one last shot” was too great. These colors are somewhat unique for the Grand Canyon but as the sun slowly sets the canyon’s colors change (and surprisingly quickly!). First, the vibrant hues are replaced with a warm glow, then a cool blue and then there’s complete darkness. You can see these varying colors in this photo. There was very little light so I had to use my tripod. I set my ISO/ASA to 640 and my shutter speed at 1/4 of a second. I could tell from the viewfinder that this was going to be a great shot, and a uniquely different one too. That said, I absolutley love how soft this photo is and how very painterly it looks too. I sat in the canyon’s beauty for a while; with my heartfelt thoughts and in appreciation of the many dreams I have yet to live. I named this photo “Grandview Nightfall” because it was taken at Grandview Point at nightfall.
After the sun sets in Sedona, the glowing westerly sky produces a warm and radiant hue on the red rock mountains that surround the area but only for a few minutes, and then it's gone. I arrived prepared and early to wait for that warm glow to appear on Cathedral Rock. There wasn’t a lot of light so I knew I’d have to use my tripod to accommodate a slow shutter speed. I framed the shot and then as darkness drew I checked my exposure settings and adjust them accordingly until finally, the glow appeared! ....and then just like that, it was gone. My patience, perseverance (it was cold!) and determination paid off, I got the prized shot I was hoping for. That said, I equate my sense of joy in photography to an Easter egg hunt and this shot was finding a huge cream filled Easter Egg (minus the calories, lol)! To my naked eye, the sky was black and the shadows in the foreground were black but because of my 5 second exposure (with my Sony a7r iv camera) I able to capture that which I couldn’t see; the result of which you see here. Things I like about this photograph include; the STRONG composition, the subtle colors (or lack thereof), the contrast, the (visible) details in the cliffs (which are almost impossible to see during the bright daylight hours) and how the darkness on the bottom Cathedral rock and the bright of the sky frame this iconic Sedona mountain. This is definitely one of my favorite!
I recently went on a photo shoot to Vancouver Island, with plans to explore the northern section of the island. Mother Nature however had a different agenda; snow and ice (in November!). Vancouver Island is well known as the warmest place in Canada. The province’s capital city Victoria for example, enjoys an average temperature of 10°C, of 50°F. So, to have below freezing temperatures made traveling more challenging; ultimately, I had to change my plans. Not only did my RV need new tires (which I got during my travels) but I also had to consider that my RV wasn’t winterized. Who would have thought I’d have to worry about that in November! That said, I had to winterize my RV before I headed inland, and home. I captured this, my last photo of my trip, on my way home (an hour before I winterized the RV) outside of Abbotsford, BC. I had captured another photo here once before (see "Morning Ballet), so I purposely stopped to see if I could find another composition. The fog was starting to lift so time was of an essence. It was a bit of a scramble (yikes!) but fortunately, I came across this view immediately. I was however tempted to keep exploring but in the end I decided to stay, set up my gear and wait for the sun to (hopefully) illuminate the scene. My wait was worth it! Notice how the sun's rays are merely kissing the scene; it was exactly what I was waiting for. I love this photo; it’s mood, the subtle colors and it’s composition too.
Tofino, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve of British Columbia, are characterized by the wild natural scenery; ancient rain-forest, vast sandy beaches (which offer year-round surfing), many hiking trails, a paved 43 km. (26 mile) paved biking trail and many fine shops, hotels and restaurants. I spent 5 days in Tofino, in hopes of shooting some stormy sea and sky photos. Although the storms never developed, on this day there was a high surf advisory, so off I went in search of some waves. Not being very familiar with the ocean, I was somewhat intimidated by its mighty strength and roar. I spotted these ocean birds (called Brandt's Cormorants) silhouetted on this rock from quite a distance, noting their sleek necks and rounded bellies as I walked towards them. I climbed the boulders to get to this view (with one eye on the ocean!). Once I found my composition, I was waited for the "big" wave; I keeping one eye on the ocean so I wouldn't be swept in. Using my 100 to 400 Sony zoom lens I was able to capture this photograph. As I waited, I remembering comparing my fear of the ocean to theirs and envied their agility. That said, fear got the best of me and once I got this shot, I was out of there! Quick Brandt's Cormorants facts: They are expert divers and can swim more than 200 feet in pursuit of fish and shellfish. They're an aggressive bird. They migrate each year from Alaska to Mexico and are very common and widespread. Brandt's sports a vivid cobalt-blue throat patch and eyes during breeding season. They have wispy white feathers on the head, which you can't see in this photo.
The difference between taking a photo and making a photo is the intent, the vision and passion (or in my case, sometimes my obsession, lol!). A lot of effort that goes into a photo-shoot, yet sometimes I don’t get single shot. That’s the reality of the photography but I enjoy the challenge, and the rewards. Often times, my capture just doesn't seem match my vision, while other times my it exceeds my expectations (that's always a bonus!). There are many types of thought-provoking photography but lately I’ve been aspiring to more expressive photography, that have an emotional attachment. Bright, warm and colorful images are generally happy, gleeful images that put a smile on your face, while the more dreary, foggy and cool images are more calming and peaceful. On the other hand, many dark images evoke a sense of melancholy or even dread (which I’m not a fan of). This photo was taken at Little Qualicum Falls, on Vancouver Island, and although it was beautiful, I found it difficult to find a composition. It was raining, and I thought I got skunked until I came across this smaller, more intimate scene. The highlighted green moss caught my eye first, and then the cool mist; which adds depth and a calming and mysterious mood to the overall image. This image belongs to Mother Nature; it's her composition, just waiting to be noticed. 🙂
As a beginner, I use to give composition very little thought, and most of my photos were grand scenes but now, I find myself finding great pleasure in finding and composing more intimate scenes, like this one. Although this type of photography isn't for everyone my photographic journey is for "me"; my soul and my healing. I'm in my element when I'm out exploring, and all my worries disappear. There, I'm at one with Mother Nature and I know she means me no harm. That said, I'm also there to represent her through my photography for all to see, experience and (hopefully) inspire in some way. I often think of those of you whom (because of your physical limitations), can't experience her, and for that I am sorry but I hope that just for a moment, you're there with me. Yes, it's (tearfully) lonely at times but I don't feel nearly as lonely when I'm out on the open road, and exploring Mother Nature. I named this photography "A Graceful Descent" because it represents my journey. We fall, we get up and we grow again! :-)
Finding and planning photographic locations takes time (sometimes multiple visits) and physical effort but the rewards often yield some amazing photographs! The physical effort however doesn’t seem like a chore when I’m engulfed in my passions (early morning starts, cycling, hiking and photography); it’s then that I’m in my “happy place”! What could possibly be more fun than searching for spectacular locations, and then later have a prize photograph to go along with the memory! That said however, both weather and lighting play such a big roll and sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate but oftentimes I end up with the most amazing unexpected shots! This photograph has such a story. I had been searching for quite some time for a desert scene that wasn’t cluttered with desert debris (the overgrown desert and the fuzzy bushes (as I call them!). The overgrown vegetation often fills the entire foreground scene which stops the viewer’s eye from traveling through the photograph. That said, I was thrilled to find this location with its uncluttered foreground and strong composition. Notice the diamond shape of the predominant shadow and how your eyes follow its lines to the cholla and ocotillo. Then the ocotillo leads your eye up and back over to the top of the rocks; creating a circular path for your eyes to travel. The other thing I like is the combination of darks and lights. The shadows and highlights (which is often referred to as the darkest darks and the brightest whites) are complimentary in any photograph or painting. I found this location on an early morning bike ride at Brown’s Desert Ranch (a hiking/biking area in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale) but unfortunately the best light was long gone so I made a mental note to return. That said, checking the next day’s weather forecast is always a big part in planning my photography shoots and although (on this day) it was more overcast than I had expected the sun did poke through occasionally; just enough to get this shot!
My recent travels included a visit to my late husband's family in Mission, BC. and being an early riser I set out before sunrise to explore the many back-roads behind Mission and Deroche, BC. I didn't have my Jeep with me (I often pull it behind my RV) so I cruised around in the comfort of my RV. I sit quite high in it, so I see so much more than most in their vehicles do; including this silhouetted fisherman. There were well over 100 people fishing on the shores of the Nicomen slough, and they all seemed to constantly reeling in their lines with catches.... Hmmm? Being curious, I stopped to chat with a gentleman and he proceeded to tell me that they're all fishing for Coho Salmon and that their limit (government enforced) was two. "I got my two", he said. I then asked him, "Being that they're spawning, are they any good to eat?", to which he replied, "The Coho are fine, but you don't want to eat the Chum salmon, we release them". This photo was a bit tricky to take and to process (raw file) because the scene is both brilliant and dark. I enjoyed the challenge, and love the result! We can learn much by exploring, asking questions and stepping outside my comfort zone. Where to next!?
Copper Island, which is located in Shuswap region of south-central British Columbia, is the pride of Shuswap Lake. It was given that name because of it’s copper color however the Shuswap people (Secwepemc, pronounced suh-Wep-muhc), who were the first to inhabit these lands, named it Cemete’tkwe, in their Secwepemctsin language. In 1956 Copper Island became a Provincial Park and is busy with sun worshipers (summer, lol), hikers and boaters alike. To capture this image, in the way I had envisioned it, took some planning. I wanted the lake to look smooth (rather than choppy) so I needed to reduce my shutter speed; which required a density filter (which reduces the amount of light from entering my camera). With a slow shutter speed of 2 seconds, I had to use a tripod. I also wanted to include the foreground, so my camera was only 1 foot off of the (cold!) ground. This photograph is a good example of how colors (along with density) help to create depth in an image. Cool colors tend to reseed whereas warm colors come forward; you can clearly see that in this image. Notice the warmth (yellows) of the foreground and the cool colors (blues) in the background. Once I got this shot, I high tailed it back to the warmth of my Jeep! Welcome winter!
Each time I take a photo I consider it’s composition, which simply put is the arrangement of the elements in the viewfinder. Unlike a fine art painter, a photographer doesn’t have the luxury of moving that tree, or that mountain so considering all compositional aspects before I press the shutter button, is extremely important. There are many compositional grids and guidelines but generally speaking most use “the rule of thirds”. In this photograph however, I used a diagonal grid guideline and it’s actually that pattern that drew me to this scene! Take a moment to notice the many triangles in this photo (including the trees). Then notice too how I placed the two prominent trees in dead center, and how many of the triangular lines lead your eyes to those trees. It’s not very often that such a unique composition will present itself; Mother Nature did a great job composing this shot for me…. all it took was noticing it. :-) “Beauty can be seen in all things. Seeing and composing the beauty is what separates the snapshot from the photograph”.
So, "What's so great about Tofino?", you ask. This! Known for its sandy beaches and old-growth rain-forest, Tofino attracts surfers, nature lovers, campers, whale watchers, hikers, bikers, boaters and fishermen alike. Whether you want to get close to nature, or be pampered, Tofino has it all. There are many fine restaurants, hotels, gift stores and many fantastic art galleries too (being an art lover, I went in them all!). While in Tofino, I stayed in an ocean front RV resort, that wasn't too far from the downtown core. From there I cycled the many lengthy, paved pathways and I strolled along the resort's beach too (Arlo, my 7-month-old puppy loved it, and so did I!). Capturing an epic ocean, sunset shot was on my bucket list, so every evening I'd check the horizon for those perfect sunset cloud formations. On this evening, I noted that the clouds were be lining up and forming perfectly, however my hopes got squashed when the marine layer (clouds) formed along the horizon. I thought I got skunked but..... read on. I got a few shots of a rather boring sunset before I turned away. Walking back to my RV, someone suddenly came up from behind me and said, "You should see the sunset now!" and with that, I did an about face! Back at the beach, the sun was peeking through a small opening in the clouds, and it was just a sliver! Knowing that time was of an essence, I quickly set my camera to capture the sun's rays and started shooting in repetition. The sunset lasted seconds! For all the photos I (unfortunately) miss, I'm fortunate to get others; a photographer's reality.
This photo was taken at Bartlett Lake, a reservoir lake located north-east of Scottsdale and slightly north of Rio Verde, Arizona. Popular with anglers and campers, it’s quite unique lake with rugged mountains surrounding it and saguaros growing along its shoreline. Sometimes, we photographers have to be very persistent; I went to Bartlett Lake 4 times to get this shot! It was a 45 minute drive from my RV so I left early (in the darkness of night) so that I’d be there before the sunrise. The first time I went, I chose to go on a day when there was snow on the mountain tops but unfortunately the combination of cloud cover, rain and the (icy cold) winds made it impossible to get any kind of shot. On my second attempt I didn’t have much luck either. I was disappointed by the dark and dreary sky so I spent the morning hiking and searching for future compositions; so it wasn’t a total loss. Eventually I found this one and vowed to come back on a sunny day. The next time I went, everything was perfect until I had a run in with a *Cholla, and it won…. Ouch! So, that quickly ended that photo shoot! Regardless, I wasn’t going to give up and with visions of this pre-planned composition in mind, I head out there for yet another visit. Finally, I got the shot I was hoping for! A Chollas are a desert plant that are completely covered with barbed needles. They are also known as a Jumping Cholla, for its habit of jumping (rolling) along the ground in the wind. They easily fall off their mother plant and then have a tendency to “jump” (if you will) on to the skin or clothing of a passerby…. it’s pure 100% OUCH! I must say this was on of my most “painful” shots! LOL
*Photographer's Note: This photo is comprised of three individual photos and is a large file. This image can be blown up to a very large size. Cadomin is a hamlet in the west-central area of Alberta. It's quaintly nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is approximately 50 kilometers south of Hinton, and just east of Jasper National Park. This operating coal mine community was once home to over 1000 people but now is home to only 55. I was SO excited to be back in the Rockies and I felt very fortunate that I arrived on such a BEAUTIFUL day. That said, to say I was “excited” was an understatement! I was invigorated by the mountain air, the beauty that surrounded me and the freedom my RV lifestyle. I arrived in Cadomin just as the morning sun crested and filled the valley floor. The golden light on this pond was astonishing, and I knew it would be short lived so I had to hustle to capture it! I love the dominating fall colors in this photo but what I love the most are the lead in lines and how your eyes follow the shoreline, and then settles in the vivid reflection of the pond (called “the settling point”). At day’s end I reflected upon the day; with my happy energy radiating, many wonderful things came my way. A change in one’s attitude, is golden. So, I named this photograph, "A Golden Life" (attitude is golden). 🙂
While in Tofino, British Columbia, I stayed in my RV at an ocean front RV resort and had the pleasure of enjoying this beautiful beach. On this blustery morning, I decided to stay close to my RV home and while out for my morning stroll with Arlo (my Aussiedoodle), I managed to capture this shot. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and old-growth rain-forests, Tofino attracts surfers, nature lovers, campers, whale watchers, hikers, bikers, boaters and fishermen alike. Whether you want to get close to nature, or be pampered, Tofino has it all. There are many fine restaurants, hotels, gift stores and many fantastic art galleries too (being an art lover, I went in them all!).
I recently attended an amazing photography conference in Pincher Creek Alberta, where there were a number of speakers that covered a variety of photographic topics; I was in my element! Although I was primarily there to hear Viktoria Haack and Adam Gibbs speak (two renowned BC photographers who’s style and genres I admire), I actually enjoyed all the speakers and presenters. Their work, combined with their shared wisdom, was inspiring; so much so that it inspired me (personally) to dive into some new (to me) genres. That said, I was particularly interested in the discussions that pertained to astrophotography (including aurora borealis), wildlife photography and Black & White photography; just to mention a few. When I left the conference I decided to concentrate on black and white for a while, so imagine my delight when I came across this old farmhouse (not far from Pincher Creek). At first, I was merely fixated on the old abandoned homestead but as I walked around I noticed all the amazing leading lines which added to the overall composition. Considering the subject, I knew this photograph would look amazing in black and white; by naturally adding a sense of mood, mystery and age.
Light is an important component of all photography, and to me it’s the MOST important element in landscape photography. That said, searching out unique lighting conditions often means I'm up early and/or up late (I bundle up!). I camped in a provincial campground near Clearwater, BC, were the heavy morning fog typically covers the valley floor. When I woke up, I immediately peeked out the window to evaluate the weather conditions and noticed the sun was just starting to break through. I knew I had to hustle, and within 5 minutes my RV was packed and I was on the road. I headed to a local the golf course, where I hoped the open fairways, fog, trees and the (peak-a-boo) sun would produce some interesting lighting conditions. I was drawn to this simplistic composition (love it!), The tree definitely dominates the scene and demands the viewer's attention. I love how it stands out so beautifully against the many cool colors of the morning fog. The tree trunks on the left, add balance, contrast in an interestingly an abstract way. I called this image “A Foggy Start” not only because it's a foggy morning scene but because of its location (a golf course).
“Bridge Together”, our connection to Mother Nature. When I’m embraced by Mother Nature, I feel a refreshed, grounded and in the moment; I’m at peace. In these trying times, Mother Nature's beauty is so refreshing and her spirit is infectiously calming. There's something therapeutic in meandering in her presence and although I can't truly capture her in my photographs, I try to capture both her essence and my connection. She is vast and choosing what to include in a photograph is a uniquely personal decision however as a photographer, I have a lot to consider. What’s the focal point? Where should I place the focal point. What’s taking my eye away from it? That said, choosing what not to include is more important than choosing what to include. I made a conscious decision to omit the forest on the left side of this frame. Together with the lead in angle of the trees, your eyes are led across the bridge and out of the photograph; which makes you wonder, “What’s on the other side of the bridge?”. Even though we don’t know what’s on the other side of that bridge we know it serves a purpose, to unite (hence this photo's name, “Bridge Together”).
Recently, after months of building my photography business, I took a break from my creative passions (business and photography). In that time I recognized my need to keep busy and how very blessed that I am to be able to do what I love. As I was driving my motorhome one early and chilly morning, I saw this bridge view over some shrubs (thanks for the higher perspective of the RV). I continued to drive past for well over 5 minutes while I debated whether or not I should turn around. Obviously, I turned around (and I’m glad I did!). I had noted a spot that I could park my RV but I hadn’t noticed just how high the vegetation surrounding this pond was. Fortunately however I found a trail that lead to the shore of pond (how lucky!). As I was setting up my camera gear I noticed these two Canadian geese casually swimming towards my planned composition. I hurriedly increased my shutter speed (to capture their movement) and waited for them to arrive at this planned position. Almost as though on cue they posed for me! This photograph was my very first photo after this break and I felt so rewarded!
While visiting Tofino recently (Vancouver Island, BC), one of my goals was to capture a few epic ocean sunsets. As each day drew to a close, I surveyed the sky in hopes for that epic shot. Fortunately, just as my stay drew to a close, the weather gods awarded me with this astonishing scene. Although there aren't a lot of vibrant colors in this photograph, I love its subtlety. The lack of vibrancy not only adds to its overall softness but it also evokes a sense of calm, peace and tranquility. I have no idea who the gentleman is that's gazing over the ocean but believe me, I sure was excited to see him walk into the scene; with him in the frame, the photograph bears a sense of depth and scale. I find his (reflective) stance quite interesting, in that it makes me wonder what he's thinking about, and that's why I named this photo "At One With The Ocean" *Tofino is known for its sandy beaches and old-growth rain-forest, Tofino attracts surfers, nature lovers, campers, whale watchers, hikers, bikers, boaters and fishermen alike. Whether you want to get close to nature, or be pampered, Tofino has it all. There are many fine restaurants, hotels, gift stores and many fantastic art galleries too (being an art lover, I went in them all!).