Sometimes, photographs find me before I find them.
I love when this happens because despite its frequency, it’s always an exhilarating experience that I don’t mind telling you is addicting in the best way.
There’s a 1.5 mile bike path near my old house in my hometown of Rockford, IL. My wife and I would go there often during the spring, summer, and fall months each year to walk/run (in that order).
(It used to be the inverse of run/walk, but things change you know)?
I’ve passed by this spot multiple times over the years, but something about it this day caused me to pause.
There’s an implicit sense of serenity there.
Something coming from it, called me to it. You know what I mean?
I liked the inward-leaning angles of the trees, and lay of the natural debris.
It all seemed to play together in some sort of silent harmony.
This was one of the first times I used a bit of HDR post-processing. I’ve used it very sparingly over the years, but still feel it’s an interesting and worthwhile enhancement tool for some occasional situations and subjects.
For me, photography is less about gear and tools, and more about experiences, feelings and insights gleaned.
“The only way to live is by accepting each minute as an unrepeatable miracle.” — Storm Jameson
As a photographer, “unrepeatable miracle” is a perfect descriptor of what I’m after every time I pick up a camera.
We’re specks of sand on a rock/star speeding through space.
It’s a mathematical miracle we’re even here right now to contemplate this.
“There’s time, but there’s no more time to waste.” — Bobbi Leu
Because everything moves so fast. So furious.
Including you and me.
Slowing down.
Smelling the air.
“Seeing things” as they truly are, for what they are.
Because sometimes, that which appears ordinary, with extra effort and vision, often proves extraordinary after all.
What might you really see when peering at your forests through the trees?
Stay tuned-in…
Behind the Shot: A collection of photography shorts sharing an image’s backstory, a relevant quote, and some useful ideas inspired by each to hopefully inspire you.