Like dragonflies, there are many species of nature photographers—some prefer to perch in one location for long periods of time, waiting for the action to come to them, while others are in constant motion, aggressively seeking potential prey. As most of you probably suspect, I put myself primarily in the latter group and spend a lot of time walking when I am out in the wild with my camera.
Last week I visited Prince William Forest Park, a hilly, tree-covered oasis that is the largest protected natural area in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region at over 16,000 acres, according to Wikipedia. I have explored this park on numerous occasions and one of my favorite activities is walking on the trails that run parallel to creeks that run trough the park. Normally when I am doing so, I am scouring the shorelines looking for dragonflies and other wildlife.
This time, though, I was in a contemplative mood and was repeatedly struck by the interplay of the light and shadows and by the textures and sounds created by the flowing water. I obviously can’t convey the sounds in still photos, but here are a few photos that capture some of my impressions from my walk along Quantico Creek that day.
I realize that these are quite different from my usual photos and are a bit more “artsy.” It’s fun for me to mix things up a bit from time to time and attempt to photograph some different subjects.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
I love all three of your “artsy” photos, but it is the last one that captivates me.The single floating leaf is reflected so perfectly in the darkness of the water, how exquisite! It is good to allow some change in your life, as your lovely photos demonstrate so well. Thank-you, Mr.Mike!
I’m totally with Ellen, her words give full expression to my thoughts. I suspect that most times you go out, the total experience is much more than the photos you bring back! It’s lovely when you sometimes share some of the “much more” 🙂
I think you know me too well, Liz. I usually share my shots that highlight specific subjects, but, as you suggest in your comment, I also try to capture “ambiance” and “artsy” images that I share less often. Sometimes those attempts work and sometimes they don’t, but it is a lot of fun trying. For what it’s worth, the floating leaf was my favorite of the three photos that I posted, but I feared that it was a bit too abstract for most folks, so I did not lead with it.
Thanks so much, Ellen. In fact, that final photo is my favorite one too. I’ve reached a point where I am comfortable sharing some of my “different” photos. Like with many kinds of art, such photos are almost certain to provoke various responses–realistic images tend to get more popular support.
These are great photos, Mike.
Your wonderful images make me feel as if I were right there with you, Very nice.
And well done too 👏
Good to step out of the box once in awhile … I know see things I wouldn’t when focused on the birds and bugs, and there is a lot to see! That looks like a lovely place to explore. I particularly like the leaf image, too.
Light and shadow. Running water. Some of my favorite topics! Thanks 🙂