“Do not let your difficulties fill you with anxiety, after all it is only in the darkest nights that stars shine more brightly.”
― Hazrat Ali Ibn Abu-Talib A.S
Hmm, this sounds like the title for a love story involving some damsel and some adversary.
This single daisy shone like a beacon in the distance, against the dark forest, as I turned a bend in the trail a few days ago. It was so singularly bright that nothing else registered to me. As I neared, a few background details started to emerge in my vision, but it was still that single, brilliant daisy that dominated.
I was hoping to capture that brilliance and singularity in this photo and I believe I have. My camera allows me to set ‘center-weighted exposure’ to an 8mm diameter, though it’s not a go-to setting for me. I do, however, have it set in my camera menu for the odd time I use it, as in this image. This allowed me to set exposure correctly for the bright white petals, while keeping the background near black, still showing some of the green stem.
In reflecting back on the image, it looks like a rend in the forest’s cloth of darkness.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 200mm
1/400 sec, f/10.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
This week’s submission to Norm 2.0‘s Thursday Doors.
I was out a few weeks ago, walking Toronto’s Bloor Street West, looking for photo opportunities. The doors pictured above belong to St. Paul’s Church and I had stopped to photograph just the door earlier in the day.
As I was walking back to my car, I noticed this gentleman standing outside the church, very focussed on his cell phone. The title “Call from Above?” just struck me as funny and somehow appropriate.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 200 mm
1/60 sec, f/4.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“If you wish to make anything grow, you must understand it, and understand it in a very real sense. ‘Green fingers’ are a fact, and a mystery only to the unpracticed. But green fingers are the extensions of a verdant heart.”
― Russell Page
Are they boots for the garden or boots as a garden? These retired boots are part of a whimsical garden display at Burlington’s Royal Botanical Gardens. They caught my attention as a bit of a play on words and pictured them on a greeting card for a gardener, which is most likely where this image will end up.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 145mm
1/60 sec, f/3.2, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Many collectors died in the process of searching for new species, and despite persistent reports that the men died from drowning, gunshot and knife wounds, snakebite, trampling by cattle, or blows in the head with blunt instruments, it is generally accepted that in each case the primary cause of death was orchid fever.”
― Eric Hansen
Perhaps I got a touch of the aforementioned ‘orchid fever’. I have to admit, I’ve been waiting for this shot for a few weeks now and was thrilled when I came across this beautiful flower, next to a rotting log, in a swampy forest, at Secord Forest this week. Not a new species, but new to me.
Through most seasons, I’ve hiked these trails, enjoyed the wonderfully diverse flora and fauna, and even came across a bear last fall. Along this 4.7km forest trail, there is a section with a wooden sign, designating it as the “Orchid Trail”. This has intrigued me for some time, since I tend to favour these trails in the ‘no-mosquito’ seasons and really had no idea what to look for and when to look for them.
This year has been an exception, I began on the trails just as the snow was melting, hoping to document the natural cycle of this forest through my photos. I was determined that orchids would be on my photographic bucket list and set out learning about them and identifying them. The unfortunate thing with my research was that most books listed blooming season from April to August. That was not much help. So, as I set out each week, I started to look deliberately for plant leaves that fit the description of orchids. I did not even know what species are native to this particular forest and there are several possibilities.
Eventually, a few weeks ago, a few banded leaves emerged from the moist forest floor. Perhaps these were the elusive orchids I sought? Steadily, they grew taller and taller to rise some sixty centimeters (two feet) above the mossy ground. They sure looked like orchids, but they seemed taller than I expected. Back to the books, to find that yes, several species fit the description. More days of just foliage followed, till last week, small green buds formed, offering the promise of flowers. What colour would they be? How long would they last? So many questions, few firm facts.
My weekend plans prevented me from checking back on the buds. What if somebody saw the open flowers on the weekend? The trails are filled with people who may not realize how delicate these plants could be, damage them, and deprive me of my prize.
So, I ventured into the forest at lunch, wondering what state this group of five or six plants would be in. I slowed as I approached, looking for a sign of flower. Then, WOW!, the delicate green plants were topped by the most beautiful pink and white slippers. The mystery plant turned out to be a Showy Lady’s Slipper (cypripedium reginae). I had no idea how large they would be, the blossoms were about 5-8 centimeters (2 inches) long, and perfect. Nobody had disturbed them. I sat on a nearby log for some fifteen minutes just revelling in this wonderful creation, then set out to capture this in photographs, hoping to do them justice, checking and double checking my camera settings, not knowing how long these gems will last or when my next visit might be.
The photo above is the culmination of this quest for orchids. Now I know what to look for, where, and when. During this quest, I also found another interesting orchid, which I am currently researching.
Nikon D800
Nikkor AF 28-70mm f/3.5~F/4.5D @ 45mm
1/60 sec, f/4.0, ISO 450
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“The Church does not dispense the sacrament of baptism in order to acquire for herself an increase in membership but in order to consecrate a human being to God and to communicate to that person the divine gift of birth from God.”
― Hans Urs von Balthasar
I can’t fully explain what it was that attracted me to this composition. Yet, I find myself processing that very though in this post.
The golden urn and bowl seemed to stand out from other elements around them. The soft, natural light playing on the mottled gray walls further enhanced the image by isolating the table in the foreground.
It’s a simple scene really, and reminds me a bit of the still life paintings in the Dutch Golden Age style, with their bright golden tones and simple depictions of everyday items.
I also thought this composition might make a nice church bulletin cover, celebrating baptism, which is something I used to produce regularly a few years back. The table seems to be ready and waiting, prepared for something to happen.
Nikon D300
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/60 sec, f/2.8, ISO 1000
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“A garden should make you feel you’ve entered privileged space — a place not just set apart but reverberant — and it seems to me that, to achieve this, the gardener must put some kind of twist on the existing landscape, turn its prose into something nearer poetry.”
― Michael Pollan
A change of pace from all my recent flower and butterfly photos, though if you look closely, there are still flowers present. Can you find them?
I did set out to photograph flowers this day and have plenty to share at a later date, but I do like a good waterfall and the serenity small cascades like this create for me, even knowing it is man made. I used a slow shutter at 1/10 of a second to slightly blur the movement and had to go hand-held because I did not want to carry a tripod all day. That did pose a challenge because it was very bright and I had to shoot at f/32 to keep the water from being blown out.
This stepped cascade can be found at the rock gardens, which are part of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. The rock garden is one of several gardens within this large complex of garden exhibits and is nestled in the base of a valley, forming a bit of a bowl. Much of the stone is native limestone and some material has been moved into place to create a garden with large limestone boulders and many stepped paths which run up and down the hillside. I enjoyed the inclusion of many native plant species, which those who are not hiking the backwoods trails would never experience otherwise. Including Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), which are the small pink flowers visible near the base of the higher cascade. They are a native plant and are members of the geranium family. The crushed leaves can be used as a mosquito repellant, handy at this time of year).
The waterfall pictured here, feeds into some smaller stepped cascades and eventually winds through the lower gardens as a meandering creek which flows beneath bridges and around some wonderful large trees.
At this time of year, the garden also features some exquisite blooming dogwoods, which I have a real attraction to (more photos of those to come).
If you happen to be in the Burlington area and like plants, I would highly recommend this as a destination, but plan on a day, since it is a large complex that spreads over several properties.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/10 sec, f/32.0, ISO 500
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Someone was playing piano nearby and the music drifted slowly in and out of my mind like the ebb and flow of ocean surf. I almost recognized the melody, but I could not be sure, it slipped like a cool and silken wind from my grasp.”
― Chaim Potok
Today’s image is another foray into the world of macro photography and I’m loving the effects and subtle details the naked eye misses. In this case, I think the narrow aperture and gradual fade to the distance give the image a dreamy feel.
There is a wonderful softness in the frills of the peony, the petals fading from deep pink to a faded, papery white. The photo, of course, cannot capture the exquisite scent, yet looking at the photo now brings forth those sweet memories and I hope to carry them into the summer, long after the blossoms have faded.
Nikon D800
Nikkor AF 28-70mm f/3.5~F/4.5D @ 70mm
1/125 sec, f/5.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“I live in my own little world. But its ok, they know me here.”
― Lauren Myracle
Another garden venture into the world of macro photography, which I am enjoying since it often brings about unexpected results. Like this little bug, which has made it’s home, deep inside the flower. I didn’t see him, even when composing the shot.
I still have lots to learn, as I have just started out with an inexpensive set of manual extension tubes and would value the advice of others with experience in macro. If I’m going to pursue this is it worthwhile investment in autofocus tubes or is the preference to remain manual and control the image?
Nikon D800
Nikkor AF 28-70mm f/3.5~F/4.5D @ 50mm
1/400 sec, f/3.5, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“I must have flowers, always, and always.”
― Claude Monet
This strange, flowering bush has fascinated me for some time. The blossoms form from the outside of the flower disc. I had a hard time finding good specimen this year but the photo above should suffice. The central bud clusters are rimmed with beautiful white blossoms. At first glance it would appear to be a form of dogwood, that is till you get closer and inspect the bright white flowers. It’s quite unique and the flowers are pure white. I’ve spotted then in open fields and deeper in the forest but he always catch my attention with their bright flowers.
This bush is one of several growing along the trail that leads into secord Forest, south of Uxbridge, Ontario and I just another testimony to the diverse flora and fauna that call this sanctuary home.
I was on my way into the forest to check on a group of orchids I would like to photograph in bloom. Sadly, after a long mosquito plagued hike, the orchids are still a day or two away from blooming. The flower buds have formed, so its just a matter of time. I’m really hoping to catch them before they fade or someone picks them.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 195 mm
1/320 sec, f/9.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“In June as many as a dozen species may burst their buds on a single day. No man can heed all of these anniversaries; no man can ignore all of them.” – Aldo Leopold
Late spring, and green palettes are dotted with bright pinks, yellows, and whites, like patches of icing. They fairly glow in the bright sunshine. On closer inspection, these splashes of brightness are surprisingly complex.
I would not have expected the structures in the dogwood blossoms and have never really taken the time to look at them carefully. The cluster above was deliberately isolated from the rest by balancing my aperture to keep the cluster in the foreground in focus, while blurring the background and having the light trail off from white to black.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom- @300mm
1/250 sec, f/8.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“The little boy nodded at the peony and the peony seemed to nod back. The little boy was neat, clean and pretty. The peony was unchaste, dishevelled, as peonies must be, and at the height of its beauty. Every hour is filled with such moments, big with significance for someone.”
– Robertson Davies
I’m not sure what the formal designation for this variety of peony is, but in my home it’s know as Grandma Fretz’s Peony. This is one of several heritage peonies we have in our gardens and was passed on to us by my mother-in-law.
This beauty always produces brilliant white blossoms with a splash of bright red at the centre and lining some petals. It’s also incredibly fragrant. At this time of year the air around our house is redolent with the fragrance of peony.
Our only problem is the flowers are so large that even a light rain adds so much weight to them that they just about break their stems or sag to the ground. So, we enjoy them while we can and try to support the large bushes as well as we can.
It’s a true pleasure knowing this same plant graced my wife’s ancestors garden and that we can continue to enjoy them and, hopefully, pass them on to the next generation to enjoy as well. Our saving grace, though I consider myself a good gardener, I seem to have gift for peonies. This is paying off well.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 185mm
1/400 sec, f/5.6, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
I have to admit, my venture into blogging took me some time and encouragement from a few fellow bloggers, at times when I was ready to give up. So, a big thank you to everyone you has enjoyed my photos and thoughts and especially those who have encouraged me to persevere through “No Views” days.
I’m hoping that my photography and writing continue to improve through this experience and interaction with my fellow creatives.
My other hope is that I can be equally encouraging to those just starting out. There is so much incredible talent here, in writers, poets, artists, photographers, etc.
Creativity and beauty needs to be encouraged in this ever negative world.
Ed
This week’s submission to Norm 2.0‘s Thursday Doors.
These doors can be found in Toronto’s Distillery District. All the doors in this area are painted the same green colour to match the period when the buildings were part of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery. I posted another door from this wonderful historic district last week.
This door belongs to a great local restaurant and once led to the distillery’s shipping room.
If you are ever travelling to Toronto, this is a must see destination, filled with great dining spots, galleries and shops. Oh, and do bring a camera.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/60 sec, f/2.8, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“There are moments when I wish I could roll back the clock and take all the sadness away, but I have a feeling that if I did, the joy would be gone as well. So I take the memories as they come, accepting them all, letting them guide me whenever I can.”
― Nicholas Sparks
While on a recent excursion to Lynde Shores, a conservation area on the shores of Lake Ontario, for some bird photos, I took a few minutes to walk the lake shore and enjoy the gently rolling waves. The stone ‘beach’ is made up of water polished rocks of varying sizes. I used some of these rocks, stacked on a piece of driftwood, to make this balanced stone sculpture. Just a bit of whimsey to share with you today.
As to the photo itself: I narrowed the aperture just enough to keep the stones in focus, while allowing the background to blur
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 270mm
1/200 sec, f/7.1, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Here’s my entry for Jennifer’s One Word Photo Challenge with the topic of Candid. This photo is one of my first posts for 2016 and has been a favourite of mine since I made the photo several years ago.
if you are interested in the story, please check out the original post.
Nikon D300
Nikkor 70-300 mm f/4.4-5.6, @ 300 mm
1/60 sec, f/5.6, ISO 450
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website
http://www.edlehming.com
“Everything in me feels fluttering and free, like I could take off from the ground at any second. Music, I think, he makes me feel like music.”
― Lauren Oliver
I’m finding these wonderful small butterflies everywhere lately. In this case, what I believe to be a mating pair, based on the slight size differences and colouration. It was interesting to watch numerous butterflies floating around in search of a suitable mate. There are other small orange butterflies, called ‘skippers’, who get inadvertently drawn into the amourous dances of the Crescents, but only briefly.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/160 sec, f/6.3 ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
I have several interpretations to the OPEN theme. It could be open to any category of post or it could be the ‘opening’ of something, like a door. In this case, it’s the opening of the natural spring cycle in my area of Canada. Throughout the winter, this large creek lies frozen. Within a few short weeks it transforms from ice to a living place once more (another opening of sorts), as the Rainbow Trout begin their annual spawning migration up the creek. Once more, it’s a link to a photo I made back in April, and one of my favourites.
This creates another link to OPEN for me, because a few days after the spawn ends, the fishing season opens.
I was debating submitting this image as well because the snake’s mouth is very clearly open as well. Ah, choices!
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Only when we pay attention and notice small moments, do we make the connections that lead to a change in our perspective.”
― Andrea Goeglein
It’s pretty amazing what you see over a 5km forest hike, especially in a forest as diverse as Secord Forest. Which, fortunately for me, is only a few kilometers from my home, which makes it a super convenient place to go, without a lot of preparation.
Back to the woods, as it were. I’ve gone there a few times over the past few weeks, constantly amazed at how fast the forest goes from its brown, dead, winter form, to a verdant explosion of life and ongoing cycle of growth, blooms, and thriving wildlife.
Lately, with all the blossoming flowers, butterflies have been bountiful. I must admit, that I had no idea just how many different species are native to these woods. I am familiar with the common varieties, like Monarchs, Mourning Cloaks, and the multitude of Coppers and Skippers. Yet, there are vast numbers of tiny butterflies that barely catch your attention, till you stand and watch for movement between the plants.
This specimen eluded my attempts at a photograph for quite some time, but I finally got a good image of its spectacular colours. It’s so small, about the size of a thumbnail, that I did not notice the bright yellow shoulder patches till I looked at the image on my computer. I did spend a bit of time looking up the actual name, but among thousands of butterfly species, I finally gave up and simply named it by its appearance. If there are butterfly enthusiasts out there who can enlighten me on the species, that would be greatly appreciated.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 200 mm
1/180 sec, f/4.5, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“While fear depletes power, faith gives wings for the soul’s elevation.”
― T.F. Hodge
A recently hatched dragonfly, note the right side wing is not fully opened yet. It seemed because it was still not in full flight mode that it hung beneath plants, waiting for its wings to mature.
I simply liked the ‘look’ of this scene, with the dragonfly dangling beneath the clover blossom. There were dozens of dragonflies flitting around but this one was unique and the colours in the late day sun glowed with warmth.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/160 sec, f/6.3 ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“A dragonfly can spend up to several years underwater until it is strong enough to surface, shed its skin and evolve into this beautiful creature. Then it flies free among us but only for a very brief period of up to 2 months before it dies” – Unknown
I spent quite a bit of time searching for the actual name of this species, with not much luck. There are some 5,000 species of dragonflies, each distinguishes by some subtle marking, or pattern. Perhaps an insect enthusiast can enlighten me. Part of my photography discipline is learning about the subjects I photograph and I went a bit ‘bug-eyed’ looking this one up, pardon the pun.
Since upgrading my camera a few weeks ago, I have been venturing out, knowing that noise and cropping were no longer big issues to me. My Nikon D800 performs consistently in almost any lighting condition and I tend to be less timid to do close crops in post production yielding results like the dragonfly pictured above.
In the case of this well posed dragonfly, it was a matter of time waiting for one of the dozens flitting and darting around to light on the branch. It did not take long for that composition to be realized. I went for a higher aperture, to keep the entire dragonfly in focus and the light was quite good, so my ISO was not too high. I’m quite pleased with this.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/60 sec, f/10.0 ISO 220
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“The human body may need to receive sunlight through the tree canopy in order to be in a healthy state. I call this light “Interference Green Light” and it may be the top thing that you need to be receiving in order to be in good health and free of pain.”
― Steven Magee
I don’t know how true the quote is, but I know I need my ‘green’ time. To walk the forests and gaze upon Creation, as often as possible. When I’m outdoors, the busy world of my life fades into the background. It’s still there, but as a peripheral thing, that I can cal at will, but the green and peace of nature permeates me.
The ferns pictured above looked just like this. A verdant curtain, glowing with life, filled with hues of bright green and warmed by the sun. I could sit in this place for hours, watching the dragonflies flitting to and fro, the various butterflies on their endless quest for nectar, and the sound of the forest bids. It’s active and alive, yet ordered. Nature’s cycle, closing off spring and moving towards summer.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/160 sec, f/5.6 ISO 560
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart.”
― Mahatma Gandhi
This is my very first attempt at macro photography. Simple image of bleeding hearts in my garden. I love the shape of the flower and the components that make it what it is. The blossom reminds me often of the quote above. All too often we hear and use words without heart and need to be mindful of that.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 500mm (extension tubes)
1/60 sec, f/5.0 ISO 720
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
This week’s submission for For Thursday Doors – June 9, 2016 by Norm 2.0.
Made at Toronto’s Distillery District. A flash back to Toronto’s past in this wonderfully preserved historical district.
This particular door caught my attention, since it is quite high up. I imagine it would have been used as a loading door. I like the contrast of the bright green against the old red brick.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/60 sec, f/2.8, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Butterflies are self propelled flowers.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
Butterflies are summer to me and I just love the Robert Heinlein quote above. As the air warms, I see more and more of them darting around on the air. They seem to come in all sizes and colours and tend to be a bit elusive when it comes time to photograph them. They sit wonderfully still, till it’s time to release the shutter.
I’m also discovering just how many varieties of butterflies and moths are native to my area of the world. I enjoy identifying the plants and animals I come across on my wanderings and am being more deliberate in the habit lately, as I see other bloggers whom I follow doing the same thing.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/80 sec, f/5.6 ISO 220
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Daisies, simple and sweet. Daisies are the way to win my heart.”
― Patrick Rothfuss
As the quote above says, “Daisies, simple and sweet”. Daisies abound at this time of year. They seem as commonplace as dandelions, yet there is a beautiful simplicity to them that sets them apart from their meadow companions. Perhaps hearkening back to childhood, when I would pick bunches for my grandmother on my way home from school. They lent themselves to that kind of activity, never wilting or seeming to care about their rough transport in the hands of a child.
Or, perhaps it’s the purity of the white petals and the sun-like centres. I don’t know for certain, but I don’t believe I’ll ever tire of daisies. For me they symbolize purity, innocence, and the promise of warm summer days spent wandering through nature, drinking her sights and sounds. Just the thought of it brings a smile to my face.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 300mm
1/160 sec, f/5.6 ISO 220
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Despite its dark veins, the transparency of dragonfly’s wings assures me of a pure, innocent world”
― Munia Khan
Ah, warm weather walks. As plants grow taller and spread across the forest floors, their insect companions abound and show in ever increasing displays of colour and variety. Some are tougher to photograph than others. This female emerald jewelwing, with her distinctive black body and white wing spots, is fairly common around here, but they tend to be a bit skittish with movement. This time she cooperated and posed nicely on a lime green leaf, making her stand out even more.
I have not seen many males yet. They are metallic green in colour and I’m sure they will show up shortly too.
As more wildlife begins to show itself, I’m finding myself gravitating towards it and away from plants. I hope those following my blog aren’t too disappointed?
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @300mm
1/160sec, f/6.3, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Man is ruled by Spirit. In the desert I am worth what my divinities are worth. ~Antoine de-Saint Exupery
As a general statement, and with some exceptions, I tend to prefer art that is self-expressive to art for its own sake. I do not mean to characterize either approach as inherently better or worse, or as…
via Spirituality Beyond Platitudes — Guy Tal Photography Journal
Glorious – This week’s submission to Hugh’s weekly Photo Challenge.
Originally posted in April, but remains one of the most glorious scenes I have participated in this year. I like it so much, I made it my cover photo for spring, but brightened up a bit.
Nikon D300
Tamron 70-200 mm f/2.8 @ 200 mm
1/160 sec, f/7.1, ISO 250
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“If you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it’s your world for a moment.”
― Georgia O’Keeffe
Until last weekend, I did not know these existed. I love dogwoods and have made many photos of the gorgeous Sierra Dogwoods of California’s Yosemite National Park as they gleam bright white against the dark pine forests. The first time I saw a photo of them, I knew I had to experience them for myself. I did that a few years back and absolutely loved it. Now, I come across a pink variety is full splendour and am mesmerized.
This dogwood tree is in my great Aunt’s neighbour’s garden. When I first saw it I was not sure what kind of tree it was, until I looked closer and saw the typical dogwood leaves and delicate blossoms. Truly, a wonderful ornamental tree. The guides say it will survive in my zone and I’m tempted to try it for myself. I’d love to have one of these in my backyard.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) (A16NII) @50mm
1/60 sec, f/3.2, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Vintage – a repost from awhile back. Here’s the original post “Sir Henry’s Phone” which appeared back in September 2015.
Nikon D300
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 95mm
1/15 sec @ f/2.8, ISO 250
For more images like this, please visit my Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/EdLehming
or my website (some images available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Ed Lehming Photography 
Recent Comments