I keep finding myself going back to these images from January 2015. In this photo, the ice sheets extend out into Lake Huron, near Point Clarke, to about 2 miles. The weather had been relatively mild for January, but a sudden deep freeze caused the thin ice to pile up and rapidly freeze into an extended, but thin “shelf”. Because the open water beyond the shelf was still relatively warm, moisture laden air rose up into the dark snow clouds you see in the distance. It was sunny where I was standing, which lights up the snow and ice nicely, but is a strong contrast to the snowstorm occurring off-shore.
A far off mountain range in some distant land? No, this pile of snow and ice was photographed along the shores of Lake Huron in January. After a relatively mild December, a period of deep freezes and high winds began to push the fragile shore ice into great stacks of ice. High winds and extremely cold temperatures then forced waves under the ice and through cracks creating ‘ice volcanoes’ made of ice, sand and rocks from below the surface. The combination of these elements created a surreal landscape that I have never before experienced. I was so pleased that the photos captured the scale and fine details of this marvellous scene.
On a recent visit to Ahmik Lake, near Magnetawan, Ontario, I came across this pine tree and boulder shrouded in snow. The scene is so typical of Canadian Shield scenery. The tree is likely over a hundred years old and has witnessed many seasons. I liked the way the exposed portions of bark looked much like the pink feldspar on the boulder next to it, topped off with the pure white snow. It just says “Canadian Winter” to me. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
On a recent trip downtown I noticed these interesting stacked housing units near the St. Lawrence market. I was drawn by the repeated shapes and colour, but on further observation, there are some very interesting textures. I also did not notice that all the doors had heavy mesh on them. Can you spot the two pigeons? Enjoy the view 🙂
On a recent canoe trip up the York River near Bancroft, I notice that our cool, wet summer has made several trees begin to change there leaves to fall colours. Along the York River I was treated to the marvellous effect of gradually changing colours. The tops of the trees are in full fall splendour while the bottoms, closest to the warmer water are still green. I am hoping this effect continues for a while so I can see more of it in the upcoming weeks.
Egan Chute is the first of three chutes (Egan, Middle, and Farm) on the York River near Bancoft, Ontario. Egan is the easiest to access and perhaps the most beautiful. At this point of the York River, the river flow bends around a corner and flows with incredible power and beauty across a series of ‘steps’ creating a wonderful fan effect. The wet summer this year has kept the water flowing well, though dry summers create delicate, wispy effects. The chutes are now designated as Ontario Provincial Park to further protect the unique environment.
A surprising find in the relatively flat area of North Pickering was this beautiful waterfall. It is the remnant of an old mill pond on Duffins Creek. The pond has become a meadow and Duffins Creek flows through it to exit at this waterfall. Due to its ease of access, I have gone here on many occasions and seasons. Unfortunately, this little gem sits inside the boundaries of the proposed Pickering Airport. I’m really hoping that project does not proceed because of it’s ecological sensitivity. I have hiked the many tributaries of Duffins Creek and can’t imaging this beautiful environment being used as an airport.
Taken on a hike to Mirror Lake in Yosemite. Tenaya Creek parallels the trail for most of the way and there are lots of these beautiful cascades along the way. I liked the log stuck between the rock and the way the water sprayed off of it. If you like waterfalls check out my Facebook page at:
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While it may not be a spectacular photo, there was something about the ancient beam and how the light played off of it that caught my attention. Soft light and a golden glow accent the axe marks and cause me to imagine when this beam was created, using only hand tools. It sure stands the test of time.
This guy was sunning himself on a private island this past weekend. I liked the idea of the little mound of swamp as his personal space and enjoyed the bright greens of the grasses as well as his reflection in the lake. Just a peaceful image from a peaceful day canoeing on Marble Lake near Bancroft.
You never know what you might see in Kensington Market. During a recent trip to the popular Toronto Market, streets were closed to vehicles (one Sunday every month in the summer) and the market was packed with people. Street performers, musicians, vendors, and artists filled the street with sights, sounds, the smell of ethnic cooking, and colour. At one corner, a group of performers were re-enacting a Mayan ceremony. I was captivated by their bright costumes and snapped a few photos to capture the moment.
This is a shot of the rapids below High Falls. It is the source of the York River as it flows from Baptiste Lake, north-west of Bancroft. I was taken by the speed of the water (thus the name) and the way the bright sunlight played through the water.
Another abstract using the strong vertical lines of these trees. The light was just right to bring out the subtle colours in the small grove of trees.
In the midst of a primarily pine and oak forest of the Walkers Woods trail area is a small copse of dense young maples that offers strong vertical lines. This area is such a strong contrast to most of the region. I missed the peak colour change this year, but there was still enough colour on the forest floor to add some brightness to this shot.
I have spent a lot of time on the various Durham trails. It is such a diverse area that there is always something new to see and new trails to explore through the different seasons.
I love doing the effect in camera. With the right light and strong vertical lines, you end up with what looks like a painting and it is never the same twice.
This morning, the pond at Goodwood Conservation Area had no snow on it (it was -10 C). The pond was covered with these branched holes. I’ve looked them up and seen several theories as to what causes them. Most attribute it to a hole forming under the snow as it melts, which creates the branches or conduits. As the snow melts and the ice reforms, it fills in with darker, harder ice. They sure are interesting
A nice view of Monterey Harbour. The tide was low, revealing rocks clearly. The lupine and rocks helped frame the shot nicely, and the sky was a wonderful mix of clouds and turquoise.
Ed Lehming Photography 
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