“The world is indeed full of peril, and in it there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater.”
―
In these uncertain times, the Tolkien quote resonates with me. There are so many things that are fair, and there are more and more every day. I’m making it my habit to actively seek them out.
Yesterday, I finally ventured back onto the local trail because they bring me joy and refresh me. They are infrequently travelled and allow lots of space if a fellow hiker happens to pass by. My purpose, aside from just getting outdoors is exactly what Tolkien alludes to; the quest for signs of beauty and renewal.
From my many years outdoors, I know the cycles of spring and which plants flower at specific times. Bloodroot is usually among the first to bloom, preceded by Coltsfoot. I was a bit disappointed as I scanned the forest floor hopefully. I saw many Bloodroots emerged from the dry brown debris of the forest floor. Usually they are in full bloom by now. After hiking a few more kilometers I was greeted by this beauty, still tightly wrapped in its leafy shroud. yet in full bloom; just what I needed; a gift of beauty and of hope. The cycle is delayed but I know with certainty that it will continue, just as nature always does. The symbolism of a gradual ‘opening’ inspires with me as we begin looking forward to something closer to ‘normal’.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 (272ENII)@90mm
1/25 sec, f/20.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“As doom and gloom pervade our lives it’s difficult to feel freshness. Yet, nature shows us that just as one thing dies off, another appears. Our path need not be wearisome if we open our eyes in expectation to the new rather than the old.” – Ed Lehming
Such was my experience today, as I returned to my beloved trails. It’s nearing the end of April, the world is locked in a battle with a pandemic and much of the news is less than positive. The forest is my source of energy and I have missed it so much through this uncertainty.
My expectations as I set out was that I would see a few of the early blooming spring ephemerals. At first not much was visible but I soon noticed some trilliums starting to emerge, some even had traces of flower buds, but it will be a while before they actually bloom. I was hoping to see a few Bloodroot by this time of year, but most were still tightly bundled up.
As my hike progressed I started noticing a few Spring Beauties blooming among the patches of Trout Lily leaves. The Trout Lilies will also be a while before they blossom. I figured that was the best I could hope for, as it has been rather cool this spring and being home I have fallen out of sync with the timing of the spring blooms.
Then, as I resigned to this rather scant showing of blossoms, I saw a splash of white against an old log and could not believe the that I was seeing a Hepatica (Sharp-Leafed Liverwort) blooming this early, and more advanced than other plants that generally bloom a few days before them.
The bright, fresh white against the rotting log brought me back to my recent mood, looking desperately for some brightness to see me through these times. This beautiful flower was just what I needed, but I would not have seen it had I not been actively looking for it. So, I will head into the next few days with the same philosophy of keeping my eyes and ears open to beauty and freshness.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 (272ENII)@90mm
1/25 sec, f/20.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Travel far enough, you meet yourself.”
―
Since I’m quite limited in my travels these days, so I’m spending time enjoying memories of last year. I’m recalling vividly with each image the sights, sounds and aromas of the places I visited. In this case, my trip to Spain.
Yesterday I shared an image of Montserrat and the beautiful vistas it offered. That image is looking outward from the monastery high on the mountain’s slopes. Today’s image is looking upwards, towards the monastery, precariously perched on one of the cliffs and also showing the cable cars which transport you to that cliff.
As I stood waiting to board the next cable car, I could not help but imaging what it would have been like for the early monks to build the monastery in such a location. Just transporting materials would have been quite a challenge.
This was a strange day, as I have already noted. It varied between high cloud and brightness, which afforded me this photo, and torrential downpours. With this variability came thick patches for fog that clung to the hillside, often obscuring most of the buildings.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 185 mm
1/100 sec, f/5.0 ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Clouds define my mood today, but they are as temporary as sunshine and offer balance and perspective” – Ed Lehming
I have not posted anything for a few days, I’ve limited my social media activity and found myself drawn inward. It’s a very strange feeling lately, even for someone who tends to value solitude.
The trails I usually hike on are open to me, but I feel a sense of guilt driving to them. We’re told to stay at home except for necessities. I find myself reviewing photos from the past year, seeking inspiration, which eludes me. Each day blends into the next. My work keeps me occupied during the week but it’s monotonous and I seek something to focus on, a problem to solve, a process to improve, but that also requires inspiration.
The world has slowed down during this “Great Pause” as I am now calling it. The present and future are veiled in clouds. There is no clear direction and like being in a thick fog, my other senses reach out past what my eyes can’t see. I listen for some sound of clarity, the feel of something to hold onto, the scent of change, for something to pull me forward. But, the clouds persist.
The image I chose for today is from my trip to Spain late last summer. Of the twenty one days we spent in Spain, it rained only one day, the day we had chosen to visit Montserrat, just north of Barcelona. It was one of those days you simply can’t plan for anything for more than a few minutes, the kind of day that varies from a fine mist, brightening with a promise of sunlight to full downpour. This was the day we spent mainly outdoors on this spectacular mountain with its oddly shaped rocks and beautiful monastery.
We made the most of it and despite the rain and the mist I was able to make a few photos that showed the mountain and surrounding countryside nicely. I’m trying to do the same thing as we live through the current COVID-19 pandemic. I’m trying to grab hold of the moments of brightness as it offers itself because I don’t know when the next downpour is coming or when the sun is finally going to break through, even though I know it will, eventually.
iPhone 7 back camera @ 4.0mm
1/1000 sec; f/1.8; ISO 20
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
―
As I stated yesterday, I’m finding myself quite reflective these days. As I review my photos I’m really struck by all the wonderful experiences the past year has provided. I’m grateful to have the health and resources to be able to travel and experience the world, and grateful for the ability to visually document these experiences.
Many of the most joyful moments in our travels have been the quiet and simple things, like standing in an ancient olive grove in the foothills of Spain’s Sierra Nevada. This ancient grove, just outside of Granada, is several hundred years old and bounded to the south by rugged mountains. As I stood there, I could imagine the farmers of old planting this grove in the shadow of the same mountains. The dry and sparse soil provided just enough to allow these trees to flourish and bear fruit which produces some of the finest olive oil in the world. It was not a quick process but by having just enough of the right minerals the trees bore a better quality yield than might have been imagined.
So, on reflecting on these scenes, I’m reminded that even though our travels are far from luxurious, they provide us with these small experiences, shared with friends and family that have yielded more than we could have imagined, and I am forever thankful for that.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 98mm
1/1000 sec, f/16.0 ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Someday we will look back on this moment and it will forever remind us to never take the little things for granted. It will remind us to hug with all our hearts, to pause to appreciate holding someone’s hand, and to live in the moments that we are surrounded by others.”
– Laura Jones
In the past few days I have found myself spending an inordinate amount of time going through recent photos. The photos I am spending more time with lately are not the images I use for my art, but rather photos that include my travels with friends and family.
I’m looking at them more deliberately now. What were at the time simple travel snapshots, trying to quickly capture a moment, are now more precious. There are details in these simple images that make me smile.
I chose this image of a Cozumel sunset from last January. Even though there are no people visible in the image at the time I made the photo, I was in the company of much of my family and close friends as we gathered on the beach to watch the closing of the day. This simple moment was so enjoyable for us. As I look at the photo, I can hear the voices and the laughter and sense the joy we all shared together. It was a moment of shared peace, a moment when the entire world stood still, a moment of connectedness.
In the current situation, with its lockdowns and isolation, it’s these moments that stand out the most and the ones I hope to revisit in the not too distant future. For now, I will revel in the images and the memories they hold.
iPhone 7 back camera @ 4.0mm
1/340 sec; f/1.8; ISO 20
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Even in the darkness and the tangles of life, light seems to find its way to us.” – Ed Lehming
This image was made in January, during a family vacation to Mexico. I was experimenting with my deliberate camera movement (DCM) technique using the jungle foliage as my subject. It’s a bit different than the forests in my area as the jungle is quite tight compared to the wider spaces of hardwood forests There are also less vertical elements and the light is so much different.
I got a lot of shots that just looked ‘blurry’ rather than painterly and most were significantly over or underexposed. After a few tries I had landed on the right settings and made a series of images that where interesting but nothing really ‘stuck’. However, this one particular image happened to catch the reflected light of the setting sun as a bright flash in the shadows.
The light was not something I particularly noticed as I made the image, which is often the case in these abstract shots. However, these elements seem to always be there and I must subconsciously detect them as I compose the image.
As I was looking for material to post, this particular image stood out, given the mood of the world today. People seem to be struggling with all the unknowns and navigate their way through these days of uncertainty. The little flash of light reminds me that all is not completely dark, if you deliberately look for the good things and focus on them. Suddenly, the tangle and darkness of our world offers some hope, and I’m personally encouraged by that.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 135mm
1/4 sec, f/10.0 ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Caribbean warmth rolled from the sea, caressing this ancient land as emerald waves lapped the shore.” – Ed Lehming
Today I really felt a need to retreat back to fond memories. It feels like so long ago but was only months.
Our group set out for a day trip to Mexico’s Tulum ruins along the Yucatan coast. Tulum is a rare Mayan ruin that sits on the coast, rather than inland as most are. There are many theories and histories about this place. One thing that is certain, throughout its life Tulum was a trading port and even had a primitive lighthouse to guide seafaring traders safely through the coral reefs. It was also in its most ancient history believed to have been a sacred site occupied by priests and astronomers.
We found the visit very interesting but what I really loved was the view across the water and the bright colours of the water and foliage as they meet the rocky coastline.
The image above is a digital painting made from one of my photos.
“The cycle continues, winter leads to spring and the ground drinks in the warmth of the brightening sunshine. Traces of winter remain as distant memories” – Ed Lehming
Nowadays I’m even more appreciative of the beautiful outdoor spaces so close to home. It also helps that the snow and ice is gradually receding. Not gone,as there were some quite treacherous stretches that made me happy to have my ‘icers’ on.
But, there were several clear stretches of open, leaf-covered ground and even a few hearty sedges beginning to peer through. It won’t be long till spring is in full swing.
It is so different this year though. With all the focus on COVID-19 and “social distancing” some of the anticipated joy of spring is missing. On reflection, the only real difference is in my perception. Driving to the trailhead, I’m feeling a bit apprehensive. Am I doing the right thing by venturing out? I get to the trailhead and there are a disproportionate number of cars for this time of year. Clearly, I’m not the only one who needed to get outdoors. As I start my hike, I notice very few tracks and when I get to the first icy section, the sparse footprint turn back; I realize that these are not the true ‘hikers’, simply people wanting to be outside, with no intention of entering the formal trail system. They are just looking around, likely unfamiliar with this area.
During my five kilometer hike, I meet one other person, heading the other direction. WE exchange a brief hello in passing and continue on our way. Each enjoying some quiet time in nature and watching the earth continue it’s cycles, oblivious to what’s happening in the human world.
As I emerge from the trail, refreshed and a few new photos on my camera, the trailhead is still crammed with cars, but nobody in sight. A good day to recharge.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/32, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Glad memories of days recently past bring joy as I recall days of travel, friends, and the bright colours of distant lands.” – Ed Lehming
This seems like a distant memory right now. In the days of self-isolation I’m recalling our recent trip to Spain with such fondness. Even though today dawned bright and cool, the colours and activity of our first full day in Spain comes back. I find myself looking at photos filled with crowds of people talking to each other, dining in cafés, and simply enjoying the warm days of late summer.
This image is taken looking across Girona’s Rio Onyar, with the massive Cathedral of Girona dominating the scene. I simply love the bright colours of the riverside dwellings and the deep blue of the sky.
As I review my many photos of that trip, I will share photos and memories. Even though I really don’t consider myself a travel photographer, perhaps these images can bring some joy into others lives as well.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 17-50 mm F2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical IF A1N6II @ 19mm
1/400 sec, f/10.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Thursday Doors – March 19, 2020
Plaça del Rei – Barcelona
These doors, as do many places in the Gothic Quarter of Old Barcelona have been witness to many historical events. The story with this particular door, which is a courtyard entrance to a former royal palace is supposedly the door the Queen Isabella came through when she delivered her commission to Christopher Columbus, on these steps, to set out to the new world.
As I travelled Spain late last summer the many crossroads of history that were a blur to me in school all came together. In the same year as Columbus set out for America (1492 AD) the final Moorish stronghold in Granada surrendered, making Spain a Christian country once more. That coupled with Columbus and future explorers conquest of the Americas set Spain up for a meteoric rise in power and wealth. It’s an absolutely fascinating period in European history that I plan to research further.
It seemed that every town we visited was a further immersion in a very interesting history that I was quite sad that I was not aware of, except at a very superficial level.
Monochrome Monday
“Guardian of the Stairs” – Aix-aux-Thermes
As this month progresses and I get to finally reviewing and editing some of last years travel photos I’m finding myself leaning more towards mono images. They just seem to have more character and emotion to them.
Here, a local cat lounges at the base of a set stone steps in the French town of Aix en Thermes, seemingly guarding the way. The photo essentially composed itself with the cat as the focal point and the gradients of the steps just adding interest and a bit of mystery as they rise and bend out of sight. I should note that I often consider shooting in mono and ensuring that I get enough tonal variety and contrast to make it interesting but end up reverting to the comfort zone of colour and switching to mono as I edit.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 17-50 mm F2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical IF A1N6II @ 48mm
1/160 sec, f/6.3, ISO 320
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Discover how to visit the past and bring yesterday’s stories into our lives today”
―
I’ll start out by saying my trip to Spain late last summer left me breathless though more relaxed than I thought was possible given the distances covered and steps climbed.
For a Canadian traveler to this ancient and interesting land was an incredible experience. I love history and to actually stand in these places and let my imagination wander was simply amazing.
I have seen photos and illustrations in my history texts and seen many of these places portrayed in film, but to actually stand here is another thing completely.
We began our trip in the Catalonian town of Girona. I’ll also start by saying that anything I mention from this region of Spain will be referenced as Catalonia, which as I have discovered, though part of Spain, has a completely separate history, language and culture which I want to respect.
So, here I stood in ancient Girona, in the northeastern region of Spain, known as Catalonia. The city is dominated by it’s brightly coloured riverfront houses and the massive Cathedral of Girona, which holds the world record for the widest Gothic nave, spanning an incredible 22 meters. The Cathedral become more recently know for its role in the HBO series Game of Thrones, where it is the inspiration for the Sept of Balor. While I did find the cathedral beautiful, I found myself intrigued with the lesser known views of the back for the cathedral, shown here. It certainly shows the consecutive addition of various building to the cathedral over time and I loved all the variance in tones and texture.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 17-50 mm F2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical IF A1N6II @ 17mm
1/125 sec, f/8.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Thursday Doors – March 12, 2020
“Plaça del Raval” – Bagà, Españia
On a vacation trip late last summer I had the opportunity to travel through three countries in a single day: Spain, France, and Andorra. Along the way to France, tucked into the foothills of the Pyrenees, is the Catalonian village of Bajà. This was my first real venture away from the bustle of Barcelona and this beautiful little town of some 2,000 people had a wonderful medieval feel to it with its narrow winding streets and old stone structures.
Along the main street I came across this simple door. The light and textures were just irresistible and I found it translated even better as a mono image. I do not have an exact address and Google Street View does not travel down this narrow roadway, so I can’t give exact coordinates but it’s just west of the Plaça del Catalunya, if you are ever in the area.
The other thing that struck me, but unfortunately did not work well within the composition, though I hoped it would, was the prevalence of Catalonian independence flags flying from nearly every window. The deeper you travel into north-east Spain the more noticeable the Catalonian movement for independence is, with flags and banners everywhere in the region with its very own culture and language.
I plan on sharing more of that experience in subsequent posts.
“What lies ahead? We seldom know the details, but we anticipate, hoping for the best.” – Ed Lehming
As February transitions to March, I am keenly aware of the subtle changes in the forest. The light is a bit warmer and softer than it has been for far too long, there are more birds flitting about in the branches high above. There is more movement and the sounds are different. Even the air has a new feel.
There is a change just ahead and just like the forest trails as they rise and dip, so do the seasons, but it’s never quite the same, there is always some slight variation beyond the next hill.
It’s those subtle changes that I enjoy the most, not anxiously, but with glad anticipation. That barely noticable change may be the inspiration for my next favourite photo, though I have tread these paths so many times before.
There is also a change in me, how I see things, how I perceive them, as well as my many experiences lead me on, always knowing that what lies ahead will not be the same as what I have become accustomed to and I hope that my journey thus far has prepared me to fully enjoy them.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/32, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Light and shadow compete in the changing light just as the warm and cool air swirls within the March forest, each seeking dominion at this time of transition.” – Ed Lehming
For this image I set out to try something very different from my usual style. First of all, I shot the image in mono, getting the light and shadow to balance just right after several failed attempts. Second, I shot a forest scene in landscape orientation while still moving my camera to get the slight sense of motion that I like so much.
As the image came together I was quite pleased in how it realized so close to what I had envisioned. It brought forth a forest still snow-bound, yet somehow alive and filled with energy. The flow of the snow on the gently sloped ground further enhanced this feeling of life, or motion. The trees don’t feel static either, they seem to flow into each other and are accented by the light reflecting from the fine branches that weave and wind between them.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/29, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Enter March with caution, it may seem calm and quite but the month can surprise the unprepared with surprising fury, all is not as it seems in the moment. – Ed Lehming
It’s been quite a change since my last outing at the end of February. The snow remains, but warm and sunny days followed and the snow now lies deep and wet, and packed, making the trails easier to walk, without snowshoes, but very uneven.
The clouds and snow of February have been for now, replaced by sunshine and mild days. When I went out to make this photo I was wearing a sweatshirt and down-filled vest and ended up taking the vest off and rolling my sleeves up before I was halfway done.
These days offer beautiful light and last week’s snow still flows relatively pure and unbroken. A step off the trail and you are knee-deep in it, so the only disturbance to the snow is the occasional dog venturing off after a squirrel.
I do love these days, where the contrast of winter cold and snow against sunlit bright warm leaves is so noticable. It almost feels like the light of spring is breaking through. But I won’t be deceived, March can bring some ‘interesting’ weather as well and I’m fully prepared to don my toque and winter jacket a few more times before it’s done.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/25, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Thursday Doors – March 5, 2020
“Safe in Barcelona”
It’s been a long time since I posted to this topic. That does not mean my camera has not been snapping away. I now have a vast library of doors to share over the coming weeks.
This door was in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and shows the inside of a shop door. I wasn’t sure what to title it, but the Catalan protests that happened while I was there and escalated prompted several of my travelling friend to post that they were ‘safe’ on various social media platforms. Given the number of locks on this door, I’d say the contents of the store were “Safe in Barcelona.”
I also noticed many of these ancient doors had been repaired numerous times, simple by inserting a new piece of wood where the damaged or rotted piece was. Which makes for some pretty eclectic designs.
“The days of February’s end are unpredictable, often dull and snow filled. Yet, in the right conditions glimpses of spring light brighten the days.” – Ed Lehming
There is a certain magic in late February. A spring nears, the sun rises ever so slightly higher in the sky. Beams of warm light penetrate the forest, probing into what was just weeks ago a dull and shaded glade.
This warm sunshine lights up the formerly muted thickets, revealing wonderful greens and golds. It’s the splashes of brightness that I really enjoy. The way they seem to focus my attention on distant details that were shadows a few short weeks ago. The beams dance among the tree trunk, causing a glow that strongly contrasts with the shaded areas. It feels like an early sign of the life that will soon abound in the springtime forest.
In this image, those elements abound as the sun is able to light up the taller trees and short firs on this slight rise in the terraine. It’s like a beautiful cascade of light and colour rising from the snow covered ground.
And so, February passes away and March arrives.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.”
―
This day, February 29, a leap day, was yet another opportunity for me to get outdoors and spend some time enjoying the fresh fallen snow. It was a rather crisp day, with a temperature of -13 C, calm, and bright. I figured that the cold temperatures might keep many people indoors, and I was right.
When I got to the trailhead, there was not a single car in the lot and the trails were completely untouched. I had brought my snowshoes along because the 30 cm of fresh snow we received over the previous two days would not provide an easy walk. I was wise in choosing this option because even with snowshoes on, I found myself breaking fresh trail through deep powdery snow for the entire 5 km hike, high stepping the entire way. It was exhausting yet exhilarating at the same time.
To walk through this winter world in solitude and experiencing the simple things like the sound of the sound of snow puffing and crunching underfoot, the eerie crackling of the trees in the deep cold, and the soft flitter of birds high above is refreshing to me.
Because the snow was so deep, I had plenty of opportunities to simply pause, rest, and listen as I caught my breath. It also offered the opportunity to make a few photos as I stood on the trail surveying my surroundings and made me realize just how deep the snow was by the newly packed trail behind me.
The photo I chose today is looking back at the trail after having emerged from the forest into a small clearing. You can see my path between the trees.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Familiar paths beckon us forward. Though familiar, there is always something new or changed, if we take the time to notice.” – Ed Lehming
I find myself on the same trails many times. Often I wonder what more they can offer me as I set out. Every time, there is something new. It may be that I have come at a different time of day and the light has changed. It may be a different time of year and new plants spring up that did not exist, or went unnoticed, last time I passed by.
What I have discovered in this familiarity is that even subtle changes are quickly noticeable.
I’ve had people bemoan the fact that they live in an area that does not have much subject matter to make beautiful photos, when in fact, it’s simply that they aren’t looking closely enough. Even the most barren of places has something to offer.
In the case of this image, I have made many photos of it, in various seasons and weather conditions. Like this example from less than a year ago.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 90 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“There are a few precious days in February when hints of spring float in the air.” – Ed Lehming
I’m continuing with a series of photos I made last weekend while hiking local trails. These are the final few days of February and I was glad to have two wonderfully mild and bright days to be on the trails.
As I mentioned earlier, I had a repeat injury to my knee which has kept me off the uneven and often icy trails since December. So to be back out in such ideal conditions makes it doubly nice.
The dark days of winter are passing behind us and the sun is getting higher in the sky each day. I find it has a beautiful warmth this time of year and sheds just enough light to bring out the highlights in the otherwise dull forest. It’s these patches of light that I am so fond off because they draw my attention into distant details that I might otherwise miss.
When composing this image, my primary intent was to capture vertical lines of the trees in the foreground contrasting with the horizontal movement of the snow and long shadows around them. However, there are a few ‘pops’ of golden light in the background that pull you deeper into the image and scan the tangle of trees along the distant hillside.
It’s the continuous realization of these scenes that has me coming back to the forest time and time again. It’s never the same twice and there is always some new revelation for me to enjoy.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 90 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 100
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Floating in a soft sea of snow, the forest weathers the drifting tide of whiteness that surrounds them.” – Ed Lehming
As I composed this image I was struck by the illusion of movement in the snow as it followed the contours of the forest floor. By adding just a bit more movement than I normally do, the illusion is enhanced further and the snow takes on the appearance of soft liquid waves or fine mist. My technique to achieve these slightly blurred images is the result of a lot of trial and error and now muscle memory. So to do something like, with no change to my camera settings, is a bit uncomfortable and unpredictable.
It’s a bit out of the ordinary, but sometimes I like to follow a creative thread to see where it leads me. In this case, I am quite pleased with the result of changing my technique, ever so slightly, to take me to something altogether unexpected.
I also switched back to my favourite Tamron 70-200 mm lens which enables me to compose the image as I shoot rather than cropping on the computer. I try to limit my edits to just a few fine adjustments.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 110 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 200
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“You can feel it in the air and in memories of the past. Despite the snow and wind, a hint of spring and the coming spring rite of maple syrup whispers at our thoughts.” – Ed Lehming
On a recent trip to Ontario’s Prince Edward County, I was drawn to this peaceful scene of a sugar shack nestled in the woods that I spotted across a farm field and knew I had to make a photo of it.
In my mind, I already had the composition I wanted and it took only a handful of shots before I had something I could work with. What I had not figured out was how to most effectively present the image. As I reviewed the image on my computer and imagined a few different outcomes, I settled on a simple black and white version. It seems to work well, because even now, as I look at it, I can almost see the steam billowing from the roof vents as maple syrup production starts up in the coming weeks. A sure sign of spring.
Nikon D800
Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G I AF-S VR Zoom @ 200 mm
1/400 sec, f/10.0 ISO 500
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“The surprises light offers are endless” – Ed Lehming
Today’s image has a direct connection to the one I posted yesterday. Namely, the interesting colours that winter can offer.
This is the first image I made as I embarked on a 6 km hike at a local conservation area. I used my standard camera setting for my deliberate camera movement pans, but this image was slightly overexposed. I would normally have deleted this image immediately but decided to keep it. As I brought the image up on my computer, I was surprised by the variety of wonderful pastel colours present within the image. I decided to leave the image exactly as it came from the camera to share this effect. What really amazed me was the amount of pale purple present in the image. It’s not something my eye picked up on as I composed it.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 (272ENII)@90mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 250
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Winter is not all bleak and gray, if you look closely, subtle colours abound in the most wonderful places” – Ed Lehming
Well, after a long hiatus, I have returned to my photography and writing.
Last year was ‘disruptive’ at best. Too many changes came at me too quickly and left me overwhelmed and uninspired. I was ‘retired’ from work briefly and It took me some time to come to terms with the new environment thrust upon me. I’m still coming to terms with this new reality.
I did continue to get out and make photos and posted a few along the way. Autumn yielded some stunning shots and I had intended to get back to a more regular cadence of photos and posts till a simple household activity re-injured my MCL and left me unable to venture onto the trails I love so much.
Without my hikes, which are my time to relax and renew, I found myself completely uninspired. I did get the occasional imagine in as the winter wore on, but I fell into a bit of a creative funk.
As winter wore on, my knee continued to heal and today I felt it was strong enough for me to hit the trails again. Today was a beautiful late February day, filled with bright sunshine, mild temperatures, and the blessing of birdsong. The trails were snowcovered and packed down but not icy. A perfect day to begin again. I found the forest welcoming me once more with beautiful compositions and a surprising variety of subtle colours, which inspired this image, made looking forward as I walked along the trail.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 (272ENII)@90mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 100
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“As winter takes hold, autumn lashes out in fiery shows of golds and orange as if shouting, “My splendour is not yet spent”, her voice fading in the chill of November, another day closer to winter.”
– Ed Lehming
Such was the scene today as I drove home from a visit to Bancroft, Ontario. I had driven up for the day to drop of recent prints at the Artists Co-op I belong to there, A Place for the Arts. As is my habit, I always have my camera gear with me when I travel.
Today was no exception, as I left the snow-covered countryside close to home, the snowy blanket covering the ground actually thinned as we headed further north. Our recent snowfalls stayed mainly to southern Ontario, so far.
I noticed a lot of open water and some very thin sheets of ice on the smaller lakes. It has been cold enough to freeze but even a bit of movement in the water will soon break up an evening’s freeze up. We had a pleasant drive up but nothing really caught my attention.
After dropping off my work and visiting with some fellow artists, I headed a bit further north, to my brother-in-law’s woodlot, in hopes of a few winter images for Christmas cards, managing to get a few that may realize into what I was after.
Leaving the woodlot, we proceeded home and on looking at the low clouds, I said to my wife, “It looks like we may have a nice sunset today, if the trees don’t block the view.” That was certainly the case, for a portion of the drive, till I rounded a corner and was greeted with this beautiful view of the eastern arm of Paudash Lake. It was just cold enough to start making a fine film of clear smooth ice and the sun hung just above the treeline, shining through the dark wisps of fall clouds.
I stopped along the roadside and composed a few shots. Of the four that I made, this one appealed to me the most in terms of composition and feel. You can just discern where the ice ends and open water begins, including a pair of ducks taking advantage of a brief opening before the lake fully freezes over, which I expect will be very soon.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 110 mm
1/640 sec, f/13.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Nature is filled with cycles, as one thing passes from this world, another is ready to take its place. Each eager for it’s time in the sun”
– Ed Lehming
I find myself returning to this place frequently, primarily because of the stark contrasts i find here. The hillside is filled with several standing dead pine trees. By the bleached look of them and the deterioration of the bark, I’d say they have been dead for some time now. They stand in contrast to the rest of the lush vegetation that surrounds them eager to take their place.
At this particular time of year, the hillside is filled with young birches, their leaves turned a bright autumnal yellow. They seem so alive, even though we are well into fall. They seem even more vibrant as a backdrop to their deceased neighbours.
As my quote says, “Life Goes On”, the cycle of life continues, the weak and aged fade, but are not soon forgotten. some have broken or fallen down, and I will miss them when they are gone. This scene would not be the same without them.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Golden light beams forth from the hillsides behind the tall pines, competing with the sunshine at my side; a competition for my attention.”
– Ed Lehming
This is a scene very typical of a local conservation area that I hike on a regular basis. Every visit I make offers some new scene of beauty that make me wonder if I had simply missed it on a prior passing.
There is something along this trail, which parallels a steep hillside that makes for some very unique scenes. I think it’s the layers of varied vegetation, that even in the summer, has more diverse textures and colours than surrounding forest. It’s also facing south, which provides nice lighting and contrast early in the day or late afternoon.
At this time of year, it’s quite spectacular when the distant birches and beeches light the hillside in golds and coppers, setting the background alight in strong contrast to the deep green pines along the trail.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 90 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
“Movement. The forest is not a static thing. It’s alive and beckons me into it.”
– Ed Lehming
An experiment in movement that I played with recently. I’ve been doing vertical pan photos for some time and have them down to pure muscle memory and the sound of the shutter ‘slap’. Here, I introduced movement by zooming in as I made the image. My standard shutter speed of 1/4 second remains the same, but the effect is a lot different. I don’t believe it’s something I would do a lot of, but it certainly is energetic, and does feel like I’m being drawn in.
Though it would not be a go-to for me, the layers of yellow and orange as well the interlaced branches that plays here is definitely appealing.
Nikon D800
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD @ 70 mm – 90 mm
1/4 sec, f/32.0, ISO 400
For more images like this, please visit my website (images are available for purchase)
http://www.edlehming.com
Ed Lehming Photography 
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