For many years I was self-appointed inspector of snowstorms and rainstorms, and did my duty faithfully -- Henry David Thoreau, Walden
When you live in a northern climate, the only sensible attitude towards snow is one of acceptance because it will snow whether or not you approve of it. It may be difficult to walk in or drive in, but if snow doesn't spark a sense of wonder and beauty, you might as well move to Arizona or Florida and be done with it.
As a photographer I cannot help but get excited about snow. By the time it arrives, the remnants of autumn have become sparse and scraggly, making it difficult to find good photographic subject matter outdoors. Once it snows, everything transforms into a photo op.
Birch Bark & Snow
(click on image for a larger, clearer view)Snow, when it's fluffy, adds a top hat to any plants left standing. It provides contrast and allows the texture of the plant to stand out.
Hydrangea Leaves & Snow
(click on image for a larger, clearer view)A light dusting, particularly when highlighted by bright sunlight, emphasizes patterns and textures in both natural subjects, and man-made creations.
Snow on Roof Shingles
(click on image for a larger, clearer view)Snow is usually a cheery addition to plants, but at times it becomes sinister. When the sky is deeply overcast, there is often a deep brooding in snow-covered subjects that hints at winter's darker side.
Snow & Holly
(click on image for a larger, clearer view)Even rusty air conditioner cages take on a photogenic element when helped along by nature's ice crystals.
Snow on Air Conditioner
(click on image for a larger, clearer view)By March, I'm as tired of snow and winter as any maple-syrup-slurping Canadian, but in the meantime, as the crooner sings, "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"
(18-Dec-2003, Revised 17-June-2004)
www.NorthernJourney.com -- gene@wilburn.ca