The boundaries of possible
The boundaries of possible

I’ve found myself fascinated by the almost abstract patterns that the recent sticking snow made out of ordinary objects, such as this bush in front of our house. It’s amazing this much snow could rest upon these small limbs — even deep within the bush and the almost vertical ones. Never underestimate the wonders nature can provide.

This year is almost over. I’ve certainly been aware of my blessings this year and I look forward to seeing what next year might hold. May it bring each of you good health, happiness and fulfillment!

15 Comments

  1. This bush without the snow probably wouldn’t look as good. Like fog, I think snow can be a great simplifier as a compositional tool.

    • I absolutely agree. That’s a big part of what draws me. I often find less detail can offer more impact…at least for me.

  2. I agree with Mark, also. Nature has a way of creating such beautiful patterns with snow and ice. As I’ve aged I’ve found it more difficult to stay in the cold to search out these beautiful images. Well done here, Earl. And, the black and white works!

    • Monte, Perhaps I’m getting myself conditioned a bit to the cold by going out for an hour each morning walking those dogs. They never even seem to notice the cold while I’m bundled up like it’s the arctic. Usually by the time we get back home I’ve forgotten about it too. Thanks!

  3. Those old bushes and trees can support tons of snow!

    • Yeah, Steve, it’s amazing isn’t it. There had to be 75-100lbs of snow on that bush (you can only see part of it in this photo) but I guess it’s all so evenly distributed. Happy New Year!

  4. The snow covered, even on tiny branches, transforms them into a thing of beauty. Fine shot.

  5. Nice to have Nature reminding us of those lessons about simplification. Much for me to think about. Thanks.

    • Anita, much I need to consider as well. It’s easy to drift off the path if I don’t keep focused. A Happy New Year to you!

  6. Earl, you have chosen a fine image for year’s end. Having lived all my life in a country, where winter marks a turning point in the year, I do fully enjoy a snow-clad landscape. And of course it is an excellent occasion for photography, too, even more as much of photography is a process of selection, of eliminating details to guide the view to the very substance.

    I wish you and your wife a Happy and Healthy New Year with enough energy to continue your important work.

    Markus

  7. A fine image, Earl. Happy New Year.

  8. I love these snow branch abstracts, well done! And have a Happy New Year!