Water has always been at the heart of my photography. My latest images continue this tradition.
water leads to adventure
After the success of last years calendar featuring bikes I knew I wanted to create one for 2027. But rather than have the images evolve randomly out of my Exploring the Red Thread workshop – I’m creating this one with intention. Which is why I’m going back to my roots.
There has always been a strong water thread running through my photos. I’m sure that’s because I’ve grown up around and on water. Everywhere I look there’s water! Probably because Seattle is sandwiched between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. There are countless lakes and rivers that feed this ecosystem. Each one is a potential location for a toy boat photography adventure.
In the beginning
This spirit of adventure is at the heart of my photography. Whenever the kids and I would venture to local beaches and lakes, the toys would always come along. Setting up scenes for photographs was my way to stay busy while they explored.
I soon began to appreciate nature on a whole new level. I had no idea there was this amazing and magical world available to me if I was willing to get down and look. Of course not everyone wants to or is even able to lay on the ground for a photo. But I get to share this magical world with anyone willing to take a moment to view my photographs.
Best of both worlds
My kids are now adults and left the world of toys long ago. But I continue to explore the magical world of macro photography and toys. And this year I decided to go back to my origins and start hiking with toys again. I’ve traded my favorite park’s magical puddle for the unpredictable delights of mountain lakes and streams.
I’ve been going on near weekly hikes with the ex and Suka our co-owned dog. They’re both patient with me as I play in a lake or creek with my toys.
I’ve been rewarded with not only amazing photos – but fantastic memories. By returning to the roots of my photography practice (water and nature) I’m reclaiming my joy. Plus I get to enjoy the natural beauty of this place I call home.
More than boats
I’m really enjoying creating these new boat themed images. It’s been awhile since I’ve had this much fun and excitement around planning my photos. Even though I have hundreds of boating images I want to challenge myself to create new photographs. Because this is where I find my joy.
Speaking of challenges. This year I’m also challenging myself to learn Photoshop to do more than remove supports. I’ve been exploring adding textures, maps and other symbols to see if I can expand my stories even more.
I’m curious to see where this path takes me as I expand my skills. But for the moment I’m not worrying about the future. I’m simply enjoying the process.
Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments below.
“For the ocean is big and my boat is small. Find the courage.”
– Alanis Morissette