For a moment, the egret seemed to disappear into the darkness—leaving only its white feathers, its watchful eye, and the quiet swamp behind.
On my way to Middle Fork in Huntsville, I often pass an osprey nest where I spent hours this summer photographing the family of these amazing birds. The nest is empty now, but in the spring, it will be bustling and full of life.
Generally, life is good.
On the weathered slopes of the Wasatch Mountains, a solitary tree holds its ground against the wind and time. There is something beautiful in its quiet persistence.
Seeing a Sandhill Crane and following it into the marsh felt like a dream come true.
A tall pole stands topped with the massive nest of Osprey family. Below it, loose nesting materials dangle like tangled threads.
Now and then, little unfamiliar birds appear on these hanging strands, lingering for a heartbeat before flying away.
***
The idea to edit the scene in high key didn't come right away. But when, a photograph by the Finnish photographer Pentti Sammallahti surfaced in my memory, everything suddenly fell into place.
Of course—it had to be high-key. It would leave nothing but silhouettes and winding strands as compelling lines.
India, Delhi, 1999, Pentti Sammalahti
