Spring Textures

Flowers started blooming early this year here in Vancouver, British Columbia, with some coming out in February. Perhaps our mild winter was a result of climate change or caused by a combination of other factors. Whatever the case, the springlike weather has gotten me out to do more photography. On a recent stroll in my neighbourhood, I was attracted to the scene below by the bright yellow daffodils and the pleasing variety of textures, shapes, and shadows. 

 

 

 

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Back Alley Reflection

I always enjoy exploring the back alleyways in my quiet residential neighborhood as I never fail to come across details that I've managed to overlook. For instance, I usually pay little attention to this ordinary garage, but on a recent walk I noticed the reflection of colorful autumn foliage framed by its large glass window and was taken by how well the leaves blended in with the building's earthy tones. 

 

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Urban Dreams

I'm not usually a fan of sterile modern office towers. However, I enjoy photographing the reflections in their soaring glass walls. They can impart a dreamlike atmosphere by softening and bending the straight lines of the rigid urban landscape. I spotted this playful reflection of a building in another building while walking in downtown Vancouver, Canada, where I live. 

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White Lichens Abstract

At first I thought that someone must have painted the whimsical design on the rotting surface of this old tree stump. However, a closer look revealed that the pattern was created by white lichens that were growing amongst the many cracks and grooves. Mother Nature's artwork can be found almost everywhere we look. 

 

  

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Katsura Tree in the Fall

The fall is my favourite time for photographing deciduous trees. Not only are their leaves often turning brilliant colours, but also, with the sun low in the sky, the play of light and shadow in their branches can be very dramatic as in this image of the delicate leaves of a Katsura tree that are slowly changing from green to yellow. Nothing stays the same for long in nature. 

 

 

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Maple in Midsummer

This majestic maple tree stands in a park near where I live. I usually like to photograph it in the autumn when its leaves turn golden. However, recently I was strolling through the park and noticed the sun shining brightly through the maple's topmost branches, creating a powerful reminder that the height of summer can be a time of hope and strength. 

 

 

 

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Old Weathered Fence

As I grow older and become more aware of my mortality, I'm increasingly drawn to things that bear the marks of time such as this old weathered fence that I came across recently. It's comforting to discover that there is often great beauty and even strength to be found in the natural process of ageing.

 

 

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Weathered Wall Abstract

When I spotted this abstract design on the peeling wall of a building, I was taken with the tension created by its contrasting colours and shapes. Now when I ponder this image for any length of time, I start seeing fanciful creatures playing or even fighting. What do you see?

 

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Spring Reflections

I started off with the intent of doing a closeup of these spectacular pink rhododendrons. Then I noticed their reflection in the window next to them and decided to step back and include it in the frame, which made for a more interesting composition. It always pays to pay attention...

 

 

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Weathered Wall

I came across this weathered wall at an old abandoned house not far from where I live and was taken with the scaly pattern formed by the peeling paint, which vividly shows the ravages of time. Over the years, the owners have let the large property gradually fall into a state of disrepair. It probably won't be long before the house gets torn down, so I plan to return with my camera to continue exploring the unexpected beauty that so often accompanies neglect and decay.

 

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