New Arrivals Brighten The Season

These fuzzy swans herald the arrival of spring!

Spring is definitely my favorite time of year. While it may be cooler than I prefer, (I am a true desert dweller, I really do love it when the temps reach the 110's! Yes, really!) it is the optimistic time of year. It is a brief moment when all things are possible.

I know it is very cliched to say, but with the arrival of spring, it truly is as if a new beginning is laid out before us. The temperatures begin to climb so we all start to head outside. We trade the stale air of our closed up dwellings in search of the sweet aromas that have alighted on the soft breeze. We watch in wonder as the birds dance on air while trying to impress their potential mate. We discover the tiny blades of grass that have pushed their way to the surface. We gaze upon the emerging blooms as they unfurl atop the proud stalks that wave them like a banner. We explore the gardens filled with a kaleidoscope of colors with a mild trepidation, making sure to stay out of the way of the buzzing creatures who are staking their claim on each pollen-filled blossom. Yes, spring is truly magical.

A young sprout greets the day with open arms.

It's true. There are flowers in the desert.

A major part of the allure is the joy I get in witnessing all the quiet moments of new life that are developing before my eyes. I sit transfixed when the diminutive babies of the backyard begin making their first appearances. I'm not picky, I love all of them...furry, feathered, or covered in scales.

This little guy was too young to have any fear. He ran up to greet me as I entered his home.

It is difficult to see, but this mama was protecting her chick by shielding it behind an outstretched wing.

Mom stashed this juvenile mockingbird in the protective camouflage of the tree.

When it was time for breakfast, mom came back to make sure her baby would have plenty to eat.

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Magic is in the Air

Prom is a rite of passage in so many young lives.

Beautiful dresses sparkle in the soft lighting as music fills the air. 

The soft scent of flowers perfume the air while the showy petals decorate wrists and lapels.

The sweet smiles radiate from the faces of youth and eyes light up at the thought of what lies ahead and endless possibilities. It is a magical night, one last split second of innocence. 

Art is such a subjective term. What constitutes "art"? Art is around us all the time; however, in our rush to get through our daily lives we often overlook what is right before us. I believe everyday moments are perfect opportunities to create a personalized memento that is more than just a portrait. When I photograph people, I want to take the time to see beyond the obvious, go deeper that smiles and capture the essence that makes the person unique. 

We surround ourselves with art in our homes that fulfill us emotionally. We need a connection to the art that makes us feel something. We should look at our need for art from a different angle. 

My question is why does that piece need to be generic; a store-bought trinket that while pretty, does not hold a special place in our heart? Instead, we should envelop ourselves in genuine pieces that we hold dear and tell all visitors who we are and what we we cherish.

When is a photo more than a framed reminder of the time we got together and had a picture taken? A photo that tells a story, reminds us of "that time" and is finished with a delicate touch that transforms it into art.

 

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This Is Just The Beginning...

I am so proud to have one of my photos selected for Special Recognition in an International Art Competition. This is a real honor and very exciting!

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