While hiking along the Virgin River Gorge, Utah I found myself a bit winded and in need of a well deserved rest. It is not uncommon as I hike to make an effort to keep my head up to capture what lies ahead. Although, sometimes I find myself walking along some very narrow trails. In an effort to keep myself and my camera gear from making our own trail off the edge of a cliff I chose to focus on what was under foot. Upon finding a secure place to rest I began to unload my gear and I noticed the dryness of the earth.  I found the pattern and the contrast of the pieces against the crevices the perfect presentation for a black and white print.  

       Recently, I received a letter from a client that had taken one of my classes many years ago and since then married and started a family.  Since research suggests that high contrast shapes and patterns will stimulate a newborn’s vision one of my prints was purchased to accent the nursery.  The high contrast between the crevices and pieces of dried mud can offer stimulation to both the young and old.

Remember to look all around you while enjoying nature. Take a break on your hikes and take the time to see.  Seeing the dry cracked earth beneath me in black and white was more stimulating than the reality.  It’s not always your destination that is worthy of a photograph, sometimes you’ll find it on the journey.