Suffice it to say, that 2012 came out swinging and I caught an uppercut, followed by a roundhouse kick to the face. I’m in need of some serious peace. And it’s only the 13th. Friday the 13th, in fact, and every time Friday the 13th rolls around, I embrace it as the luckiest of lucky days, and count my blessings. I consider this a day to open my arms and collect some much needed power from the universe after all it has taken. So to celebrate the coexistence of power and peace, I decided to share this post with you.
One of the things I love about photography is the opportunity it affords me to get away from the daily grind. Whether it’s a trip to the mountains or a 15 minute lunch break, there’s nothing quite like getting into the shooting zone. You know the one. I prefer to shoot alone and two weeks ago, two days after my grandfather’s passing, I was able to don my new snowshoes and get back in touch with myself and more importantly; Mother Nature.
My grandfather loved the outdoors. He taught us kids so many things about the wilderness and appreciating the bounty and magic of our natural world. All of my most vivid childhood memories revolve around our family camping trips. Four families, camper vans, tents and a Winnebago… we road tripped all over the western states. Being the oldest of eight grandchildren, I most often had the privilege of riding in the front seat with Grampy. Well, a lot of the time anyway. I remember staring in awe, much as I do now at the scenery flying by as we trekked on our adventures. I still love road trips for that palpable excitement that comes with heading somewhere different and wonderful. And I still feel that childish anticipation on a drive into the Cascades, even though I’ve been here countless times.
Something about being in the woods, or on a mountain top looking out at the vast canvas that is our Mother Earth; somehow it feels easier to connect with something greater than ourselves. What better time than now to be seen by our loved ones from that other place? And now I can stand here in the snowy stillness, feeling contentedly like the only person on earth. It’s the best kind of feeling alone; the feeling of humbling smallness that returns your feet to the ground and your eyes to the horizon. It’s a time to breathe deeply and begin to heal. I am at the same time completely separate and irrevocably one with everything.
And this is where I can speak to him.
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However I may feel about the new Hipstamatic D-Series after using it for a few weeks (not entirely convinced), I think it’s clear this particular film and scenery were made for each other.
These images from my “winter cathedral” series were shot with the D-Series camera’s D-lite film. They are unedited except for cropping. Something about this series and the time I spent capturing these moments… I’m so completely enamored with them.
They instantly bring me back to peace.
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I’m so sorry for your loss. What wonderful memories to have, and gorgeous photos to help pay a beautiful tribute. Growing up, I spent every summer camping with my family in the cascades. How wonderful to see them all dressed up for winter 🙂
Thanks very much, Marita.
We live in such a beautiful region, it’s almost too easy to find scenery like this to shoot. 😉
Beautiful words and beautiful photos Rach. Love you.
Aww, Tomi I miss you. And your awesome hugs. Xo
Thank you Rachel for sharing these personal reflections here. You have personalised these wonderful pictures even further & elevated their magnitude. Despite the pain it currently dishes up, I hope this situation & experience ultimately conveys blessings to you & through you (as indeed has already happened above).
Nick, you’re always so kind. I truly appreciate your encouragement and your friendship. xo-r
You are talented, creative, caring and flat out beautiful Rachel.
Aww, I love you Kristi! Miss you and your beautiful family. Thanks so much for visiting my therapist. I mean, blog. 😉 Xox
Ohhh. Your photos are so beautifully timeless and sentimental. My love goes to you and your family dear lady. You clearly come from good stock. Xoxo
Crystalyn, you are such a thoughtful, lovely person.
I’m so glad to know you. Thank you very much for the kind words.
I feel the love. Xox
beautiful photography and words i can relate to. nice way to start my day, Thank you.
The pleasure is mine, David. And thank you for the lovely note.
Cheers,
– r
Loved reading your story. The pictures are absolutely stunning. I also love taking photos solo 🙂
Ah thanks very much, Mis!
Just had a look at your IG and it’s super dreamy. Very inspiring work. Mississippi looks like a wonderful place for solo photowalks. 😉
Be well,
– r
Beautifully said and captured, Rachel. Sending you lots of hugs and strength… xx
Thanks, B. Hugs are much appreciated…
– Xor