Notes from the field :

This image is one of many created on a new journey into impressionistic imagery. It is a path that has no maps and not necessarily an end. I am not quite sure where it will take me, but am willing to take the trip. It involves a different way of seeing - a departure from the literal image into one of mystery and emotion. The creation process involves thinking in multiple layers of light and color. When viewing these images (and many more are bound to appear on the site), I hope you wonder not how the image was made, but how it makes you feel.

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About the subject :

This image was made at one of the Michigan Nature Association's preserves, named Timberland Swamp. This area has always had an abundance of fall color. When the leaves have fallen, the forest floor is just blanketed in various colors and textures. Some nearby ponds also offer opportunities for reflections, floating leaves, and ice crystals.

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Technical details :

Nikon F5, 80-200 f2.8 AF lens, Fuji Velvia film, tripod - image is as appears on the original 35mm slide, 10 exposures total

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About the composition :

1] Multiple exposures can be very unpredictable. Without a bit of experimentation, it is hard to determine the effect you will get. I happened to like the effect on the leaves because it reduced them into splashes of color, washing out some detail that simply makes them 'leaves.'

2] The reflection is a bit of reality in a dream world to give the image an anchor point.

3] The leaves intentionally frame the reflection to help create more of a connection between the two elements.

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