For the Spring 2020 issue of Michigan BLUE magazine, I am pleased to share an article I wrote and provided all photographs for, including the cover. The piece has some of my thoughts on wandering and seeing mixed with my personal experiences as a diver. My interest in photography intensified after getting certified in scuba diving in 1993, and I often credit some of those lessons I learned with how I approach anything I photograph today.
The world “down there” is so incredibly foreign, where animal life essentially replaces abundant terrestrial plant life that might surround you in a forest. Flora that we often take for granted. Quite frankly, it is sensory overload. There is SO much to look at, it can be hard to truly see any particular one thing. Think of an alien from Mars experiencing the Amazon rainforest for the first time.
Yet, “down there” isn’t such a separate world after all. The CO2 absorbed by our trees plays a role in the PH levels of our oceans. The dynamic, connected relationship on our planet must not be ignored. Certainly, it is reflected in writings for decades by philosophers such as Muir, Thoreau, and Carson – only to name a few. Seeing also comes with listening, with reading, with appreciation. Those connections will always be my muse.
I hope you enjoy it.
The Secret of Seeing – Michigan BLUE
Cover photo: Dwarf Lake Iris, a threatened species and Michigan’s state wildflower, growing only in certain coastal regions of the Northwoods. © Mark Graf
Congratulations, Mark, it’s a nicely written piece with great advice. Slowing down might be a little easier for some readers these days! The Hepatica in the birch is gorgeous. Stay safe and healthy, and keep creating.
I appreciate that Lynn. Hoping you and your family are staying safe as well.
Great article and a fine selection of images, Mark. Congratulations on the publication.
Many thanks Steve, glad you enjoyed it. Though it is kind of preaching to the choir w you folks 🙂
It’s good to hear the messenger just to reinforce what we know to be true. 🙂
Absolutely stunning images and engaging article, Mark. Congratulations to you and to Michigan Blue for their good taste. 🙂
Much appreciated Earl.
Congratulations, Mark. I read the article and loved what you had to say and how you said it. Great selection of images!
Thanks Monte!
Congratulations Mark. Wonderful article and fantastic images to accompany it. How appropriate for this time when we seemingly have all the time in the works because we can’t do the things we usually do. A good time to slow down and see the world around us.
Thanks! Indeed, these are definitely times to evaluate slowing down in so many ways.
Had a typo there….all the time in the world:)