This image is, first of all, about color. The brilliance of the orange leaves against the subdued background yellows grabs the eye and pulls it quickly into the mage. These bright hues are what first attract attention. But the image is also very much about light. The bright leaves stand out not only because of their colorful hues but also because the darker trees that surround them recede into the background. The central tree is thus spotlighted, which emphasizes the attention focused on the principal feature of the image.
This scene is satisfying because of its balance. The darkened tree trunks on each side envelop the colored leaves in a gentle fold. The image was slightly defocused, adding a somewhat dreamy quality to the scene,. I find the image to be restful, a gentle interlude in an otherwise hectic and restless workaday world.
The photo was made on a bright, sunny day at New York’s Letchworth State Park, one of the natural jewels of the east coast. The leaves were at their peak brilliance. This image captures some of the magic of that special place and time.
I find intimate landscapes such as this one to be an effective counterpoint to the grand vistas that populate postcards and magazine illustrations. There is much beauty and delicacy to be found in small scenes. One of the goals of my photography is to capture these qualities in my images.
Prints of this photo are available for sale. The price is $95 for a matted 11 X 14 print on archival paper; shipping is included in the price. Contact me if interested.