Shooting in the Rain…
Since I last updated, one week ago, the forest has completely changed. Instead of dry duff, the ground is covered in growth. Canada Mayflower, wild oats, and some ferns are peaking out. I’ve seen spring beauty, trillium, marsh marigolds and even an anemone in bloom since last post…all VERY early…about two weeks early in fact.
We found two species to photograph yesterday, trailing arbutus, and one of my favorites…bloodroot!
Trailing arbutus is tough to shoot, as the blooms are waxy in appearance and lack contrast, height and depth. They grow along the ground, and are often among less than photographic surroundings. The rain didn’t help. When it’s raining, my patience is short, and fumbling under umbrellas holding filters, and balancing so as not to crush plants becomes almost too much. I still haven’t gotten a great shot of this species, but this one shows it’s nature off well. On a side note…these are supposed to have a fine fragrance to them…I can’t smell it?!?!
Trailing Arbutus (Mayflower)
Bloodroot is a different story. There’s nothing frustrating about shooting this plant (except for finding it). It’s simply beautiful. The leaves artistically unfurl about the time that the plant blooms, giving the opportunity for amazing compositions. Even though it only opens in sunlight, I was happy to shoot it in the rain. I’ll be back to this spot when more opens up…I didn’t want to walk to/through the main patch for fear of stepping on emerging plants…
Bloodroot in the Rain
A final note on shooting in the rain. Keeping things dry becomes next to impossible, and my bag was soaked. If you go out shooting in the rain…do not leave your camera and lenses in the bag to dry when you get home. Lenses can be notorious for growing fungi inside of them in warm/tropical areas, and a wet camera bag in a house is a great tropical simulator.
This morning, my stuff is all dried out and ready to go this weekend. Wish the wind would stop though!
