The Tree of Light
When spring comes after a long Wisconsin winter a person is itching to get outside, get away, breathe fresh air, and explore new territory. This was just the case a few years back. Some friends and I had planned to attend a large conference several states south, but when those plans changed we decided that we had to do something!
We already had the time off of work so we decided on a mini-vacation a bit closer to home. We traveled along the Mississippi River to the wonderful little town of Lake City, Minnesota. Sure, it wasn’t as far south as we had wanted, but it was a little bit south so that was something.
We spent time exploring Lake City. It’s a great little town you should check out if you’re in the area. We ate at a yummy little cafe, walked along the Mississippi River, watched sunsets – and even a sunrise, discovered a coffee shop, browsed an eclectic book store, and explored area parks.
One perfect afternoon found us in Frontenac State Park. I’m sure we only explored a fraction of the large park, but what we did explore was beautiful. We stopped to take pictures along the cliffs overlooking the Mississippi. What a view! The river sparkled below and the cliffs on the other side stretched high. Barges and sailboats made their way along the waves as eagles and hawks soared lazily over our heads.
As we meandered along a small path leading to the woods I stopped short. It was as if God had turned a spotlight on this incredible tree. I could almost hear mood music playing somewhere in the background. Da da-da DA!
Often afternoon light is harsh and you don’t get the greatest photos, however the lighting on this tree was fantastic. The buds were just starting to bloom and the little baby leaves were lit up as if they were Christmas lights hanging on the otherwise bare branches.
I plopped myself down in the middle of the path, legs straight out in front of me. I leaned forward as far as I could, then looked up through my lens to capture this unique view of a tremendous tree. Oh yes, I looked ridiculous, but that’s the life of a photographer. You do what it takes to get the shot!
And that, my friends, is the story of how I captured The Tree of Light. (Click to Tweet)
Until we meet again,
Josie
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