Phew. A second trip got me what I wanted. Hepatica in bloom. The wind though was relentless and the light harsh, so my photographic options were somewhat limited, but I got a couple that I’m happy with. This first one is the same group of flowers in the trail that I shot on my first attempt. So lucky they weren’t crushed by an inattentive hiker. I had to wait until they were in the shade of a tree so that the detail wouldn’t be blown in the petals. The light is kind of strange; usually people put the shadow in the background, but I like the contrast.
This second one is bit unusual for a hepatica shot. I find that most people shoot them at the angle of the one in the background where the petal separation isn’t as obvious. But this little duo was in a perfect location, light-wise and I love those leaves so I had to include one. Standing on the hill, waiting for the wind to die down for a second so I could shoot was pretty peaceful. So much so that an enterprising and friendly garter snake came by to say hello. It wasn’t even aware of me in a way that threatened it and never stopped in its snakey glide on by in search of lunch. I love it when that happens. It feels so harmonious. Like I’m meant to be there and am not an intruder at all.
Really like the value and lean of that first one. The background makes me sigh.
Pretty flower. I hope I’ll find a picture of the garter snake, too. lol