Winter Flowers (March 2023)
Hello everyone, it’s me, still pregnant! By the time you read this, I might already be in labour. Who knows!
Here’s a long overdue update on Winter Flowers. Last year, just when I had lost all hope for a white winter, it snowed in March. The daffodils had finished blooming, trees were budding - it was a glorious time. And there was no better place to admire its beauty than at the botanical garden, which is within walking distance from where I live.
If photographs can be a mood tracker of sorts (they are to me), this season of Winter Flowers reflects a happier, brighter vibe compared to past years. At least that’s my interpretation, knowing what I know, remembering how I felt. Usually, these walks helped me through depressive slumps, but this time I was already feeling good. Making these photos was joyful and childlike.
As Winter Flowers grows, I not only start noticing patterns in composition and repeating colour schemes but also get to learn more about the plants in my area. I couldn’t have predicted this back when I started in 2021. I love watching the beauty of such a long-term, almost cataloguing type of project unfold through time.
We haven’t had any real snow this year, but even if it did snow I’m not sure I’ll be able to go out and take pictures. Maybe the only winter flower this year is going to be my daughter (forgive the cheesiness).
A few links:
Wilson A. Bentley took the first image of a single snowflake in 1885. A video on snow squalls from photographer Noah Kalina who has a no-skip YouTube channel now.
Thank you for sticking around despite my inactivity this past year. I feel ready and energised to start a new chapter! I hope to bring a more introspective and motherly perspective both in life and my photography.
My daughter will be here any day now and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little bit nervous. Keep us in your thoughts.
Love and snowflakes,
Alina
Wonderful work, Alina. Thank you!
How beautiful! Glad to have found your Stack, recommended by Andy at Flakphoto :) And best wishes on this exciting new step in your journey!
"this season of Winter Flowers reflects a happier, brighter vibe compared to past years" That's so interesting you noted the different moods! I've never really thought about that, and I always enjoy winter - but I am actually currently experiencing winter at a low point, and I see what you mean looking back over winter photos. Still lovely though :)
I appreciate the link to the science of snowflakes. Snowflakes are a favorite subject of mine, though my opportunities to make photos of them are rare - this year I had a special treat when a snowflake garden grew on my windshield! You can visit the images here, if you like :) https://sydneymichalski.substack.com/p/just-when-you-think-youve-seen-it. Congratulations again!