The Appeal of Snow

I take a lot of photographs.  A lot.  Both for business and for pleasure.  And I am different than most midwesterners seem to be about the weather.  I always find it funny how, when in the midst of a sweltering summer, people (including television news crews) seem to find great pleasure in complaining about the heat.  And then, six months later, they gripe about the snowdrifts.  And yes, I am sure there are people who prefer one over the other--this time of year the population appears to run high to those who want to live on a palm tree shaded island.  But, I am not one of them. 

I like all of it, really.  Hot weather brings great opportunity for infrared work, comfortable outdoor photography, and wonderful underwater photography.  Spring and Fall each have their merits as well, from the newborn leaves just hazing the April tree branches to the piles of red, gold, and tangerine leaf piles that mountain up in everyone's yard come October.  There is always something to shoot.  Wintertime has a special charm as well. 

First of all, if you have decent snow, you have the perfect world for classic black and white photography of all types.  Simply because there is so much white.  Then, when working with people, there are so many fabulous clothing opportunities--chunky knits in great colors juxtaposed with all that vast whiteness just look good.  And the regular world just looks different with a 6 inch coating of white snow---the ordinary becomes a winter cathedral.  And just like in underwater photography, people of all ages become children again when plopped in a snow drift.  Opportunities are everywhere, as long as you keep your batteries warm and bag your camera before you come inside. 

All of these samples were taken in the last few weeks here in Southwest Iowa  for various purposes, but it strikes me how different they are, even though all were made in the snowy surround.  Depending upon lighting, location, activity, and purpose, as well as the ranging weather conditions, they are each a varied expression of the same season.  

I can't imagine living anywhere else--I love all of the seasons.  Winter is maybe my favorite though.  At least until spring.  And then summer.  Of course, there's always fall.....