It is truly a shame that much of the west is in an epic drought because the conditions continue to provide the most stunning luscious days and cool nights.  Walk anywhere and people will say "Isn't the weather gorgeous?" and "I would like the weather to be like this all year."  Of course it can't and won't and should not, given the fact that moisture is desperately needed, but we'll enjoy it until then.

2020 has been quite the year in too many ways to address here.  But the genus Populus - which includes aspen and cottonwoods - is taking the yellow color spectrum to a whole new level.  I photograph them nearly every day when they are near or at their prime.  Two more images are included here. Stucco walls offer a nicely textured backdrop for them.

Speaking of backdrops, I have also been working with fallen leaves in numerous colors, shapes, and sizes as backdrops for a variety of things, including more roses.  It was particularly interesting to photograph both new, fresh, roses and then use them after they were the same relative dryness as the leaves.  That touch of home-grown rosemary gifted to us along with the roses added a nice touch.

And finally, the roses as they dry against the already dried leaves of autumn

I have a recommendation for all people interested in photography and photo-journalism.  Although the book Obama was published in 2017 by Pete Souza, the NBC networks aired their documentary "The Way I See It" this week, about Souza's life as presidential photographer for both the Reagan and Obama administrations.  Souza is probably one of the best photographers and photo-journalists of our time, and he knew his mission - to present a clear history and story for the two presidents he covered.  The documentary is moving and beautiful, and if you have not seen it, I would highly recommend doing so.  The book should be required reading for all photographers.

Thanks to Terry T., Barbara, Wayne, TTT, Catherine, Debra, Jean and Sam, Steve, Ryley A., and Ingrid and Robert for your contributions to last week and this week's blog.

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@