Upon Reflection . . .

Water, in its various forms, has long been one of my favorite subjects. Waterfalls. Rivers and creeks. Lakes. And occasionally, icicles and snow. All of these can provide both opportunities and challenges for interesting images. When I’m around a stream or a lake, I try to be aware of reflections that can be a part of my digital canvas. Over the years, I’ve found several factors that help yield optimal reflections.

Aspens, Red Mountains reflected in Crystal Lake  -  Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado

The clearer the water, the better reflector it will be. Water that contains a lot of sediment or impurities will generally not reflect light as well as water that is free of these things. I’ve also found that calm areas reflect better than turbulent ones. And, though it seems fairly obvious, water can only reflect what can be seen from it.

Reflection, Tellico River  -  Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee

I’ve found similar factors to be true for me in the life of faith. I can best reflect God’s love and hope when my life is free from sin and other impurities. When I am at peace with God, it is much easier for Him to use me. And the closer I am to God, the clearer His image will be to others.

Fall colors reflected in trout pond  -  Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina

I do enjoy photographing reflections. But it is more important that I be a good reflector of God’s light.