Today the Process Worked

Lately my photographic efforts have been less on documenting what I see and more on creating images that reflect what I am feeling. More often than not, the process of making something others can view and understand based on an emotion is challenging and requires multiple attempts.

This morning my mood, with my camera in hand, was to create something that - no matter when I see it - reminds me of one of my favorite pastimes - paddling a canoe. I wanted the final image to look good on a computer screen as a background or as a canvas print hanging on a wall. The completed work had to nudge the emotional nerve that instantly puts me in the outdoor mode... to make me remember my time on the water. Or, the image should make others think of their experiences on the water. with a paddle in hand. The image had to speak without uttering a word.

Since my goal was more for art than accuracy, I allowed myself to do what editing was necessary to create the idea in my mind. With that liberty I have two versions to share. At this time I have no preference. Both do what I want them to do. Both images put me in the mood. Either image causes me to reflect. Today the process worked.