Friday, November 7, 2008

Thematic Photographic 23 --- Autumn: Vineyards


Thematic Photographic #23 is all about autumn. Carmi at Written, Inc. has challenged us to stretch our mental and photographic imagery of this beautiful season. I still consider autumn to be a gift, which is best enjoyed when opened slowly, to be savored as nature performs her magic. A colorful finale just before she draws a blanket of snow over her and takes a well-deserved rest.

The autumn colors in southwest Missouri were not as vibrant as in years past. I do have some photos, not yet downloaded, taken just before a strong storm stripped the remaining leaves off the trees. But I'll get to those later.

My brother Rick lives in the Portland, Oregon area, an area notorious for towering trees, thick with foliage, that bursts with color every fall. He sent me some of his photos. This area is also lauded for its wineries. I have seen many vineyards, but apparently just during the summer months, because I've never considered their beauty in the fall. Well, Rick sent me some photos that show a whole different side of the wineries --- and also explains why he won't consider leaving the great Northwest. Oh, yes, Rick also advised that 2008 will be a very good year for wine.


Rick is also a fan of Thematic Photographic, though in the ranks of blurkers. So, in a break with tradition, I am showcasing my brother's photography skills today. (Surprise, Rick!)




Country roads like this are always intriguing. They quietly wind through the hills, covered in a canopy of trees, with promises of more visual treats around each curve.
The trees of the Northwest are gigantic! These sentries make the picnic tables look like toys!

Looking closely at this photo you will see a pine tree with the branches of a deciduous tree reaching through it. During the summer this might not stand out, but the autumn colored leaves appear as garland, previewing the season of Christmas trees to come.

Thanks, dear brother, for providing some great shots for this week's theme.

Be sure to play along and show your fall images. Click here for the rules and be sure to check out the comments to view others' contributions. Check out PastorMac's Ann from the Land of Enchantment for some very fun fall events in her area.

8 comments:

Mamie said...

These photographs are absolutely divine! Your juxtopositions are so interesting. Thanks for sharing them. Perfect for the theme.

gina said...

these are gorgeous! i especially like the 1st and 4th ones. this is a photo challenge i need to check out soon. :) wonderful pix.

me said...

I guess talent runs in the family huh? The first photo kind of looks like a painting to me, the more I look at it the more I can't decide. PS - is the family above yours?

Barbara said...

mamie, thank you for stopping by. am proud of my brother for capturing these photos... he's got a good eye!

gina, the top photo is my favorite, too. You really should join us! It's great fun!

me, I am very fortunate to come from an artistic family. I like that Rick is sharing his photos --- actually, he doesn't know these are posted yet. The first photo really does look like a painting! Oh, and those cute little characters in the title block, yeah, they are relatives but, sshhhh, we don't talk about them much. ;-)

Baba said...

Hi Barb, wow.. these Fall shots are great!! I love the last two the best with all of the beautiful colors..thanks for your visit to my place today.... Baba

PastormacsAnn said...

Oh my! These pictures are AMAZING!! That first one - wow! Terrific pictures for Carmi's autumn challenge and how nice to be able to showcase your son's photography skills.

Thanks for dropping by for a visit and thanks a million for the "shout-out!" I really really appreciate your kindness.

Blessings!

Nestor Family said...

Wow! Talent DOES run in the family! These are beautiful!

carmilevy said...

Damn, Rick has serious photographic chops. These all "pop" off the screen and burn their way into the eye. His compositional style is extraordinary. No need to lurk anymore, Rick: your work hangs with the best of them!

Here's a neat coincidence: my name means "my vineyard." Ironic given that I've never been much of a drinker. But I've long loved these places where every step brings another incredible view, and tiny fruits of the earth are turned into incredible bottles of wine.

Thank you, Barb, for sharing Rick's work. I can't wait to see more.