Friday, August 28, 2009

Spring Loaded

You've Really Had A Growth Spurt

Photographs copyright: DAVID McMAHON


The Australian winter is almost over, with spring only a few days away. Our days are already noticeably longer - and the frosts have receded. It's been a while since we had ice, too.

But of course, because our weather is so unpredictable, we had sleet and hail in a storm on Tuesday night that left our gardens snowy white - a snap change in the weather that had 1400 calls to emergency crews in Melbourne alone.

This shot, taken in a friend's garden, is a simple depiction of new growth and natural regeneration. Come Tuesday and we'll be ushering in the first day of spring.

I shot three frames in this sequence, but I reckon the first one probably says it best, with the tender burgundy shoots appearing tall and proud from a pruned branch. I deliberately chose my angle, to make use of the subtle diagonals in the background and to include the fresh green of the diosma about two or three metres away.


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14 comments:

Cecily R said...

Beautiful! I LOVE seeing real reds in nature!

Willow said...

Hurray for spring! New leaves are full of promise!

Gaelyn said...

It is nice to see signs of spring on its way. However, that means fall is coming here followed by winter. I'm not ready for that. Nice composition.

Chris said...

Spring comes next week? That's just cruel -- we're on the downward slope here in the Northern Latitudes.
I love the simplicity of that first shot -- it's just life.






My word verification is "prevent." They're not even trying anymore.

James said...

Beautiful!

tiarastantrums said...

I bet you can't wait to see the Diosma bloom!

Alyson | New England Living said...

Lovely! There is nothing like the promise of spring to lift the spirits, is there?

Thank you, David, for the comment you left on my blog. It really touched me. I'm overwhelmed by the kindness I've been receiving and you are a big part of that. Thanks again! :)

Sharon Rose said...

Ah Spring! When everything comes to life again! I am excited for you guys!

imac said...

Great shot David, Happy Sring time.

Shadow said...

it's wonderous to see how nature tells us 'spring's here!!!'

Mimi said...

I love the way the out-of-focus shoots in the background echo what's going on in the sharp focus one in the foreground.
And you're right- the green is a good contrast.
As always, fabulous eye and fab photography. Welcome spring- we're at the opposite end- days getting shorter, I'm envious!

Maggie May said...

Little signs of Spring are so encouraging. It is my favourite season.
Unfortunately your Spring means that we will be experiencing our Autumn.
England has not experienced a good summer but then I get easily wilted in the heat! Bit like a lettuce!

Raise Them Up said...

What a great shot! Happy Spring to you down there! :)

Carrie and Troy Keiser said...

such great colors! Happy spring to you as we are fading to fall here.