Topsmead State Forest 8-13-2014

Hiking the perimeter trails at Topsmead always delivers classic New England pastoral views, especially out by the open hay pastures and outbuildings. I set up low behind an old fieldstone boundary wall to use the weathered rocks as a solid grounding element for the composition. The quiet afternoon atmosphere and wide-open sky called for a monochrome treatment to highlight the textures.

The black and white photo contrasts dark, rugged boulders in the lower frame against a vast meadow of tall summer grasses leading to rustic barns. Rolling cumulus clouds drift across the upper sky, adding depth and soft contrast behind the evergreen pines and classic farm buildings sitting across the horizon.