IMAGE OF THE MONTH

DECEMBER 2023

Heavenly Winter Light

At the start of December, the weather forecast promised cold, crisp, snowy conditions, which set my mind racing with possibilities. The decision of where to capture these wintry scenes led me back to Aviemore, a location I had explored in the autumn. This time, however, I would be experiencing it without the vibrant autumn colors.

The conditions were perfect. I was blessed with soft, winter light and a thin layer of wispy mist that lingered close to sunset. The sun was very low in the sky, and I was momentarily disheartened, thinking I had missed the light catching the church and surrounding trees. Then, as if by magic, the sun emerged from beneath the clouds, casting beautiful side lighting across the landscape.

The scene was simply breathtaking, and I knew a panorama would be the best way to capture the expansive beauty before me. This experience reminded me of the ever-changing and often surprising nature of photography, where patience and timing can transform a moment into a masterpiece.