Fire is a subject that’s never really been displayed in my photography. I got into taking pictures of water droplets a while ago during our months of rain (I plan to do a blog post soon about this – also see the photo of the month for July 2022, Imperfect, Perfect Parallels), but I didn’t start featuring fire and playing with its artistry until recently.
Summers usually bring evenings warmed by campfires (unless there’s a fire ban, common these days, especially if you live in western Canada), where families and friends gather to share words, music, and a collective space. Backyard campfires have always been a summer tradition in my family, and the flickering flames mesmerize me.
This year I started to photograph the flames, sparks, and ashes of our bonfires – and was honestly amazed at what was captured. There’s something hypnotizing and utterly spectacular about fire. It’s a sort of magic that’s been with us for more than thousands of years, and yet we’re still enchanted by it. At least, looking through the lens of my camera with wonder, I am.
Wow, I love that shot where you mention the oil in the cedar boughs. You can almost feel the intensity of the heat from some of the pictures! Another really cool post Hazel. Phoenix rising from the ashes comes to mind…
Thank you, Mom! I appreciate your comment. I also thought of phoenixes while writing this post.