The Cabin; A Refuge And A Photo Inspiration:
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When I manage to break away from White Pond my choice is either to hike on the endless trails that lead me into vast wilderness areas or to get in the car and slowly cruise along some of the local backroads. Both endeavors have certain advantages. It will usually boil down to my frame of mind and present lighting conditions.

Hiking in the woods with my camera around my neck allows all of my senses to go into overdrive. Observing the light all around me, I look in every direction, not knowing where my next shot will be. Hearing the wind, smelling the pine, and touching the damp moss strengthen my heart while visually stimulating me even more.

Naturally Abstract

I experience real solitude in the dead of winter on White Pond. When I pause to look at life up close I am able to see the intricate patterns of nature.

I love kayaking around White Pond because it brings me close to the wildlife that I have gotten to know so well through the years and can learn to anticipate through my daily rituals. Frogs, turtles, herons, otters, and dragonflies are all photographed at different times of the year. To be so close to the water and see the reflections of light and patterns is an experience I never tire of.

Different seasons lead to new opportunities and adventures. In the winter, since the road is closed in the off-season it is not uncommon for us to sled all of our belongings and food down to the cabin. Keeping the wood stove burning around the clock and drilling a hole in the thick ice for water are all part of the daily routine. Fresh snowfall on pine trees, close-ups of 2-foot icicles, and animal tracks on the trails all make good subject matter.

Winter Forest

A two-mile trail from the cabin leads to the Pearce pine forest. In this tranquil setting I was attracted to the great contrast of the dark trees with the bright snow and misty background.

Nature is a major force behind my happiness and photographic pursuits. It has always been in my blood and now the older I get the more I seem to appreciate and seek it out. The cabin affords me shelter and access to a world where the rhythms of life can be easily observed. The camera is an extension of my heart and mind and it is in the remote and wild places that my vision remains its sharpest. I greatly look forward to the next 50 years expanding upon this body of work for future generations to look at and reflect on.

For more information regarding Daryl Hawk, please visit his website at: www.darylhawk.com.