The ability of nature to persist and overcome challenges is something that continues to amaze me. I remember, when I lived in Wyoming, driving to the Medicine Bow Mountains for the first time, and seeing the wind-battered pines that have been successful despite decades of cold temperatures, howling gales, and heavy snowfall. Many of them seemed to grow (albeit somewhat crookedly) out of solid granite. We read all the time about organisms that persist in some of the world’s most hostile environments (see here and here).
I just returned from a fantastic trip to southwestern Utah. High on the wall of a slot canyon, I noticed these trees–a maple and a piñon pine–clinging to the rock, about 60′ in the air. Surely, these trees have not had an easy life. While they probably never see flood water, they must deal with howling winds, freezing temperatures, and despite the creek beneath them, probably a paucity of water. Yet, they survive.
Persistence, June 2011
This sort of persistence becomes an instructive metaphor for photography, too. Although it may not be the easiest way to survive, these trees hang on and dig in with their roots, making a life for themselves. In much the same way, it is all too easy for a photographer to get caught up in making images of scenes that have been photographed many times before. The real art comes from years of persistence, when the image-makers dig deep into themselves, ask the tough questions about inspiration and creativity, and follow their heart. After all, your art should be about you. In much the same way as these trees have created art, the photographer does so…with a little persistence.
Excellent post Greg, and not just a metaphor for photography, but our own paths through life too.
Get stuck in, get up when you’re knocked down etc.
Something Guy and I talked about this week in our podcast interview…
great image too…
Great post, these trees made the canyon more beautiful.
Good thoughts Greg. I agree it’s a good metaphor for finding our path in our photography. I also agree with Alister — it’s a good metaphor for our path in life too. I’d say that more often than not the only difference between ‘can do’ and ‘can’t do’ is persistence.
The tenacity of plants in harsh environments always amazes me. If a seed can just find the smallest site to start, it’s amazing where they end up!
Hi, guys. I absolutely agree that this is a great metaphor for life, too. If I think back on my own, persistence is really what got me through many of the stickiest times.
Great post Greg. Nothing in life comes easily…for most of us anyway. Persistence and determination are qualities that serve us and all of life well.
I like that there are two trees, showing that this is not a rare occurrence, but that it can happen often and with the right persistence success is at hand.
The majority of people give up, while the few persist. This does not seem to be true for the natural world, although we wouldn’t ever hear about the animals or plants that didn’t succeed because they become food for others.
You make a really important distinction here, David. Humans, amongst over animals and plants, are the only organisms that have the option to “give up.”
However, whether the decision is made by the individual or by mother nature, your point is true…few persist.
Cheers,
Greg
Gorgeous shot, Greg. I like your balance of light and shadow. I thought David’s point was very good. We would probably be better off if we didn’t give ourselves the option of quitting.
Wonderful post, Greg.
Sharon
Thanks, Sharon!
The tenacity of Life is truly amazing. Good post Greg.
Well seen, Greg! It’s easy to take those spots of green on the canyon walls for granted, both in a photo and in person, but they’re pretty amazing when you stop to contemplate.
Thanks Jackson and Greg! I appreciate your comments and thoughts on the image!
Love that color and the shadows in the rocks, really appealing image.