“Rocky Mountain Columbine”

On By Mike U.In Poetry
Rocky Mt. Columbine, Taylor Mesa, SW Colorado (c) Mike Utley

F38-1(S)–Rocky Mt. Columbine, Taylor Mesa, SW Colorado
This is my favorite flower. It grows up in the mountains where it’s cooler and shady. In the summers you can find meadows covered with columbine of various colors, including variations of purple, yellow and even red. This columbine was found growing beneath the lower branches of a dying conifer, whose brown needles serve to magnify the brilliant purple, white, yellow and green of the flower. (Canon gear, Fuji Velvia ISO 50)

27 thoughts on ““Rocky Mountain Columbine””

    1. Thanks, Mark. As much as I enjoy grand vistas, I think my favorite type of nature photography dealt with more intimate subjects like wild flowers, which I consider “nature’s haiku.” Close-ups of wild flowers and other small subjects reveal a whole new world of beauty and detail. I loved hiking through forests and meadows and deserts as I looked for these little haiku. Even in the arid expanse of the Colorado Plateau, wild flowers proliferate. It’s amazing what can be seen when one takes time to look. This particular columbine was literally hiding in the shadows of a dying conifer on the side of a dirt road. Of all the wild flower images I made, this is my favorite. Beauty can be found anywhere if we’re willing to look for it. πŸ™‚

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    1. Thanks Terveen. It does resemble a ballerina… These flowers are magical (and happen to be the official flower for the state of Colorado). Imagine a mountain meadow filled with purple and white ballerinas performing an alpine ballet! πŸ™‚

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    1. Thanks, Xenia. I’m quite enamored of this flower, and the purple-white-yellow-green combo is so striking. I’m reminded of pin-wheels. I imagine your area has some lovely flowers (I can visualize Eivor and Pearl sniffing blossoms during their morning walks!). πŸ™‚

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    1. Thanks, Reena. You’re right–it’s so much more than just “clicking a button.” I believe my deafness helped me see the world in a different way as I had to rely on my vision so much more to compensate for my hearing loss. I’d notice things in nature that others might ignore or not even see. It fostered a deep appreciation for the visual beauty of the natural world. So much work goes into nature photography; so much is out of the photographer’s control; timing, weather and location are crucial, not to mention an understanding of the technical aspects of photography. Nature photography allowed me to impose order on a very chaotic world, to express some deep longings and desires and give them a visual representation, and to share my love of the natural world with others. Your kind words are so appreciated. πŸ™‚

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    1. Thanks, man. I included this image in my calendars and greeting cards back in the day, but it would look amazing as a large print or poster. I don’t know if you’re familiar with the Taylor Mesa area (located between Dolores and Telluride), but if you ever get the chance, check it out. πŸ™‚

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