The Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is a visual feast, where the zoo transforms into a vibrant display of illuminated sculptures that bring animals, plants, and nature-inspired designs to life. Each lantern is a work of art, crafted with intricate details and vivid colors that make photographing them a unique experience. The glow of these sculptures against the night sky creates a magical atmosphere, offering endless inspiration for capturing the beauty and wonder that captivates visitors of all ages.
Labor Day in Ann Arbor brings a mix of locals, students, and visitors to downtown and campus, all enjoying the last stretch of summer. Downtown has a steady flow of people browsing shops. On campus, students and families make the most of the holiday before classes start. The scene is busy yet laid-back, with plenty to capture—from the activity on the streets to the quiet moments around campus buildings, already showing the first signs of fall.
Albion’s campus in the fall is picturesque, with trees lining the walkways in shades of orange, red, and gold. The historic buildings stand out against the autumn colors, and the whole campus takes on a crisp, vibrant feel. Fallen leaves scatter across the paths, and there’s a quiet energy as students move between classes or gather outside, taking in the cooler weather. It’s a season that brings out the charm of the campus and highlights its blend of natural beauty and classic architecture.
Night photography offers unique moments with each natural element. Capturing the Milky Way requires dark, clear skies, revealing its dense star clusters and cosmic dust bands that stretch across the frame. The moon, on the other hand, brings out a serene glow over landscapes, illuminating details in ways daylight can’t. When photographing the aurora, you get bursts of color that dance unpredictably, with shades of green and purple shifting across the horizon. A waterfall at night adds a dynamic touch—softened by long exposure, it contrasts beautifully against the night’s stillness. Each element brings out different moods and textures, offering a fresh challenge and a distinct perspective with each shot.
Barton Park in winter transforms into a quiet, monochromatic landscape, perfect for black-and-white photography. Bare trees stand stark against the snowy ground, their branches creating intricate patterns in the soft light. The river flows steadily, contrasting with the frozen surroundings, and light snow blankets the trails, making them almost disappear into the scenery. Shadows and textures take on a new depth in black and white, highlighting the peaceful stillness that winter brings to the park. Each photo captures the quiet beauty of Barton Park’s winter landscape, emphasizing the simplicity and calm of this season.
