It's almost Halloween and I thought this would be the perfect picture to discuss during this spooky time of year! I shot this photograph in July during one of my walks through the Wildwood Park in Harrisburg, PA. My attention was immediately grabbed by the tree which is the focal point of this photo. It had such a unique and sinister quality to it which I found quite interesting. I snapped a few photographs (OK a bunch) but when I got home and began to process the shots from that day, the algae and surrounding trees were too bright. It did not have the eerie quality I had envisioned. Not wanting to give up that easily, I played around with the brightness, contrast, and color saturation, and voila! 'Helchgam's Swamp' was born.
The stillness and foreboding qualities of this photograph are intense, and I can't help but imagine that there is a horrible presence lurking somewhere in the waters beneath the still and protective covering of the algae. The saying 'the calm before the storm' comes to mind, and I feel like I'm just waiting for that inevitable moment when the demon bursts forth from the depths of the swamp and wreaks havoc on everything and anything in its path.
'Helchgam's Swamp' has been featured in two Etsy treasuries! Remember that you can get 10% off your purchase in my Etsy by entering the coupon code DISCOUNT10 during checkout :-)
The wonderful thing about art is that it speaks differently to everyone. Each person will get their own images and feelings when looking at a piece of art work. Photography is no different! I've told you how this piece speaks to me, and I'd love to hear your thoughts! Tell me what you see when you look into 'Helchgam's Swamp'.
Let your imagination soar.
~AEO
