Yesterday, I got up early, and went out to photograph in -19° C (-2° F) weather. It promised to be the only clear sunny day for some time, so I was eager to get out.
I headed out to the Ottawa River, to photograph the area around Victoria Island. It was very cold out, but I was invigorated by the light and fog along the river. After that, I went further downtown, and photographed the ice sculptures that were on display for Winterlude, as well as some scenes along the Rideau Canal.
After being outside for over three hours, I was tired and ready for a meal, so I headed home. I decided to drive along the Ottawa River Parkway, a beautiful drive along the Ottawa River. The cold temperatures and open water along the various rapids on the river had produced some fantastic scenery by coating the trees with frost, and I enjoyed the drive. As I passed a bridge across the river, I saw some beautiful trees on an island in the river. I knew that I could cross the bridge and park on the island for another photographic session, but I was tired, and ready to call it a day.
I drove past the bridge, and continued along the parkway. The thought of the frost on the trees stayed with me, however, and after a few more minutes of driving, I decided to turn back, and take a closer look at the island.
I drove back to the island, parked the car, and spent another hour photographing the trees on the island. There were so many great photographs there, it was hard to decide where to start.
I'm really glad I had the persistence to go back and spend more time and effort (and had some spare capacity left on my flash card!) on the island. The weather conditions were perfect, and the photographic opportunities were fantastic. It proved to be the best location of the day.
. . . Rob Williams
http://www.robwilliams.ca