Times Are Changing

Atlanta doesn't see much in the way of snow, so when it happens you take advantage of it.  But you have to be quick because it doesn't hang around for long.  While most folks were hiding out in their homes after the most recent snowfall in Georgia, I got up early and drove around taking photos of the transformed landscape.  There was very little traffic on the road which was a good thing, because in all honesty Atlanta drivers can't drive properly in the best conditions!  You know it's true...

So why am I writing about snow scenes at the tail end of the Southern US summer?  Because I recently drove past one of the places I photographed that morning - the pretty little lake shown below:

I liked the monochromatic feel of the foreground, with the blue of the shadows in the background.  The overhanging tree had prevented a small patch of lake from freezing over, leaving a nice reflection in the water.

But when I drove past that same place last week, to my surprise it was gone!  The little lake has been drained and a number of earthmovers have taken up temporary residence.  I'm sure that whatever takes its place will be lovely, but it made me realise how quickly and easily things change.

With that in mind, don't pass up any opportunity to capture the world and lives around you with your camera.  Places change, people grow and all you have left is memories and photographs.  That is, if you remember to take them.  What was it like when you were newly married, planting a garden, welcoming a new child or pet into your home?  What does the home you are growing up in look like?  It's never too early to start and your children's children will thank you for these precious images one day.

My brother has been scanning old photographs into digital format so that he can share them with the family.  Earlier this year we were looking through the dusty albums, remembering the times that went with the images and laughing at the goofy ones.  Now I thank my Mum for making us all pose for yet another photograph and also the people who took photos of my grandparents and great-grandparents, extended family and friends.

The holiday season is coming up, with friends and family gathering and spending time together.  Are you going to get out there and record some memories of people, places and fun times?  Because you never know when things are going to change, like 'my' little lake.