Photographer: Valerie McKinley, Bothell, Washington Image Title: Vine Maple Category: Plants   Technical Details: Nikon N90S, Nikon 28-105mm lens, Kodak EPY (tungsten) film Location: The woods in my backyard, Bothell, Washington Description: My family is fortunate to live on the edge of a small patch of forest; for us, these woods are both playground and sanctuary. The neighborhood kids call Vine Maples the "Magic Trees". Unfortunately, as humans race to develop every available inch of land, suburban wild spaces like this are rapidly shrinking or disappearing altogether. I enjoy exploring movement created by the wind - the results are mostly unpredictable and full of surprises. For me, this photo captures the simplicity of leaves dancing quietly in the soft breeze of a warm summer day.   "Listen to the air. You can hear it, feel it, smell it, taste it … the holy air, which renews all by its breath." - John Lame Deer, from Earth Prayers   Whether photographing nature or people, I respond most to the simple grace, beauty and energy I see in my subject. I enjoy playing with alternative processes and a variety of films, as well as exploring the endless possibilities of the digital darkroom.   I started my career as a newspaper photojournalist, and my work has been printed in numerous regional and national publications. Currently, I publish a line of fine art prints and greeting cards and also work as a freelance portrait and wedding photographer in the Seattle area. My photography has been shown in numerous juried shows, including AKA Photography and the Northwest Exhibition of Environmental Photography.   Valerie McKinley Phone: 425-338-0544 E-mail: mckinleyphoto@hotmail.com   Return to 2003 Galleries | Return to 2003 Plants Gallery     Home | Contact Us | Copyright