Italian Spring

I’m almost too embarrassed to post these. Not because I think they’re substandard, it’s just that pictures of flowering blossoms seem such a cliché.

Too explain: when I’m travelling, I’m really doing two things simultaneously with my camera: making a record of my trip, and trying to create art.

The former is just for me, is not intended for publication, and it doesn’t need to meet any particular artistic standards or be original. The latter, destined for wider consumption, must be in some way a unique view.

So, if I’m strolling along in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, I’m going to be taking the standard shots of the Eiffel Tower like everyone else, but I’m also going to be looking for some unique aspect to home in on, to satisfy my artistic impulses.

However, sometimes the lines get blurred.

Last spring I visited the Lombardian town of Mantua in northern Italy, and unfortunately I chose the day on which all the town’s attractions were shut. Luckily, though, a helpful lady at the tourist office (thankfully open), suggested I take a long walk along the extensive lakeside promenades that surround a large portion of the town.

This was an excellent idea, as it was exceptionally peaceful, relaxing and beautiful, and I was particularly overwhelmed by the sight of these white blossoms against the delicate blue of the spring afternoon. Of course I wanted to photograph them, and of course, it’s difficult to do so in a unique way.

So, what am I trying to say? There’s nothing original about these shots, but there’s no denying the stunning beauty of the nature they portray, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Right?

“Italian Spring” : Mantua, 11th March