Azalea Bowl
Callaway Resort & Gardens

I don’t know about you but I need to go for a walk after yesterday. Why are my eyes always bigger than my stomach? Anyway, come for a walk with me around the Azalea Bowl of Callaway Gardens. Don’t worry, although it is late autumn, there is always something to capture the attention of my camera.

After parking the car we walk through the small garden at the start of one of the trails. The sun is penetrating through the trees highlighting the late autumn plantings. If you want to soak it all in, have a seat next to me before we set off on our adventure.

Ok, ready now? Good. Let’s go…

Although winter is fast approaching, the autumn colors are still holding on and giving us plenty to see. Don’t forget to look up. There are opportunities all around us.

Sometimes, in my rush to get a sunrise, I forget I need to wait for the sun to climb higher in the sky and allow it to illuminate a scene. Earlier in the day these leaves would not stand out against the sky as well as they do. Direct light is better than the side light of the morning for these leaves.

Let’s keep walking down the trail toward the water. I’m thinking I’ll be able to find a reflection or two. Wait! What is that bright pink flashing at me. Wow, still a few azaleas fighting off the impending cold. I can’t pass up this opportunity. I don’t think anyone will be upset if we venture off the trail just a little.

Totally worth it!

Oh, wow! Most of the leaves have fallen but it looks like the yellows are being stubborn. I knew there would be a reflection for me. Good light, good color. OK, take my time. Work all the angles. We are not in a hurry. First a little back light, then some side light and then full on spotlight. That works…

I see a little more color along the trail up ahead. Shall we continue? Great! Oh cool, more azaleas and one very sedate bug. I think he wins the don’t blink contest.

It isn’t much further. I see a few more images ahead of us. Come on, watch your step as we look up again…

Maybe because I’m of Swedish descent or maybe the complementary colors call to me, but I really like the yellow on blue. Don’t quit on me now, I see one last image I want to capture. Morning dew, back light and a soft focus. Yep, that is a good one.

Take my hand, I’ll put the camera in the bag and we’ll walk along the trail enjoying the sights…