I like to think it’s because my star sign is Libra …
Side Note: I *believe* in horoscopes only when they promise the really good stuff
Where was I? Right: I’m a Libra and apparently that makes me indecisive — and diplomatic. Which means the task of choosing favourites, even from my own work, is daunting. But that is Patti’s challenge for this week’s Lens Artists Photo Challenge | favourite photos of 2019, and I like the idea of looking back over a year’s work.
So here goes (with the caveat that today’s hot favourites could be tomorrow’s ‘also-rans’); images from 2019 that still speak to me.
January
Redwoods Tree Walk, Rotorua. Image; Su Leslie 2019
Taken in early January when the Big T and I visited Rotorua, this shot reminds me of a peaceful afternoon on elevated walkways high in a redwood forest. I could use some of the cool, fragrant air right now.
February
Summer fun. Road-trip with the Big T. Image: Su Leslie 2019
It’s become a bit of a “thing” to photograph T’s car in scenic locations. Maybe I should ask Audi for a job?
March
Kereru (native wood pigeon) in Ti Kouka (cabbage tree). Image: Su Leslie 2019
One of the things that has brought me great joy in the past year is seeing native birds feasting on the bounty of our trees. With so much loss of habitat in the neighbourhood, the importance of maintaining a food source for our beautiful wildlife has never been greater.
April
Portrait of the artist as teacher. Image: Su Leslie 2019
In April, my friend Claire sold her house and moved out of Auckland. We’ve been friends since our kids were at primary school and I miss her company, especially as I’d spent much of the previous year documenting her work as an artist and teacher.
May
Sunset, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland, NZ. Image: Su Leslie 2019
I chose this shot of oil storage tanks at sunset simply because I think it’s beautiful.
June
Image: Su Leslie 2019
On a winter’s day walk in the Auckland Domain, I found this shot already staged for me, either by nature or another’s hand. Serendipity.
July
Welcoming party, morning walk in Turangi, NZ. Image: Su Leslie 2019
Definitely not the best shot I took in July, but a lovely reminder of a frosty morning in the central North Island town of Turangi.
August
Pohutukawa leaves; double exposure. Image: Su Leslie 2019
I finally found the multiple-exposure setting on my camera and had fun with pohutukawa leaves and some other things. I love the colour palette in this shot.
September
Solace in the Wind, by Max Patte, Wellington waterfront. Image: Su Leslie 2019
One of the most photographed sculptures in New Zealand apparently. Certainly I can never resist trying to capture the changing moods of this powerful and beautiful work.
October
Wisteria. Image: Su Leslie 2019
October was a month of flowers and new growth. I chose this particular image because I love the colours.
November
Teahouse, Pukekura Park, New Plymouth. Image: Su Leslie 2019
With all that seems wrong in the world, I need to hold on to what is good, like a week in New Plymouth visiting gardens — beautiful and productive — and meeting people committed to living simpler, better lives. Each evening while I was there, I walked through the city’s stunning Pukekura Park.
December 2019
Image: Su Leslie 2019
A no-brainer really. My funny, kind and darling son.
And now a thank you …
to everyone who visits this blog, and especially those who take the time to share their thoughts and ideas and so often, kindness. I want you to know how much I appreciate your support and the community we have created here.
Wishing you all a happy new year.
Zimmerbitch 