Those that know me as a photographer are well aware that I struggle with trees. The challenge of capturing the essence of such wonderful living things, has vexed me in the past. In my job job as a landscape photographer i spend lots of time exploring the Central Oregon area. Last summer, while I was looking for Mariposa Lilies in bloom, I stumble across this absolute giant of a Juniper Tree. It is approximately seven feet in diameter at its base and it is very healthy. By far the biggest and most character laden juniper tree I’ve ever found. One of the things that defines Juniper trees is there ability to survive in hostile climates. This huge, weathered(yet healthy) Juniper most embodies what I think a Juniper Tree should look like. I made several separate visits to this old growth Juniper tree in an attempt to capture the best composition possible.
Patriarch Juniper Tree
My initial efforts were less than stellar, yet I kept returning. this big Juniper had a certain personality that repeatedly drew me back. After some introspection, I realized that this Juniper reminded me of my father. I’m sure that there are some awful Freudian connotations there, but it’s true! It is big, embracing, and has a certain warmth about it. All traits which distinctly remind me of my Father. Thus the title, Patriarch Juniper Tree. You can see this image and three other new images during the First Friday art walk at the Bend Brewing Company, Friday May 6th, 2011. I hope to see you there!
Best,
Mike Putnam
