My November Photo of the Month is SDRP472, photographed at San Diego’s San Dieguito River Park.
SDRP472 Background
Living in coastal Southern California, the prevailing marine layer makes a common subject. This climate that is present Spring and Autumn moderates our weather, keeping the days cool and mild.
Early in the mornings, or late in the afternoons, moody images can easily be created. I’ve made more than enough of those over the years. Over time, I have come to love the brief period when the clouds are evaporating, a transition from cloudy to sunny. Time it right, and you have many options.
This particular image was created during that period, near the end of our loop hike in San Dieguito River Park. With some checking with colleague Alex, I believe this is chaparral broom (Baccharis pilularis). The identity of the plant, however, wasn’t the most important part. I simply loved its contrast with the rest of the chaparral as the clouds were burning off.
It was an unexpected find. When I visit a place I have been to many times, I often have some idea of the images I wish to make. It is delightful when you come across a scene you didn’t have in mind, and sometimes I think I make better images in those situations than the ones I already had in mind.
With November ending, a lot of the prevailing marine layer will be taking a break. December beings our “rainy” season, although whether there is much rain varies year to year. The onshore flow should begin again around March, and I am already looking forward to Spring.
As always, thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the image.
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Photos of the Month Portfolio Archive
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T.M. Schultze is a San Diego-based photographer, traveller, and writer. He writes, photographs, and draws things of the outdoors that have inspired humans for thousands of years. He co-authored the Photographer’s Guide to Joshua Tree Park which can be purchased here.