As the title ‘Rose Particle’ suggests, this image centers on the streams of energy emanating from the singularity presented by the dark pink rose. The rose becomes at once the object of beauty, to which our eyes are drawn, and the center of energetic particles radiating outward from the forces contained within it. As each object within the universe holds latent energy, so does the rose, as it demonstrates here. The counter play between beauty and strength is as the yin and yang, the duality that resides within each of us. This duality is held together through the cosmic vibrations, which can be ascertained in moments of great quietude of mind and body, such as achieved during meditation.
Whereas the rose has revealed its cryptic energies through this image, one may find that the image enables the centering of similar energies. If the image is studied while directing focus on the process of breathing, as one does in meditation, the rose may become a guide.
Technical Details
This image was captured at 100 ISO, F/22 at 0.3 second shutter speed. The bright white streams originate from the sun’s reflection on the shiny leaves that surround the rose.
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
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One thought on “Kryptomorphaics #1 – Rose Particle”
A well developed narrative….that speaks from the heart. This is a good example illustrating how photography can be much more than merely capturing a fine moment. There is potential for multiple levels of meaning…going well beyond the image….!
Dutch goes the Photo! 
A well developed narrative….that speaks from the heart. This is a good example illustrating how photography can be much more than merely capturing a fine moment. There is potential for multiple levels of meaning…going well beyond the image….!