In "Fjord Mystique: A Journey Through Nordic Majesty," we invite you to embark on a visual odyssey like no other. This extraordinary series of photographs transports you to the heart of a Scandinavian fjord, where the grandeur of nature takes center stage.

With each image, you will find yourself sailing through these deep, dark waters, surrounded by towering, barren mountains that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. The unique perspective of each photograph immerses you in the rugged beauty of the landscape, and as you explore the series, you'll notice the absence of any man-made elements, offering an unspoiled view of the untamed wilderness.

The photographs capture the drama of the moment, with heavy clouds in the sky casting a sense of foreboding. Yet, the sun's rays pierce through the clouds, bathing the fjord and mountains in an otherworldly light. Each image is a testament to the majesty and isolation of this pristine environment.

Join us on this journey through Nordic mystique, where the pure essence of nature is laid bare, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a visual masterpiece worthy of the most prestigious publications.

Crystal River is an interesting placed. Its economy is practically based around the manatees in springs and numerous protected lands and waters surround the town itself, but these are fragmented as part of numerous different parks and preserves which often aren't contiguous. The waters, part of the river itself or part of many other named creeks stretched throughout the tidal delta region, feature tremendous views of some of the most striking palm hammocks anywhere. Without being on the water, gaining an unobstructed, close up view of these hammocks is more difficult than it might seem, but I have certainly enjoyed several days seeking out different views I can obtain and capture.

a small, elegant sawbill duck that breeds in the boreal forests of northern Europe and Russia, nesting in tree cavities close to freshwater lakes and slow-moving rivers. During the breeding season it favours quiet, fish-rich waters surrounded by coniferous woodland. In winter, Smew migrate south and west, occupying large lakes, reservoirs, gravel pits, and sheltered estuaries, where they feed mainly on small fish and aquatic invertebrates by diving.

In Britain, Smew is a scarce but regular winter visitor, arriving mainly from Scandinavia and western Russia between November and March. Most individuals are seen in southern and eastern England, particularly in the Midlands, East Anglia, and the Thames basin, with favoured sites including large reservoirs and flooded gravel workings. Occurrence in Scotland and Wales is much rarer. Birds in Britain are usually females and first-winter males (often called “redheads”), while the striking white and black adult males are less frequently recorded. Smew is strictly protected in the UK and is considered an important indicator species for the quality of wintering freshwater habitats.

Panoramic view of Lake Como near Domaso, Lombardy, Italy. The image showcases serene waters surrounded by lush, green hills and mountains under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. The rolling landscape is partially covered in dense foliage, highlighting the region's natural beauty.

The Hinatuan Enchanted River is a deep spring river with its tranquil blue waters, surrounded by a canopy of trees and vegetation. This idyllic river in the Philippines is nothing short of paradise.

Dinner waiting (from my awesome brother) while I waded in lower Grant Lakes photographing dusk on Saturday night.

USA: California: Sierra Nevada: Mariposa County: Yosemite National Park: Lower Grant Lake (9250 feet): Dusk over a group of pines as the southwestern edge of the alpine lake reflects in its frigid waters, surrounded by granite boulders, fallen trees, and a subalpine forest © Sean Arbabi | seanarbabi.com (all rights reserved worldwide) #yosemite #hdr #dusk #grantlakes

Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, is a prominent feature of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. With a length of approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) and a width of about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), Lake Windermere has a fascinating history that spans thousands of years. In the following 2000 words, we will delve into the history of Lake Windermere, exploring its geological origins, early human settlements, notable events, and its significance as a popular tourist destination.

The formation of Lake Windermere can be traced back to the last Ice Age, approximately 13,000 years ago. As the massive glaciers that covered the region gradually receded, they carved deep basins in the landscape, creating the lakes that are now a defining characteristic of the Lake District. The melting ice filled these basins, giving birth to Lake Windermere and its neighboring lakes.

The earliest evidence of human habitation around Lake Windermere dates back to the Neolithic period, around 4000 BCE. Archaeological finds, including stone tools and pottery fragments, suggest that small communities of hunter-gatherers inhabited the area. These early settlers relied on the lake and its surroundings for sustenance, utilizing its fish and waterfowl as food sources.

Over time, the Bronze Age saw the emergence of more settled communities around Lake Windermere. Bronze Age burial mounds and standing stones, such as the Langdale Axe Factory, highlight the presence of organized societies in the region. The lake provided a crucial transportation route, allowing for trade and cultural exchange with neighboring communities.

The arrival of the Romans in Britain during the 1st century CE brought significant changes to the Lake District, including the area around Lake Windermere. The Romans established a fort at Ambleside, near the northern end of the lake, which served as a strategic base for their military campaigns. They also constructed a road, now known as High Street, which connected their fort to other Roman settlements in the region. This road passed near the eastern shore of Lake Windermere, enabling easier access to the area.

Following the withdrawal of the Romans from Britain in the 5th century CE, the Lake District fell under the control of various Anglo-Saxon and Viking kingdoms. The area was predominantly rural, with scattered farming communities and small settlements. Lake Windermere continued to play a role in the local economy, serving as a source of fish and facilitating trade and transportation.

During the medieval period, the ownership of Lake Windermere and its surrounding lands became concentrated in the hands of local lords and monastic orders. The region was part of the Barony of Kendal, with the land being primarily utilized for agriculture and fishing. The monastic communities, such as Furness Abbey and St. Mary's Abbey, held significant influence and were involved in the management of the lake and its resources.

It was not until the 19th century that Lake Windermere and the Lake District as a whole gained recognition as a tourist destination. The Romantic movement, characterized by its celebration of nature and the sublime, played a crucial role in attracting visitors to the region. The picturesque landscapes, immortalized in the writings of poets such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and John Ruskin, captivated the imagination of the public.

The advent of the railway in the mid-19th century further facilitated access to Lake Windermere. The Kendal and Windermere Railway, later known as the Windermere Branch Line, opened in 1847, connecting the lake to the national rail network. This development led to a surge in tourism, as visitors from urban centers could now easily reach the scenic beauty of Lake Windermere.

With the growing popularity of Lake Windermere as a tourist destination, the surrounding towns and villages underwent significant development. Bowness-on-Windermere, situated on the eastern shore of the lake, emerged as a bustling center of tourism. Hotels, guesthouses, and boating facilities were established to cater to the increasing number of visitors. Steamers were introduced on the lake, offering scenic cruises and further enhancing the allure of Lake Windermere.

The 20th century brought further changes to Lake Windermere and its surroundings. The advent of motor vehicles and improved road networks made the lake even more accessible. Boating and water sports gained popularity, with sailing clubs and marinas appearing along the shores of the lake. The establishment of the Lake District National Park in 1951 ensured the preservation of the natural beauty of the area, including Lake Windermere.

Today, Lake Windermere continues to attract millions of visitors each year. Its tranquil waters, surrounded by rolling hills and lush woodlands, offer a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and lakeside walks. The lake is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including birds, fish, and rare aquatic plants, adding to its ecological importance.

Lake Windermere also serves as a cultural and educational hub, with several museums and heritage centers dedicated to the region's history and natural heritage. The towns around the lake, such as Bowness-on-Windermere, Ambleside, and Windermere, offer a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, providing a vibrant base for exploring the Lake District.

In conclusion, the history of Lake Windermere is deeply intertwined with the wider historical developments of the Lake District. From its geological formation during the Ice Age to its significance as a popular tourist destination today, Lake Windermere has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, the influence of poets and artists, and the ever-changing patterns of human activity. As one of England's most iconic natural landmarks, Lake Windermere continues to captivate visitors with its scenic beauty and timeless allure.

This dramatic scene captures the narrow rocky gorge carved by the Krimmler Ache, forming part of the majestic Krimml Waterfalls in Salzburg, Austria. Taken in May 2024, the image showcases the fast-flowing river surging through steep rock walls, with mist rising from the turbulent waters. Surrounded by alpine greenery clinging to the cliffs, the gorge embodies the raw power and pristine beauty of Austria’s natural landscapes.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

I "Fjord Mystique: A Journey Through Nordic Majesty," we invite you to embark on a visual odyssey like no other. This extraordinary series of photographs transports you to the heart of a Scandinavian fjord, where the grandeur of nature takes center stage.

With each image, you will find yourself sailing through these deep, dark waters, surrounded by towering, barren mountains that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. The unique perspective of each photograph immerses you in the rugged beauty of the landscape, and as you explore the series, you'll notice the absence of any man-made elements, offering an unspoiled view of the untamed wilderness.

The photographs capture the drama of the moment, with heavy clouds in the sky casting a sense of foreboding. Yet, the sun's rays pierce through the clouds, bathing the fjord and mountains in an otherworldly light. Each image is a testament to the majesty and isolation of this pristine environment.

Join us on this journey through Nordic mystique, where the pure essence of nature is laid bare, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a visual masterpiece worthy of the most prestigious publications.

Fall Colors - Day 6

Silver City to Iron Mountain

Lake of the Clouds, located in Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in the Upper Peninsula, is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the state. Nestled between the ridges of the Porcupine Mountains, the lake offers stunning views from an overlook, where visitors can gaze across the deep blue waters surrounded by dense forests that dramatically change colors during autumn. The area is rich in hiking trails, wildlife, and serene landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The lake’s pristine beauty and tranquil setting make it a true gem within Michigan’s largest state park, drawing visitors year-round.

The colorful Hokitika Gorge on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, 33kms from Hokitika. The vivid turquoise waters surrounded by lush native are impressive.

A group of explorers from a distant world ventured into the uncharted waters of a mysterious ocean. Their boat, a vessel made of exotic materials unknown to Earth, glided silently through the misty waters surrounded by towering cliffs. They were in search of new life and new resources to take back to their home planet.

Suddenly, the tranquil atmosphere was shattered when an enormous creature with tentacles and a mouthful of dagger-like teeth emerged from the depths. Its eyes gleamed with an eerie glow as it stared at the intruders. Panic ensued among the explorers; they had never encountered such a being on their interstellar travels.

As they tried to retreat, their technology failed them – for this creature emitted an energy field that rendered their tools useless. They were at its mercy.

But then something miraculous happened – the creature communicated telepathically, expressing no harm but curiosity. It had been awakened by their presence after eons of slumber and was as intrigued by them as they were terrified of it.

A strange alliance formed between them; both alien to each other yet connected by the universal language of curiosity and exploration. The explorers learned that this creature was the last of its kind, a guardian of ancient secrets buried deep within the ocean’s abyss.

Their fear turned into fascination; they realized that this encounter wasn’t just frightening but also an opportunity for unprecedented scientific discovery.

And then I woke up!

The light was amazing last night- not sure if it was due to the fire near Yosemite Creek blocking the sun's rays, or the high elevation above 9000 feet. Regardless, here's the first of the results.

USA: California: Sierra Nevada: Mariposa County: Yosemite National Park: Lower Grant Lake (9250 feet): Sunset reflections of an unnamed peak glow in the frigid alpine lake waters, surrounded by granite boulders on the southern edge © Sean Arbabi | seanarbabi.com (all rights reserved worldwide) #yosemite #grantslake #sunset #reflections #usnationalparkphotography #yosemitenationalpark #nationalparkphotography

I didn't see the verse or "hell" written in red until I was home.

The waters surrounded me, even to my soul;

The deep closed around me;

Weeds were wrapped around my head.

I went down to the bottoms of the mountains.

I was imprisoned in the earth,

whose gates lock shut forever.

But you, O LORD my God,

snatched me from the jaws of death!

a small, elegant sawbill duck that breeds in the boreal forests of northern Europe and Russia, nesting in tree cavities close to freshwater lakes and slow-moving rivers. During the breeding season it favours quiet, fish-rich waters surrounded by coniferous woodland. In winter, Smew migrate south and west, occupying large lakes, reservoirs, gravel pits, and sheltered estuaries, where they feed mainly on small fish and aquatic invertebrates by diving.

In Britain, Smew is a scarce but regular winter visitor, arriving mainly from Scandinavia and western Russia between November and March. Most individuals are seen in southern and eastern England, particularly in the Midlands, East Anglia, and the Thames basin, with favoured sites including large reservoirs and flooded gravel workings. Occurrence in Scotland and Wales is much rarer. Birds in Britain are usually females and first-winter males (often called “redheads”), while the striking white and black adult males are less frequently recorded. Smew is strictly protected in the UK and is considered an important indicator species for the quality of wintering freshwater habitats.

Devikulam is a small hill station about 16 km from Munnar in the Idukki District of the southern state of Kerala in India. It is 1800 m above sea level.According to legend, the goddess Sita Devi of the Ramayana epic bathed in the beautiful Devikulam lake waters surrounded by lush, green hills, now named Sita Devi Lake. The lake draws tourists not only because of its sacredness but also for the curative powers of its mineral waters

Turbulent waters surround the sea stacks of Vik.

Another version of the wonderful reflections from last Saturday's campsite at lower Grant Lakes.

USA: California: Sierra Nevada: Mariposa County: Yosemite National Park: Lower Grant Lake (9250 feet): Sunset reflections of an unnamed peak glow in the frigid alpine lake waters, surrounded by granite boulders and subalpine water grass on the southern edge © Sean Arbabi | seanarbabi.com (all rights reserved worldwide) #yosemite #grantlakes #usnationalparkphotography #nationalpark #reflection #sierranevada

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

Combining black and white photography with HDR has been wonderful, showcasing this amazing technique to display a full tonal range during dramatic high contrast lighting situations, here merging seven images at sunset on Lower Grant Lake.

USA: California: Sierra Nevada: Mariposa County: Yosemite National Park: Lower Grant Lake (9250 feet): The sun sets between a group of pines as the southwestern edge of the alpine lake reflects in its frigid waters, surrounded by granite boulders, fallen trees, and a subalpine forest - © Sean Arbabi | seanarbabi.com (all rights reserved worldwide) #yosemite #sierranevada #california #blackandwhite #gitzo #nikond800e #lowergrantlake #mariposacounty #hdr #highdynamicrange

forgive the grainyness. it was night time. still getting the hang of underwater shooting AND posing haha it's not as easy as it seems.. masakit sa ilong, sobra!

****

I wish I could breath underwater. That way, I can truly feel its surreal experience. The sweet hum of the slow waters surround you as you effortlessly float, away from the confusing buzz of the urban world.

I "Fjord Mystique: A Journey Through Nordic Majesty," we invite you to embark on a visual odyssey like no other. This extraordinary series of photographs transports you to the heart of a Scandinavian fjord, where the grandeur of nature takes center stage.

With each image, you will find yourself sailing through these deep, dark waters, surrounded by towering, barren mountains that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. The unique perspective of each photograph immerses you in the rugged beauty of the landscape, and as you explore the series, you'll notice the absence of any man-made elements, offering an unspoiled view of the untamed wilderness.

The photographs capture the drama of the moment, with heavy clouds in the sky casting a sense of foreboding. Yet, the sun's rays pierce through the clouds, bathing the fjord and mountains in an otherworldly light. Each image is a testament to the majesty and isolation of this pristine environment.

Join us on this journey through Nordic mystique, where the pure essence of nature is laid bare, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a visual masterpiece worthy of the most prestigious publications.

This is a panoramic view of the place were the world famous cliff divers of La Quebrada in Acapulco amaze the crowd with their daredevil plunges into shallow waters surrounded by sharp boulders.

This panoramic view of Lake Thunersee in the Swiss Alps, taken from Faulensee near Spiez, showcases stunning turquoise waters surrounded by lush green mountains and snow-capped peaks. Small villages dot the shoreline, nestled between the lake and rugged cliffs. The calm water reflects the soft, cloudy sky, creating a serene atmosphere. In the foreground, Swiss houses and greenery frame the breathtaking landscape, capturing the region’s natural beauty.

This photo is so refreshing to me. After a 10 klms hike to Tongue Point in the Prom, wearing in my new hiking shoes, my feet were blistered up. The steep decline to this beach from the main track was hell on the toes, but then to take off the shoes, and step in this beautiful, cool, refreshing water, WOW Heaven!

I was then able to soak in where I was standing, probably one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. Crystal waters, surrounded by untouched National Park.

Fairy Cove, Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

The high contrast light was glowing, and I had to go for an HDR to show off the beauty.

USA: California: Sierra Nevada: Mariposa County: Yosemite National Park: Lower Grant Lake (9250 feet): The sun sets between a group of pines as the southwestern edge of the alpine lake reflects in its frigid waters, surrounded by granite boulders, fallen trees, and a subalpine forest © Sean Arbabi | seanarbabi.com (all rights reserved worldwide) #hdr #grantslake #yosemite #thenightsky

I "Fjord Mystique: A Journey Through Nordic Majesty," we invite you to embark on a visual odyssey like no other. This extraordinary series of photographs transports you to the heart of a Scandinavian fjord, where the grandeur of nature takes center stage.

With each image, you will find yourself sailing through these deep, dark waters, surrounded by towering, barren mountains that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. The unique perspective of each photograph immerses you in the rugged beauty of the landscape, and as you explore the series, you'll notice the absence of any man-made elements, offering an unspoiled view of the untamed wilderness.

The photographs capture the drama of the moment, with heavy clouds in the sky casting a sense of foreboding. Yet, the sun's rays pierce through the clouds, bathing the fjord and mountains in an otherworldly light. Each image is a testament to the majesty and isolation of this pristine environment.

Join us on this journey through Nordic mystique, where the pure essence of nature is laid bare, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a visual masterpiece worthy of the most prestigious publications.

In "Fjord Mystique: A Journey Through Nordic Majesty," we invite you to embark on a visual odyssey like no other. This extraordinary series of photographs transports you to the heart of a Scandinavian fjord, where the grandeur of nature takes center stage.

With each image, you will find yourself sailing through these deep, dark waters, surrounded by towering, barren mountains that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. The unique perspective of each photograph immerses you in the rugged beauty of the landscape, and as you explore the series, you'll notice the absence of any man-made elements, offering an unspoiled view of the untamed wilderness.

The photographs capture the drama of the moment, with heavy clouds in the sky casting a sense of foreboding. Yet, the sun's rays pierce through the clouds, bathing the fjord and mountains in an otherworldly light. Each image is a testament to the majesty and isolation of this pristine environment.

Join us on this journey through Nordic mystique, where the pure essence of nature is laid bare, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a visual masterpiece worthy of the most prestigious publications.

a small, elegant sawbill duck that breeds in the boreal forests of northern Europe and Russia, nesting in tree cavities close to freshwater lakes and slow-moving rivers. During the breeding season it favours quiet, fish-rich waters surrounded by coniferous woodland. In winter, Smew migrate south and west, occupying large lakes, reservoirs, gravel pits, and sheltered estuaries, where they feed mainly on small fish and aquatic invertebrates by diving.

In Britain, Smew is a scarce but regular winter visitor, arriving mainly from Scandinavia and western Russia between November and March. Most individuals are seen in southern and eastern England, particularly in the Midlands, East Anglia, and the Thames basin, with favoured sites including large reservoirs and flooded gravel workings. Occurrence in Scotland and Wales is much rarer. Birds in Britain are usually females and first-winter males (often called “redheads”), while the striking white and black adult males are less frequently recorded. Smew is strictly protected in the UK and is considered an important indicator species for the quality of wintering freshwater habitats.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A stunning view of the crystal clear waters surround an empty white sand beach in Miyako island (Miyako-jima) in Okinawa prefecture, Japan.

I'm a UK photographer currently based in Bangkok, Thailand. Many of my photos are available for sale on stock photography agencies and I'm also available for hire on the weekends for couples/maternity/newborn/corporate photoshoots in Bangkok. You can contact me at samspicerphotography@gmail.com or Line ID - samspicer

Please feel free to check out my stock photography galleries at -

Istock

Getty Images

Shutterstock - Sam Spicer

Fotolia - samspicerphoto

Stock photography by Samuel Spicer at Alamy

Please contact me if there is a photo you wish to purchase that is unavailable through the stock agencies and I'll be happy to help

High waters surround homes and businesses in the small town of Bucksport, S.C. as rivers continue to rise and flooded areas expand as a result of Hurricane Florence, Sept. 24, 2018. Local citizens are cautioned to “turn around, don’t drown” if they come across cones, barriers or flooded roads when traveling in affected areas of S.C. Assets from many agencies and military organizations are partnered and postured for Search and Rescue operations as flooding is projected to continue in the Pee Dee region of the state. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jorge Intriago)

"There is the mud, and there is the lotus that grows out of the mud. We need the mud in order to make the lotus." – Thich Nhat Hanh

The lotus flower symbolizes emerging from darkness into beauty and rebirth. It blooms directly from muddy, murky waters, emerging unscathed while producing exquisite blossoms.

In so many ways, this reflects exactly how the photo was made. Dear Chinara danced fearlessly in the murky waters, surrounded by lily pads. The white fabrics were soaked with dirt during the shoot. I stepped on some hidden logs in the dark water, almost dropping my camera in the process. A water crane flew by. There was a beautiful sunset in the distance.

The splendor that unfolds before us, both the mud and the lotus, both seen and unseen.

Model: @chinara07 (Thank you for braving through the muddy water!)

Headpiece: @zerrenety

Color toned with Apparition, Nightshade, Amethyst from @only.thecurious

#oniricglows with @compositenation

Photography @jajasgarden

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

Warm shallow waters surround the islands lying off the coast of Sfax, Tunisia, brought the islanders to develop characteristic fishing methods. Octopi fishing is made with clay amphoras dropped on the sandy soil tied with a rope to a floating buoy, octopi looking for refuge hide and remain inside even when the amphoras are pulled out of the water. On the other hand, fish are directed toward the traps by walls of nets or palm leaves that function like a big funnel.

Canon A1, Canon T90. Ektachrome 100. Locals didn’t like to be photographed at least until we made small talk over a soda or a delicious tea.

In the nineties I had the chance to work extensively for a few travel and life-style magazines while I was based first in Milan, Italy and later in New York, NY. When on assignment the schedule was usually tight and the time to photograph not always in sync with the best light or weather conditions, it happens. Nonetheless I always managed to bring home the result and keep my editors happy, which is paramount if you want to land more assignments that, by the way, brought me to several countries around the world.

Some assignments were more fun than others, or easier to accomplish but, nevertheless, each one of them was a good experience and left enriching memories.

A selection of the images shot then are now part of a photobook, a great collection of beautiful pictures and enriching anecdotes.

It comes in print and digital.

More info here: bit.ly/tpa_photobook.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A house surrounded by water in St. Augustine, Florida October 8, 2016 in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. The hurricane killed hundreds in the Caribbean and at least four people in Florida, and left swaths of damage and hundreds of thousands of power outages along parts of the US southeast from Florida to the Carolinas. Matthew left more than 1 million people without power in Florida alone. Water from the storm rushed through streets, making roadways look more like rivers. Photo by Marc Serota/Greenpeace

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

------------------------

The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

An ideal destination to enjoy nature and hiking. Its dark waters, surrounded by mountains, create a unique landscape to explore and photograph.

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

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The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

A hot fissure expands in Grindavik

And pressure builds across the peninsula.

Pele’s dance rumbles across the country,

Yet people swim in the warm blue waters

Surrounded by icy shores.

- a fragment

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Kayangan Lake is considered the cleanest lake in the Philippines. This pristine hidden beauty can be accessed after a steep 10-minute trek from the entrance. Swim and snorkel in its cyrstal-clear torquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery and limestone cliffs and underwater formations! www.coronphilippines.com/

A praia dos Coqueiros situa-se ao sul da barra do rio Trancoso.

Chega-se a ela descendo pelo caminho que está ao lado direito da igreja de Trancoso. Praia de águas calmas cercada de recifes.

Nela encontram-se diversas cabanas que servem ótimos quitutes da cozinha baiana.

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The Beach is located south of the river bar Trancoso.

Enough to it down the path that is right beside the church of Trancoso. Beach calm waters surrounded by reefs.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.

In it are several huts que serves great Bahian cuisine delicacies.