Introduction
Two different species of maples trees live next to me in adjoining yards. Both have a quiet beauty which only bit by bit captured my full attention. One of them dominates the view from my study window and the other from my kitchen window. I want to introduce them to you.
Rocky Mountain Maple (Acer glabrum)-19 Oct 2021
My next-door neighbor received this tree as a gift about a dozen years ago. Although it was then a sapling, I had misgivings because it was to destined block out a portion of prime astronomy sky. Yes, the tree’s beauty has conquered my limited vision (pun intended), and my telescope still has access to other parts of the night sky.
Rocky Mountain Maple Closeup
I had no idea the closeup would turn out this delightful. My procedure on a shoot is to find a place with promise and then take a series of photos while concentrating on technical aspects such as composition, aperture, shutter speed, and white balance. Later at home I view the photos on the computer and ask myself, “Is this anything?” Sometimes it is, and more often it isn’t. This time it was. I have known of my methodology for a while, but I did not put words to it until I read Jerry Seinfeld’s book, Is This Anything? ((I loved this book. It often made me laugh out loud. The bits on Superman and Batman are especially hilarious.))
Canyon Maple (Acer grandidentatum)-28 Oct 2021
I suspect that this tree was planted about thirty years ago by a neighbor long since moved. It seems sad that I only become aware of this tree three years ago. It is beautiful all year, but the spectacular fall foliage is, of course, a highlight. The range of the canyon maple is centered in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. A little crest of the Wasatch is visible at the far left of the frame.
Canyon Maple Close-up
The close-up emphasizes color: The deep blue sky and the golden yellow foliage contrast with the brownish red.
Endnotes
- I purposely don’t have trees in my yard so at least some of the night sky is available for astronomy. But I love trees and am fortunate to have these two maples practically in my yard. I enjoy them every day of the year including during the winter.
- Both trees are native to the western United States with the canyon maple native to Utah.
- Some authors of tree field guides speculate that the Rocky Mountain maples are especially closely related to the sugar maples of Canada and the eastern United States.
- I am gratified that I have found such beauty right next door – twice.
Thank you,
Michael
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