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“Collection of Petals” - 2/18/2024

📍McGovern Centennial Gardens/ Woodland Garden, Houston, TX

Located near Hermann Park in Houston is the McGovern Centennial Gardens and the Woodland Garden, peaceful botanical gardens full of beautiful flowers. These gardens provide an escape from the urban living of the city. Among the pathways of towering trees, I found an array of flower species, including azaleas, bluebells, and camellias.

Each photo I captured showed not only the beauty of flowers, but also my bond with the natural world. In the moments I spent observing and admiring the intricate details of flowers, I felt present. Each delicate petal, every hue of the flowers, invited me into a space of peace and quiet. Through photography, I found a deeper appreciation for the world around me, reminding me to breathe and embrace the beauty of every moment. Each click of my camera is a reminder to enjoy the simply joys of life and find beauty in the details.

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“Treasures of Cambodia” - 1/2/2024 + 1/3/2024

📍Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Angkor Wat, built in the 12th century, showcases the culture and history of Cambodia. It is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally a Hindu temple, it later became a Buddhist site. As I explored the complex and climbed to the top of temples, I found breathtaking views. There are intricate carvings, each telling a story of Hindu gods and heroes, showing the religious beliefs of this era. This complex of temples is very remarkable, each corner holds a sense of history and religion

Photographing nature near Angkor Wat was an enriching experience, connecting me with the natural world and surrounded by this ancient wonder. The reflective waters in front of the central temple were a mirror to nature’s beauty. As I stood captivated by the serene surface, I felt a connection to the surrounding landscape. The mirrored image of the temple and trees surrounding it seemed to blur the lines between reality and reflection. The stillness mirrored the quiet of my own mind. In moments of quiet observation, I felt a deep connection to the natural world. The sight of the turtles hidden in the forest and the large trees served as a reminder of the simple joys that surround me. This made me appreciate the pleasures of the world around me.

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“Serene Reflections” - 12/26/2023

📍Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the center of Hanoi, Vietnam. This lake is rich in culture and history. The legend of the lake is that Emperor Le Loi returned the magical sword to the Golden Turtle God, a giant turtle. Hoan Kiem Lake is surrounded by scenic temples, gardens, and pagodas. Throughout history, Hoan Kiem Lake has been a symbol of Vietnamese independence and residence.

During my visit to the Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam, I was drawn to the serene beauty of the reflective lake. I was captivated by the still water, reflecting the greenery like a mirror. I felt a deep sense of connection to the nature and cultural significance of the lake. Nearby the lake, I visited the Temple of Jade Mountain, where I gazed at the koi fish pond. The appearance and movements of the gold and black koi fish caught my attention. Their graceful presence reminded me of the beauty of the natural world.

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“Nature’s Vibrant Palette” - 11/19/2023 + 11/21/2023 + 11/23/2023

📍Somewhere in Oklahoma

Here are more photos I took while in Oklahoma in various locations. As I wandered around the surrounding forest of the cabin I stayed in, I discovered a little mushroom, unique flowers, and a butterfly. The flowers caught my eye since I’ve never seen any that resemble them. I saw a bunch of butterflies, but this was the first to stay long enough for me to capture it on camera. I walked further to find the first little mushroom I’d seen while on the trip. This walk showed me that taking the time to look around in nature can be rewarding.

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“Whispers of Nature” - 11/19/2023 + 11/23/2023

📍Friends Trail, Oklahoma and Beavers Bend, Oklahoma

The Friends Trail in Oklahoma is a scenic trail for a outdoor experience. The trail winds through forests and serene landscapes. As you continue hiking along the trail, there are picturesque views of the river. The riverbanks are covered in vegetation and rocks. As I ventured above the river, I noticed wildlife, such as fish. Beaver’s Bend Lake in Oklahoma is surrounded by dense forests, with breathtaking views of the reflective lake. With its clear water reflecting the surrounded forested hillsides, the lake provides a stunning backdrop. There are many activities to do on the water, including kayaking and fishing.

As I sat above the rushing water on the Friends Trail, memories of kayaking in North Carolina flooded back to me. The familiar sound of the water crashing against rocks gave me a sense of nostalgia and comfort, grounding me in the moment. I found a quiet spot off the trail to reflect and think about my life. At Beaver’s Bend, the symphony of chirping insects filled the air made me feel connected to the natural world. The reflective water mirrored the greenery of the forest, captivating my senses. As I watched the gentle ripples of the waters surface, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. In these moments of stillness, I felt a deep connection to nature and a reminder of the interconnectedness of living things.

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“A Lens into Vietnam’s Serenity” - 12/27/2023

📍Van Long Lagoon, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

Van Long Lagoon, located in the Ninh Binh Province of Vietnam, is known as the “bay without waves” and “inland Ha Long Bay.” It is the largest wetland reserve in the northern delta region. The lagoon is calming with its serene waters, surrounded by limestone mountains covered in vegetation. It’s home to a diversity of flora and fauna.

As I visited this serene lagoon, I felt a connection with the rhythms of nature. From the gentle ripples of the water’s surface and gentle breeze, my senses seemed heightened to the subtle beauty around me. As we travelled through the winding waterways, my body felt lifted seeing the beauty of nature. I felt a sense of peace and belonging. While we didn’t encounter much wildlife, there is an abundance of animals and plants that live around the water. As we glided on the waters surface, my mind quieted. I felt present in the moment, allowing me to appreciate the serenity of nature.

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“Bliss in the Backyard” - 11/16/2023 + 11/18/2023

📍My Grandparent’s House

In the back of my grandparent’s house is their backyard with a forestry area where I took these photos. I found solace and connection with nature’s simple wonders as I discovered two little mushrooms and a turtle. The mushrooms, one with a vibrant red color with dots, and the other with distinct veins, seemed to show that beauty emerges from unexpected places. Along with that, I saw a gentle turtle slowly strolling along the green grass near their lake, its slow and deliberate movements taking my attention. It symbolized the use of patience in a fast-paced world. Finding these interesting things in nature was a reminder that even in small experiences, like exploring my grandparent’s backyard, there is always pleasures in nature to be discovered.

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This Canon Powershot S100 is the digital camera I use to take all my photos. My grandpa used it throughout the 2000s and gifted it to me.

After receiving this camera, I throughly researched the camera’s technicalities to familiarize myself with this new tool. I began by familiarizing myself with its basic functions, specifically the shutter speed, ISO settings, and the menu settings. I experimented with the image stabilization to ensure well-focused and clear photos. I took advantage of the macro mode for close-up, detailed photography. Once I captured my photos, I reviewed them on the LCD screen to utilize the editing features, including the exposure, contrast, and color balance. Not only did I use the basic editing features, but I also transferred them to my phone for additional post- processing editing using Adobe Lightroom, an editing software.