Have you ever been frustrated in an attempt to create something, only to later discover a setback was actually serendipity?
I set out to photograph a very alluring section of road surrounded by a carnival of fall colors. The moment I arrived, my senses were engulfed. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow leaves painted a breathtaking canvas against the crisp, autumn sky. However, capturing this explosion of colors was no small feat. Crowds swarmed, and cars cluttered my view, each visitor as eager as I to capture the scene. The road was a carousel of vehicles; as some left, new ones arrived, and they no sooner passed into the distance than they were back again, propelled back by the end of the road just ahead.
Every time I thought I might have just a moment to take a shot, another soul, equally captivated by the beauty, stepped into view. With rain forecasted the next day, I assumed a smaller crowd and decided to try again then.
The ensuing day, raindrops played their rhythmic ballet on leaves and pavement alike, intensifying the colors and casting a reflective sheen on the road that I knew would add a magical touch to my photo. Yet, the crowds had increased and after almost an hour of waiting I realized I had to try something different. I found another spot where I could set my tripod up on the side of the road in order to gain a few precious seconds. Finally, as if the universe conspired in my favor, the road emptied. I was alone! I captured the scene—a fleeting snapshot of tranquility.
Sometimes, the pursuit of a shot doesn’t lead you to what you were looking for; sometimes serendipity gives you something more.
