Build It and They Will Come
On a foggy April morning, the new camera gets its first look at a spider web. Would you care to wager it will not be the last?
"I've been asked more than once what we plan to do with 'all this land'. Knowing the answer expected of the owner of these five fallow acres along a creek I tell them someday we will fence it off to pasture a few head of cattle; or we might plant Christmas trees like so many other landowners in the county who can't make their land pay for itself by farming. The truth of the matter is something I believe I will from hereon confess: I plan to use this bottomland for taking spiderweb pictures.
That should make for some raised eyebrows, don't you think?" --Fragments, October 11, 2003
Comments
Now, wasn't that a small price to pay just to get this one pic? It's already paid for itself in my opinion. I'm sure the spiders will appreciate the detailed attention to their architectural skills also.
As far as land use, I've discovered that in almost every case, when folks discover that you're behavior is not motivated by monetary gain, you're considered some kind of oddball and avoided. How sad. I recommend building a good fence around the land. Some day they will pay just to see a spider.
Posted by: fletch | April 22, 2004 7:48 AM
As a spinner myself, I can't help but admire the construction of this beauty. My first thought was "safety net" but that's not the point of it, is it?
Your composition photographically is awesome and does justice both to the little spider's efforts and your intention to hold onto your land. Go ahead, weave your own web around it to hold it secure.
Posted by: susan | April 22, 2004 8:46 AM
I think that's a brilliant and most excellent use for your land! It's a stunning picture, Fred!
Posted by: Artichoke Heart | April 22, 2004 11:26 AM
You love the new camera, don't you? :)
Posted by: Pascale Soleil | April 22, 2004 2:54 PM
This might be one of your best photos, Fred. Stunning!
Posted by: trish | April 22, 2004 10:45 PM
Can't wait to come home and break your new camera, Dad. Keep that old tradition alive. Meanwhile, better take as many of those pictures as you can...
Posted by: nate | April 23, 2004 3:14 PM
I know just what you mean, Fred. My dream is to own a few acres of peaceful country somewhere, and yes, people have asked what I would do with it. To me, answering: "Just sit in the middle of it and enjoy it" seems perfectly sane :-)
And congrats on the new camera - keep up the good work! (Good? Great, rather)
Posted by: Woody | April 23, 2004 4:45 PM
fletch--"...when folks discover that you're behavior is not motivated by monetary gain, you're considered some kind of oddball and avoided." Isn't it a blessing being avoided by such people?
Posted by: Cop Car | April 23, 2004 7:33 PM