Meditation, the art of sitting still, relaxed yet alert, has taught me to see in new ways. I notice more – colors, shapes, the geometry of nature, the constant birthing and dying in front of me – and slowly but unsurely I'm learning to capture these in my photography. For me, picking up my camera opens my eyes – what a joy of discovery!

Many of my photographs are taken in my friend and neighbor Anne's lovely wildlife friendly gardens, and on solo retreats (where I spend about a month a year) at Dorje Khyung Dzong in southern Colorado and also at Lebh Shomea in south Texas. I also love the roads and backroads from central Texas out to the Big Bend in springtime, when everything is popping.

So what is contemplative photography? For me, it's slowing down enough to notice, to really see what is in front of me. Later, viewing the image, I often notice that it triggers emotions – sadness, appreciation, quiet excitement, joy. A good photo is an adventure in softening, in opening, in letting the world touch me.

Your comments are appreciated – I have a lot to learn! Most of the images seen here are for purchase.

Jake Lorfing

goslow@sbcglobal.net

Said the night wind to

the little lamb
Do you see what I see?
'Way up in the sky, little lamb
Do you see what I see?

    – traditional Christmas carol

Blue Horse, Blue Horse,

What do you see?

I see a green frog looking at me.

         – Bill Martin Jr.

Whatever arises is fresh,

the essence of realization.

–Pengar Jampal Zangpo