I’d like to reflect for a moment on the word reflect. As a photographer, I often think of reflections in terms of the duplication of a scene, such as the reflection of trees on still water. I love reflection photos and am captured and mesmerized by scenes that have reflections so you will often see them in my photography. Below are some of the reflection scenes I captured in the Yukon recently.
But here, in this blog, I am examining my experiences of life and writing about them. That, in itself, is considered a reflective essay. I will always look back on this trip to the Yukon with the realization that traveling with like-minded people around you is so gratifying and provides a comfort level that goes beyond all other travel experiences.
Taking time to stop to photograph simple ponds, a goat or bear on the side of the road, or a whiskey jack begging for food is not always possible when traveling with others that don’t see the same ‘picture’ as you. It’s not that I would ever prefer my Yukon group to my husband but I have to say that the bus we were on stopped for pics every few kilometers it seemed. Husband would not have tolerated that and eventually, I would just get, “Roll down your window”. I can’t blame him though, especially since there is always a destination with a timeline involved. On the Yukon trip it was fluid and very flexible.
To reflect can also refer to the throwing back by a body or surface of light or heat, without absorbing it. I thought this photograph represented that very concept. I do realize there that this surface really only represents heat, but the highway certainly is throwing off the light of the setting sun.
Klondike Highway at sunset
By definition, reflection can also encompass the image you see in a mirror or off of a shiny surface. Or it can be something of consequence that arises from something else. Look at this image of my roommate on the Yukon trip. Her lovely smile and healthy glow is a consequence of being on an adventure for which she has longed for and is a reflection of her good health and happiness.
I could go on but I’m not prepared in any way to match photos with definitions beyond what I have been able to do above. Reflections can also be something bringing discredit to someone or something (the death of sea creatures due to the ingestion of plastics reflects badly on the human race to see and act on the devastation that their consumption habits have on other specise). There is also a mathematical reflection. And, by further definition, serious thought or consideration; an idea, especially one that is written down or expressed…
Which brings me back to the second definition I reflected on above, the reflection essay. It is short and (hopefully) sweet.