Pathways and Perspectives
“You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great. You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip.”(Psalm 18:35-36)
Pathways
There is just something intriguing and compelling about images of pathways in landscape photography. Composed correctly the image evokes imagination and wonder for the viewer. Where did the path come from and where does it end? Does the path appear to be a difficult path or an easy stroll? Is the path a lonely empty one or is it normally busy and well traveled? Just as in much of photography the image seems to be the most compelling when answers are left out. For the image that I captured above it is purposeful that I composed it to come in from the side and then face into the misty distance. This allows the mind to wander and imagine rather than having the entire story.
Notice also that in this image another answer was left out and this also creates questions rather than answers. By draining the color from the image and making it monotone it helps to create a deeper emotion and connection by further reducing the potential distraction of color. The combined elements of a purposeful perspective and choice of a monotone image combine to make the image powerful.
Perspectives
Read the Psalm above out loud to yourself. I want you to notice some key words in the verses that really stand out to give it power. The “shield of salvation” provides protection. The “right hand” provides support. The “gentleness” uplifts. A “wide place” and “feet did not slip” has the feeling of security.
Ponder the photo again and notice what it is a pathway over. This tidal estuary will always be either covered in water or dangerous mud flats when the tide is out. When a pathway is provided we sometimes have a tendency to notice only the confinement that it is giving us rather than the protection. It may seem that the path is confining on my personal freedom to walk out on the estuary on whatever path I may choose but what it is really providing is safety, security, and the ability to get to the destination without losing my life.
The Psalmist wants to teach us that we have a good and loving God who has provided a pathway of protection for our lives and not confinement. God has given guidelines in our lives just as a loving parent provides guidelines to a child. He knows that dangers that exist outside of that pathway. Also, just as on this path over the estuary there are written reminders about the dangers of straying and if we choose to go over that railing the consequences can be deadly.
I hope that this has been helpful today as you walk your own path of life. Will you choose to stay on the boardwalk where it is safe and secure or will you head over the railing and try your own way? For me, I choose the path that has been provided by my loving Heavenly Father.
I hope these thoughts today have been an encouragement to you in your own walk and that you do enjoy taking these little photo journeys with me along the way! Praying for you wherever you are whether you are someone I know or may someday be able to meet. God Bless and don’t forget to take some photos along the way in your own journey.
Ken
Psalm 8:3-9
