“The peacocks were calling. I had to go!”
-Me
It is so difficult to describe the pull that Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has on me in springtime. Charleston, SC, has always held such a special place in my heart since living there for five years right after graduating from college.
Oddly enough, it was after moving away from Charleston that I visited Magnolia for the first time.
The gardens are a visual delight at every turn for all visitors and a photographic paradise for those hoping to capture just a tiny bit of its beauty.
As soon as I drive down the tree and azalea lined drive, my ears perk up at the sound of the peacocks welcoming me back. All of life’s stressors cannot seem to pass through the gates into Magnolia. While I am there, everything is magical.
This year, as every other year, I tried to come away with images that were something I had not already captured at Magnolia. This becomes more challenging each year. For most of my images, I used a very shallow depth of field. I spent most of my time photographing with a 105 mm 1.4 lens. Using the aperture of 1.4 allowed me to focus on my subject with a dreamy, blurred background.
I wanted to try a new take at the iconic shots. I was amazed at the incredible job they did rebuilding the damaged bridge.
Another iconic area I wanted to revisit was the avenue of the oaks. First, I used a wide open aperture to create a different look, for me.
I also used multiple exposures to explore the oak alley in a different way.
I am thrilled that I had the chance to spend time in my happy place during the peak azalea bloom this year. Until next time, Magnolia will remain in my dreams.
What is your happy place? I hope you will visit it soon!
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Well done, Mary. So glad you got to go again and even more glad that you chose to share your images with everybody!
Thank you, very much, Bill! I hope you are having a creative and joyful spring!
Lived in Charleston on a boat for 10 years Mary so always look forward to seeing your photos after you’ve been down there.
I would love to hear about your years living in Charleston sometime. It is such a special place! Thank you, so much, for your kind words!
Really enjoyed your new “views” of the Plantation! My first visit was so overwhelming with all the color and beauty to capture. Looking forward to visiting again in a couple of weeks and looking with fresh eyes.
Thank you, Gina! Magnolia can be a visual overload. I do recommend going as often as possible. You will see different things each time. Enjoy your upcoming visit!
It was a day well spent. Absolutely gorgeous!
Thanks, so much, friend! Great talking to you today!
So beautiful! I really like the photo technique. Makes me feel like I’m in a fairy tale! You are a little ahead of us with spring weather… looking forward to some warmer weather, soon! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
I hope spring comes your way soon, Lynn! Thank you for your very kind words! I always feel like I am in a fairy tale when visiting Magnolia. It is a very special place!
Beautiful collection, Mary!
Thank you, so much, Celso! Great to hear from you! I hope all is well with you and yours!