a (snowy) walk in the park

Winters in Vermont are long and cold, with snow as the dominant feature of the landscape. While a fresh blanket of snow can be a feast for the eyes, it often comes hand in hand with frigid temperatures and treacherous roads. Yet, some of my favorite images have come from braving these conditions to capture the raw character and solitude of a winter snowstorm.

Earlier this week, I had just such an opportunity. The local forecast predicted soft snow falling at an undulating pace through the morning. Equally important was a temperature hovering near zero, allowing ‘wet’ snow to cling to trees and branches.

These were the conditions I had been waiting for. Inspired by the work of Christophe Jacrot and Chris Killip’s image Cookie in the Snow, I envisioned snow-laden trees creating a clean, uncluttered backdrop for figures walking through a local park—alongside whatever other scenes the park itself might offer.

The initial results follow. As with all my work, they may evolve as my emotional connection settles and I fine-tune my edits.

Exposure times varied between 1/40s and 1/800s. My intent was to capture a sense of motion and gesture in the figures I encountered while being mindful that slower shutter speeds might turn falling snow into gray streaks. Fortunately, that concern proved unfounded—perhaps because the flakes were small and light.

I love how snowfall sculpts the environment, adding character to a scene. In turn, it shapes the gestures and motions of those who choose to face it.

Though the pull of warmth and shelter can be strong, I’m always grateful when I embrace these moments - looking back on the experience with fondness

I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences and see if our favorite images from the set align.