Photographers are notorious for this on social media. When we are in the warmth (or otherwise) of summer, some photographer is bound to start the trend with a post beginning, “I can’t wait until Autumn!” Autumn is no sooner here than I start looking for the inevitable, “Is anyone looking forward to winter?”, followed by some magnificent snow scene. And of course, we are not long into January before a lovely picture of a bluebell wood appears on our Instagram feed. “I can’t wait until Spring.”

It has to be admitted that there aren’t many posts from landscape photographers saying, “I can’t wait until Summer”! Something to do with sunrise being too early, light being too harsh, too many tourists - you know the drill.

But photographers aren’t the only ones who ‘can’t wait’. “I can’t wait until the exams are over.” (I get that one!). I can’t wait until the mortgage is paid off. (I understand the longing.). I can’t wait until the kids are older and we have more time for us. (Hmmm.).

Here’s the thing. I can wait!

Perhaps it’s my age. But every time I read a photographer saying, “I can’t wait for Autumn”, I want to shout, “I CAN wait!”

Of course I get it that, at least for some, this is not an expression of impatience but of anticipation. I also understand the importance of having something to look forward to, the importance of hope. And I love those gorgeous autumn colours. But let’s not rush lest in rushing we miss what is before us.

Landscape photographers have the wonderful gift of shooting and savouring the seasons. We notice, compose and frame the changes. We are immersed in the ancient rhythms of creation, liberated even for a few hours from the safe and sanitised world between four walls where we spend so much of our lives.

From my (almost daily) walk this week on Portstewart Strand, mid Spring with all its changes of light, weather, sea temperature , wave strength and beach contours. What’s not to love?

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter. Let’s embrace them, while we still have the opportunity. To everything there is a season. Whether it is the garden, if we have one. Or the green, or the local park, a nearby wood, a favourite beach. Take time to breathe, to notice the changing light, shifting colour palette and slow transitions as all falls into step with the seasons.

Every moment is precious. Don’t wish your life away, even in jest or as click bait on social media. Enjoy the anticipation, but learn to make the most of the waiting.

I can't wait until... photographing the seasons

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