Western Blue Flax © 2010 Patty Hankins

One of the questions I get asked on a pretty regular basis is – why do I photograph flowers? Which is often followed up with – why do I have photos of so many wildflowers and don’t have photos of some of the more popular cut flowers?

Part of the answer is very simple – I love flowers. I love the colors, the shapes, the textures. And whoever said that if you love what you do – you’ll never work a day in your life – was absolutely correct. I never feel like I’m working when I’m in nature photographing.

But there’s more to it than that. Recently, I’ve realized that when I’m photographing I feel a sense of calm and peace that I find at no other time in my life. Nothing relaxes me more than to be surrounded by flowers looking for the perfect image to capture with my camera.

As I look at the flowers through my lens so often I’m in total awe at the incredible beauty and intricate details that I’m seeing. Even more amazing to me is the fact that the colors and structures serve the purpose of attracting just the right pollinator to the flowers to ensure the future of the species.

Yellow Trillium & Purple Phacelia © 2009 Patty Hankins

I also find an amazing connection to the greater natural world when I’m photographing. Not only do I see the flowers – but also the settings where they are. I’m often photographing in the mountains, or alongside a stream. I can hear the birds singing in the trees, the insects buzzing, the wind rustling through the leaves.

So for me – photographing flowers – especially wildflowers – gives me the chance to connect with nature, be inspired by the beauty I see, and be in a state of calm and peace. It is my hope, that through my photographs, you too can experience the same wonderful feelings of connection, inspirations, calm and peace that I experience when I’m photographing.

I’d love to hear why you enjoy flowers and spending time in nature. Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below or on Facebook.