Becoming part of nature

A walk through the woods can sometimes bring you into close contact with interesting man-made things. I believe these man-made things can be relevant and offer powerful and interesting photo opportunities. In this case I was directed by a friendly lady to get a closer look at an old, long-abandoned schoolhouse. This is an old building that has been vacant for many, many years. I photographed it from all sides and found this perspective most telling. A large limb from an old red oak tree has fallen onto the back roof, nearly knocking down the whole back wall of the old school.

I did not enter this old building and strongly discourage anyone from placing themselves in danger while out taking nature photos. Always be sure it is OK to enter an area by asking permission from the land owner, especially if the area is posted.

The history of such a place may be of human interest and could be compelling. Although I consider myself a nature photographer, I sometimes find an exciting human element seemingly lost in the woods and slowly becoming one with it. As I stood photographing this image, a sudden gust of wind blew autumn leaves from the trees onto me as if schoolchildren from years ago were beckoning to me.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo column by Aaron Horrell.