I have photographed in Texas several times for extended periods, and have enjoyed the exuberant displays of spring bluebonnets in the hill country, the austere desert landscapes of Big Bend National Park, and the exotic bird life along the Mexican border near Brownsville. But I never connected spiritually to the landscape until I camped for nearly a week in Lost Maples State Natural Area, located in the hill country.

This reserve features a grove of Bigtooth Maples and is supposed to provide some of the best autumn color in Texas. I was there in May, when the rich greens of spring growth brought the landscape alive. Most of the days were sunny and bright, but on my last morning at the park there was a Seattle-like drizzle. I was enthralled with the soft light. I remember a couple seeing me come off the trail, tripod on my shoulder, asking skeptically if the gray day was good for photography. I responded that it couldn't possibly be better!

Lee Rentz