Christmas is one of the most enjoyable and challenging seasons to photograph. The feelings of peace, coziness, anticipation, and reverence are the invisible impressions I strive to create in my final works of art. This rarely comes by accident but is achieved through experience, forethought, and creative deliberation. Here are the highlights of Christmas 2006.

This Christmas tree is situated very stately before our living room fire place. The stone hearth, warm fire, and illuminated Christmas decorations enhance the splendor of the shining spruce tree. A narrow aperture and thus an extremely long shutter speed culminate in a comely composition.

There are many perspectives to the age-old and well loved manger scene. Rather than using the harsh exterior light of flash or strobe, I resorted to the warmth and softness of candle light to produce a traditional image telling the story of Gods great love and sacrifice. Everyone is there, from parents and wise men to shepherds and their flocks. A star of light was deliberately placed above Jesus’ head to add an implied message of life and meaning.

Here is the same manger scene, just a different perspective. Looking now from the interior of the stable, we now get the impression of closeness and a greater sense of admiration and reverence. The highlights and shadows play an important role in this picture.

Contrast is the key to this image. You can not easily see the house but its outline is visible because of the Christmas lights. What greater comparison is there that shows the contrast of a Christians light to the darkness of the world? Decorating our home with this symbolism has been a Christmas tradition for as long as I can remember.

This is a very simple composition but was fun to put together. The swirls of blue light on the surface of the blue bulb go together very well. Again, a narrow aperture, long shutter speed and a tripod were needed to make the light bulbs as a starburst.

Last but not least is another manger scene. This one is very simple. The procession of wise men and the informality of the shepherd with his flock make for a friendly and cozy representation of that special night. As I was still using candle light, it was difficult to keep the shadows from becoming too confusing. Instead, the shadow arrangement enhances the simplicity.