Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Stunning Beauty: Sidelit Small Raindrop Leaf

We are surrounded by so much stunning, breathtaking beauty. Every day. This was a small leaf, laying on the sidewalk on my morning walk. I got on my knees to take the picture to get the detail. I love the shadows of the raindrops, many shadows with white glowing centers. I love the delicate webbing of outstretched ever widening, ever smaller veins. I love the center stem of the leaf with its green and red splotches. I love the soft greenness of the leaf as it contrasts with the rough concrete. I love how the tip of the leaf is rounded and eaten away. I love the pine needles resting nearby the leaf. So much beauty. So much.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2022
Photo Location: Lacey, Washington, United States of America
Camera: iPhone 12 Pro
Copyright: © DAN WINDISCH