I was being a bit dramatic when I named this photograph. But, in my defense, it does look somewhat ominous as well as mysterious.

I actually made several different versions of this image before settling on this one. I like the darkness of it and although the other ones I made had lighter tones and therefore a bit more obvious detail, they lacked the feeling that I wanted to convey.

That feeling is one of lonely strength. This landscape is a place only inhabited by wildlife that’s rarely seen by humans. But their reclusiveness belies their ability to survive and thrive in austere conditions.

When you look at the photo, you naturally imagine what’s lurking just beyond the trees, in the deep shadows. You have to wonder, is it more dangerous for the creatures who live there, or for an outsider who tries to enter.