Lens-Artists Challenge #384 | What Astonishes You?

I read the theme before we left on a snowmobile ride – “What Astonishes You?”… This could be a fun interpretation for everyone! I felt so intrigued to read the “astonished” theme and yet as we were riding I completely forgot about the word! 🙂 I did remember Beth’s one photo in her blog post of looking up at a large tree. A beautiful big, strong tree with lush greenery on the top. Its an incredible collection! Please be sure to check out Beth’s post and her beautiful examples here!

As we were about to leave, my husband noticed I had my small camera bag with me, he cautioned on how cold it was, and yet, I strongly felt I needed to have it with me – with my larger travel zoom lens. Riding in -20 weather I knew the battery would be limited, however I was open to what I may encounter to photograph. As I rode, I tried to remember what the theme word was, and couldn’t, so rather than look it up, I trusted that when the time was right, I would get the perfect images.

As we were riding, my husband stopped, and signaled to all of us to stop behind him. As we looked to our right, I saw 2 beautiful big deer standing in the field in front of the trees. I knew in that moment, exactly why last night when getting my camera ready I knew I needed the longer zoom reach. Such a cool experience to encounter nature, in its element, when on the trails. Not only encounter, but also a form of trust. When a wild animal doesn’t run, and you can respect each other from a distance, so beautiful!

This was the first image I took of them, I had NO clue there were 4 deer until we were pulling away and I looked over and all 4 of them were standing. I hoped that one of the images would have captured all of them – so astonished that it did!

I love this weeks theme, thank you so much Beth! So many times I am out shooting and its when I get the images onto my computer that I am hit with that astonishment! Jaw dropping even…

SO happy that a closer up image, captured all 4 of them! I had my Canon RP with me, so it was 100% using the screen on the back as a focal point to capture the deer, with gloves on in -20! Worth it!!!

Astonished honestly, as I did not see the two deer laying down!

A very cool experience for us on the trails today. I am grateful I listened to my intuition and grabbed my RF 24-240mm lens rather than just my 28-70mm – the extra reach was astonishing 😉

My fav… a vertical of the 4 deer! Oh how happy I am that this set up worked and was comfortable to wear for an afternoon ride!

And for my spiritual ones, I love all things energy, of course I had to look this up when we got home. Intuition… I captured these photos because I listened to my intuition, to grab the longer lens. Feeling the alignment, to lean in more!

The Deer Spirit Animal Symbolizes~

gentleness, intuition, and grace, representing a powerful yet tender approach to life’s challenges. As a guide, the deer encourages opening one’s heart, embracing vulnerability, and navigating life with inner peace and sensitivity, while also offering protection, quick, and careful action. 

Key Aspects of the Deer Spirit Animal:

• Gentleness & Compassion: The deer acts as a reminder to act with kindness and compassion rather than force. It represents the power of a gentle heart in overcoming difficulties.
• Intuition & Sensitivity: Known for being highly attuned to their environment, the deer guides you to trust your gut instincts and pay attention to subtle energies around you.
• Grace & Speed: People with the deer totem navigate life with ease and grace, adapting quickly to new situations.
• Vulnerability & Strength: While innocent and sometimes shy, the deer is also highly resilient, embodying a “delicate yet tenacious” nature.
• Renewal & Rebirth: Due to the seasonal shedding of antlers and their reemergence in spring, the deer is a powerful symbol of regeneration, growth, and new beginnings. 

Source – Online