Where Growth Begins

This apple tree with a ladder was taken to symbolize that in life, we all have to climb the proverbial ladder to achieve our dreams, even if our head might already be in the clouds. It is about grit, determination, and the mental fortitude that it takes to succeed. I photographed this scene at Jaeschke Orchards in Adams, Massachusetts on a warm, cloudy spring day. It was inspired by the work of one of my favorite nature photographers, Ansel Adams, and captured in my signature high contrast black and white style.

There’s always another ladder to climb, another milestone to reach. If we’re not growing, we’re standing still. If we’re not ascending toward something new, we’re moving away from our goals. Somewhere between the earth and the sky must be where the work happens.