This image evolved as part of the "Mike Montana Gold Signature Series" collection in early January 2000. It became the second image of a sub theme called "Water of the Rockies". The motion of water is captured in this abstract shot-almost masquerading as a black and white photograph.
The image takes on a unique mood portraying softness, quietness, and peacefulness. The viewer can absorb this mood and appreciate the magnificent power of water.
I am by no means a black and white photographer. I don't think anyone will ever replace Ansel Adams, as the greatest black and white photographer of all time, especially of the wilderness. I do appreciate black and white photographs and the nostalgia often associated with B&W images. My preference is colour because I am trying to portray the wilderness as the eye sees it. This image has very little real life colour in it, and so it conforms to my standard of "real life in the abstract". It is an exception to the rule, which makes it stand out to me.
Sunwapta Falls is the only place that I have ever seen a Fisher in the wild. This was quite an event, second only to the sighting of a wolverine in the Yoho Valley and Opabin Plateau.
Utilizing an architectural screen in my camera enabled me to get a perfect shot that would include the round bowl on the bottom right, a testimony to the power of water and time.
Mike Montana
