Waterton Lakes Tree of Life

Waterton Lakes Tree of Life, the making of an amazing image.

Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, offers an array of breathtaking scenic options. Among the smaller yet significant features is a resilient tree situated along the shores of Upper Waterton Lake.

Positioned just east of the campground in the town site. This enduring tree has withstood centuries of challenges. Including hurricane-force winds and wildfires that have claimed other trees in the park. During my time living in Waterton, it became a cherished spot where I would stroll in the evening. Seeking solace beneath its branches while observing the rhythmic waves caressing the shoreline or the final beams of sunlight casting a warm glow on the mountains to the east.

Although tens of thousands of people pass by this tree annually without a second glance, it holds a special place in my heart as an old friend I make a point to visit every time I return to Waterton. I’ve captured its essence in photographs across every season and weather condition imaginable.

One particular day stood out from the others when I photographed the tree. Waterton Valley was enveloped in a dense fog, diffusing the light and veiling distant views. Venturing to the lakeshore, I directed my camera westward, encompassing the rocky shoreline, grasses, and trees surrounding the iconic tree.

The resulting image captivated me instantly. It offered a unique perspective of the tree, distinct from my previous captures. Back at the editing desk, I experimented with various effects and then decided to eliminate all green tones from the picture. The transformation was remarkable; the tree popped against the background, especially with the retained golden color that lent it an almost ethereal quality.

The Print – Waterton Lakes Tree of Life

Inspired by the golden highlights, the image naturally evoked thoughts of the Tree of Life or the central tree in the Garden of Eden. Sharing it with customers at the office, the response was unanimous – everyone fell in love with the photograph. Printing it on metallic paper accentuated the gold color, enhancing the image’s overall allure.