The Shake Off

Alakajay, Black And White Photography, Photography

Labor Day morning at the Smithsonian National Zoo offered a quiet moment of focus amidst the holiday crowds. Stepping out of the pool, this tiger sent a halo of backlit spray into the air, turning a split second of motion into a striking study of contrast, texture, and force.

Florida Coquina

Photography, Black And White Photography, C.S. Young Jr.
Coquina Composition 1
Coquina Composition 1

Coquina is a sedimentary rock composed mostly of seashell material which becomes cemented over time.  I found this sample serving as a wall on St George Street in St Augustine, Florida.  My post last week featured the Castillo de San Marcos fort, which was originally constructed out of coquina. 

Fort builders favored conquina stonework because of its ability to absorb cannonball impacts.  In fact, often an embedded cannonball was recovered and then fired back at attacking forces.  For the best viewing experience, click to view a high-resolution version.

Cheers,

C. S.