One Autumn Day with My Camera
Photo by Mark Wieman
My father-in-law passed away exactly one year ago. Before he died, I felt helpless. I wondered what I could do for him. I wondered how I could ease his suffering, even just a small amount. He loved his family, his church, and camping. His favorite place to camp was Ensign Ranch in Cle Elum, WA.
Photo by Mark Wieman
He spent a lot of time at the ranch over the years. He worked there, volunteered there, and played there. So many memories. When he got sick, he was living in Utah and hadn't been to the ranch for some time. At a certain point, it became clear he probably wasn't going to see it again.
Fall brings magnificent color to the ranch. One November day before he passed, I decided to make the trip out to the ranch from Seattle. I wanted to try to capture some images that might put a smile on my father-in-law's face.
Photo by Mark Wieman
The afternoon was glorious. I roamed around the ranch property with my camera, shooting whatever scenes I came across. As the sun set, I felt so grateful the conditions and timing came together.
I sent prints of the photos to my father-in-law. He liked them. He put them on his wall. I hope they gave him an ounce of relief or happiness during his final days and weeks. I think they did.
Photo by Mark Wieman