Last week, we made a lovely excursion around the picturesque village of Peretshofen. The decision was born from a trusty Sunday-walks guidebook we had purchased some time ago, which filled us with inspiration for leisurely walks near charming villages. Peretshofen is not far from our home, a serene village with just a bit over a hundred residents. Its long history intriguingly dates back to the 12th century. The village itself doesn’t feature any major or bustling roads, contributing to its tranquil appeal.
We didn’t rush our start that day. After enjoying a delightful breakfast, we arrived around 10:30 AM, ready for our adventure. We parked our car just outside the village and began our walk.
A Photographer’s Ambitions
As we embarked, I had goals beyond simply enjoying a pleasant walk and spending quality time with my wife. I hoped to capture some scenic photographs, practice including interesting foregrounds in my shots, and keep potential locations in mind that might look stunning during the golden or blue hour. This day was also an opportunity to showcase the typical look of our area.
As we proceeded, the walk rewarded us with beautiful views all around. The southern mountains wore a gentle layer of haze, creating an unexpectedly warm atmosphere.
Cyclist’s Dream
We encountered several cyclists along the way. Some rode solo, while others formed small groups or even a larger peloton. Considering the landscape, it made perfect sense to see cyclists here. The area offers nice roads, limited car traffic, no major routes, and a delightful mix of elevation, all framed by picturesque scenery. A cyclist’s dream!
Capturing Reality
At times, I hesitated to snap a photo. I found myself pondering whether the scenery was special enough or if the light conditions were good enough. However, I recalled conversations with people from distant places, people who have never experienced the beauty of our villages or the area itself. I thought, why not share this picturesque landscape through my lens? Though I might not have captured extraordinary sunrise or sunset shots, I aimed to portray the everyday reality, as if those faraway friends were walking alongside us.
I sense a Photo …
As our walk drew nearer to completion, we followed along a winding road, gracefully tracing an S-curve. Instinctively, I sensed that this scene could serve as a compelling motive for a photograph. Through my camera, the view initially appeared just as a road and a meadow, yet I was hopeful. I thought it worth experimenting in black and white.
Upon arriving back home and reviewing my captures, I felt validated in my instinct. The black and white development of that particular shot truly resonated with me, evoking the very essence of our experience.
I hope you enjoyed these glimpses into our little walk around Peretshofen!