Welcome to Part 2 of my Creatures of the Tide series! For this post I’m featuring a cluster of barnacles and sea snails I found on a nearby rock. I love the color contrast between the snails’ shells, and the neutral color of the barnacles. The shells range from a dark grey to purple. One of the best things about this photo? It holds a secret surprise! If you look closely, you’ll find there’s a snail inside the shell of a barnacle. Photos like this not only showcase the variety of sea life, but also the surprises that are in plain sight. Join me next time for Part 3 of this series!
Tag Archives: tide
Creatures of the Tide: Part 1
While taking a walk at a waterfront city park, I decided to explore a small beach that featured lots of drift wood and rocks along the shore. Looking closer, I found several limpets clinging to the rocks and driftwood. The one pictured below was hiding among some barnacles. Nature is all around us, but sometimes we have to slow down to find it. Small creatures like these are a unique way to bring the outdoors into your home. A collection of similar photos gathered together would make a great collage to update your space for the summer. Stay tuned for more pictures featuring creatures of the tide found along the shoreline!
The Artistic Algae
Nature has an amazing way of being artistic without even trying. Case in point? The picture on the right shows an algae bloom that, due to the tide and current, formed into a beautiful swirl pattern. I love it when nature does the work for me! Want to capture a similar picture? Look for areas where the current is slow or gets trapped by debris. These are the best places to find something that is likely to form a pattern. So what are you waiting for? The weekend is the perfect time to get outside and take a great photo. With an eye out for the unusual, you’ll be able to easily get the perfect shot!
Life within the Rock
While taking a walk along the shore, we often ignore the rocks and boulders we encounter on the sand. However, one day I decided to stop at a large boulder that was partially submerged in water. What did I find? A myriad of sea creates! From barnacles to clams, and even fossils, I was able to get a glimpse of an underwater kingdom. Want to display a similar type of photo in your space? A coastline or tide pool is a great place to take a photo that exposes part of the underwater world. Depending on your location, you can photograph starfish, sea anemones, fossils, barnacles, and other sea life. No matter what you photograph, you’ll be showcasing the wonders of the ocean while adding cool summer decor to your space!
The Landscape at Low Tide
I checked out my local wildlife refuge one afternoon and was surprised at what I saw. We arrived at low tide and could see part of the landscape that was usually underwater. It was amazing to see the stark, yet serene, land that was exposed to the sun. You can image all the aquatic wildlife and water fowl that would enjoy this area at high tide. A picture similar to this one would be a great focal point in a den or bedroom. The serene landscape and pop of blue from the sky go with any decor and add a touch of serenity to your space. Want a similar picture for your own space? Check the tide tables for your local waterway, beach, or wildlife refuge. With a camera and a little planning, you can have a picture of a hidden underwater universe.
The Incoming Tide
As I was walking along the beach I saw the water coming in and flowing over the rocks. I thought it would be an awesome shot if I could capture the tide. It took a few times, but I got it! I love how you can see the clear water with the sun glittering off it, and all the different rocks underneath the surf. Despite their different colors, the rocks go together seamlessly. This is the beauty of earth tones. Plus, you’ll also notice rocks that provide pops of color (red, orange, etc.) that are mixed in. This photo would be a great basis for decorating your space. Try using earth tones as a base for larger pieces then add pops of color using accessories. Additionally, you could buy a clear bowl or vase, fill part of it with rocks (easily found at your local craft or big box store), add shells, water, floating candles, and viola! You’ll instantly have a look that’s both beachy and elegant. Remember, inspiration can be found right outside your door, so be sure to keep an eye open to the world around you!