The earth, moon, and stars participate in a timeless dance. Moontracks are the result of photographing this choreography as it is scribed on the fluid surface of water. Because the photographs average eight-hour exposures, the liquid canvas can change dramatically from start to finish: water can flow and move, freeze and thaw, agitate and still. The camera and lens also participate in the dance, anticipating the moon's arc from east to west, its height above the horizon, and when and how the celestial orb will appear on the surface of water. Complicating these relationships is water's evaporative nature, the flux of the lunar cycle, and unpredictable weather and clouds.

I began photographing Moontracks during a contemplative and introspective moment in my life when I recognized Time as my most valuable possession. One can always find ways to make more money. One can gather wealth and stockpile riches, but we cannot create Time, nor can we save it for the future. Time exists right now, and though we're free to choose how, Time's very nature forces us to spend it.

Many new ideas arose from my nights photographing Moontracks, and I intend to put several of these ideas into practice in the coming years (if I'm so lucky). In the mean time, I can reflect on the images created during those long, cold, lovely nights and feel satisfied that each is Time well spent.

View "The Making of Moontracks" in our video room.