"Minuet"

As a child growing up in the Soviet Union, I once saw flamingos on television. Their elegance left an indelible impression on me. I imagined a scene where two of these graceful creatures crossed paths, their movements resembling a delicate ballroom dance. That vision lingered in the back of my mind, vivid and unchanging, for years.

Decades later, while photographing in a bird refuge in Florida, I found myself face-to-face with these extraordinary birds. For two days, I observed them tirelessly, waiting to capture their innate grace. Then, I saw two flamingos approaching one another from opposite directions. Instinctively, I calculated where their paths would intersect. I pointed my camera there, focused, waited, and took a shot.

When I later printed and framed the photograph, I realized it was exactly as I had imagined years ago in my childhood. I believe photographs are more than mere images they hold the intention of the photographer and the energy of the moment and place in which they were created.

Through my work, I strive to honor the spiritual beauty of nature, hoping to share its blessings and grace with others. My wish is that when you look at my photographs, it brings you a sense of peace and wonder.