Honorable Mention
Foggy day at Stangala
DESCRIPTION
A serene, fog-draped summer morning in the Stangala Valley, an enchanting natural haven nestled near Quimper in Brittany, France. This valley is part of the larger Parc Naturel Régional d'Armorique and follows the course of the Odet River, often referred to as "the most beautiful river in France" due to its clear waters and scenic route through verdant landscapes.Stangala is known for its dramatic, steep cliffs and dense, ancient forests, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers. The image captures the valley’s signature mystical charm, as a soft fog lingers between towering oak and beech trees. Moss and ferns cling to boulders along the riverbanks, creating a tapestry of deep greens. The Odet River, which in parts narrows into gorges, glides quietly through the mist, while sunlight barely penetrates the thick canopy, giving the scene a subdued, almost otherworldly glow.
Local legends suggest that Stangala Valley was once home to fairies and spirits, adding to the magical atmosphere of this remote woodland.
AUTHOR
My scientific training as a geophysicist and my long-standing interest in art, literature and poetry inspire me to observe the world through my camera. My Covid-19 lockdown challenge was to get a professional-level in photography, and after some studies and exams, it has been such a personal achievement for me to be graduated with first class honors in summer 2021 (official national french exam).If the word photography literally means “writing with the light”, then I think this activity is a perfect compromise for me, somewhere between art and science. Because, ultimately photography relies on the optical properties of light, and its famous duality “wave” and “particle” described by quantum mechanics, used for creative purposes.
