When Janesville-based photographer David Abb and his wife visit her mother in Green County, Abb sometimes takes the opportunity to explore the scenic rolling hills of farmland and forest in southwestern Wisconsin. He captured this sunset northwest of Monroe on a cool evening in July, when the corn was well past “knee high.” We asked Abb to talk us through this month’s Big Picture.
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating great design!
What is your favorite thing about this photo?
There are two things that really pop for me in this image. The first is the colors of the sky and the sun. The second is the mist in the background that seems to be creeping in.
Is there a story behind this shot?
On Wednesdays my wife and I would travel to her mother’s house to help her with chores, groceries and often treat her to a wonderful dinner out. Many times, while my wife spent time with her mom I would explore the area. Due to the landscape, sunsets were often magical. This has provided many great memories that I can look back on fondly.
Tell us a little about yourself as a photographer.
I am from Janesville but love to explore many other areas as well. I consider myself to be a hobbyist photographer that is slowly turning pro. My main specialty or interest is landscapes and sunsets. When I go out on any hunt, it’s not always what I am seeing but what I am feeling that really dictates the images I shoot. The scenes really need to bring out an emotional reaction for me to record them. My main goal is then to help others feel what I am feeling while I shoot.
What was the feeling you had when you captured this shot?
Sunsets have always been calming for me. It really grounds me from any stress that I have held on to throughout the day. That is what this image helped me with: calming, relaxing.
Is there anything else you’d want people to know about this photo, yourself or your photography?
My photography is only part time – it is an outlet that helps me stay centered and focused. My full-time occupation is helping adults with special needs in a day center. My photography business is Abb’s Tracks Digital Photography.
