Always on the prowl for new locations to photograph, I came across this decaying chapel that is located in Gonzaga Park in Orange County, NY. I decided to photograph it in the golden hour before sunset, as the position and angle of the sun enhanced the golden and red color of the foliage that enveloped this abandoned house of worship.

I was fascinated by this structure, and researched more about its history; this is what I found.

Gonzaga Park is a fairly new Orange County, NY park. On this site in the earlier half of the 1900’s stood the Seven Springs Mountain House, a popular retreat for vacationers. The facility would later become the Gonzaga monastery and former Jesuit retreat center.

Falling into decay in the 80’s and 90’s, the main facility was destroyed in a controlled burn in 2000. The property was then purchased by the county. Still visible today are the well enclosure, the large octagonal chapel once attached to the monastery, a service building, and a smaller chapel back in the woods.

“Forsaken Worship”

The internet is a wonderful tool for locating new areas to photograph. One of those areas turned out to be this beautiful Gazebo that is located in Garrison, NY, right by the banks of the mighty and historic Hudson River.

I chose sunrise so that the west bank of the Hudson River would light up in the first rays of the November sun. Also, this where the West Point Military Academy is located. As an added element of interest,the early morning temperature was below freezing, and with the combination of warm river water, a wonderful mist formed on the water’s surface.

“Misty Autumn At Garrison Gazebo”

 

I’ve written before that I am not one to constantly photograph the same subject matter, year in, year out (especially after capturing it to my satisfaction).
I am always in search of photographing new material, and the internet does offer this advantage.

This “new” discovery for me is the Speedwell Dam, located in Morristown, NJ, and it was an hour’s drive to get there from my home. I arrived a few minutes before sunrise, and after setting up and composing in my head, as well as a few practice shots, I came away with this early November Magic Hour image.

“Paradoxical Elements”

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