Two Evenings with Fine-Leaved Water-dropwort

Near Csákberény, there is a small pond where wildlife comes to drink during this relentless heat. I originally went there hoping to photograph some of those visitors, but instead I became fascinated by a plant growing in the shallows: fine-leaved water-dropwort (Oenanthe aquatica).

As the water level has dropped, its unusually thick, sculptural stems have been revealed. Standing in the mud, they reminded me of a small grove of trees — each plant with its own shape, branches and character.

I spent two evenings experimenting with the low light, reflections and glowing background around them. Here are four different interpretations of this unexpected little subject.