One of the main subjects I am drawn to now in my journey to photograph the beauty of the natural world is the prairie, and the amazing textures and colors of grass that make up this often unappreciated environment. True, the prairie and plains are relief challenged environments and they may not bring to mind the incredible vistas of rugged alpine terrain, but I personally have found that if you take the time to experience the prairie and really see it you would be astounded at the beauty that is present. One of the goals of this web journal will be to highlight my vison of the prairie and hopefully illustrate that the beauty of nature extends well beyond spectacular the red rock country of the southwest or the unquestionable grandeur of the mountain environment. To that end I present the next image from my recent Midwest trip.
Smooth broomgrass grows thickly around a lake in Crescent Lake NWR, Nebraska ©Stephen Weaver
Photographed in the Sand Hills of Nebraska in Crescent Lake NWR, this image highlights the luxuriant growth of grass surrounding one of the many lakes in the refuge. I was blessed with great clouds and soft light and the different layers and textures as well as the near-far composition help to make this a satisfying image.
Stephen Weaver Photography/Earth Systems Imaging : The Art of the Landscape 
Very beautiful…I love Crescent Lake. Its a great area to photograph. I happen to live 40 miles from here. If your ever in the neighborhood drop me a line. Love the Nebraska Plains.
Thanks Steve. The Sand Hills are becoming one of my favorite areas to photograph the prairie!
Mr Weaver,
I’m from the sandhills and it’s where my family lives now, but I am currently deployed and miss home every day. I stumbled upon your photos and looking at them made me so happy, it was like having a little visit back. Thank you so much for the beautiful work that you are doing and this little moment of bliss for a girl overseas.
Elizabeth
Thank-you for the kind words about my work and I am very happy that my images are able to give you a bit home.
Thank-you for your service!
Steve