By Shunmei Zheng
After the harrowing events in 2020, many want to look forward to 2021 as a time of new beginnings. These pictures symbolize that as the sun rises, a new beginning arrives. Despite 2020 being a long and gruelling year, 2021 is the year in which many will yearn to resume the lives they missed. With the hope of widespread vaccinations right around the corner, 2021 already is the rising sun- placing hope into all hearts for a semblance of normal, so dearly missed.
Wavering [Norfolk, VA, USA, January 2021]
I took this picture approximately around 6:00 A.M on a chilly morning, as the sun reflected off the waves provided for ample opportunities. I always enjoy photographing waves, especially because they capture the light so well in the morning. The light in the morning and evening is most ideal for me because it is still present and not overly harsh.
Diffusion [Norfolk, VA, USA, January 2021]
In order to get to this location, I had to step down to this rocky beach which was hard to walk on. From here, the two bridges appear to go on across the Chesapeake Bay and look almost symmetrical. The ocean seems to almost merge in the back until one cannot see its end or the beginning, giving an impression of diffusion.
Withstand [Virginia Beach, VA, USA, February 2021]
The sun is directly positioned between the wooden posts, which are slightly decaying and rotting. Some of the posts are not positioned exactly straight up, but to different angles as well. I enjoyed this setting a lot, especially because it was so peaceful and calming.
Tangerine [Virginia Beach, VA, USA, February 2021]
The background looks almost like a nectarine or another fruit, which is where the title came from. The shades of orange only seemed to get darker as one looks further, with the lightest shades at the top.
Moonrise [Norfolk, VA, USA, February 2021]
The moon was crystal clear on this specific night, and one can see the details quite distinctly on the surface. There are craters and dents, which makes it such an otherworldly landscape. This is one of my favourite photos because the moon seems so ethereal, especially up close.
About the Author
Shunmei [Sophia] Zheng is a sophomore in high school, and in her free time, she enjoys watching various Netflix shows, baking, and cooking. She also travels and has also been to over thirty-five National Parks and twenty-five states in her lifetime.