Queen Of The Forest

Photograph by Steve Kernes

Step One: in a park in my neighborhood I walk by the remains of a cottonwood tree dozens of times noticing its anthropomorphic nature. I take many photos.
Step Two: take Wanda, a hair model mannequin I found on Craigslist to the scene to see if "she" will fit into the tree and add interest to my developing vision. She fits perfectly. I take many photos.
Step Three: as I examine my photos it becomes apparent that more props are needed. My 9 year old granddaughter loves princesses and has many toy tiaras and crowns. I borrow a plastic crown that fits just right and return Wanda to the scene and take many photos.
Step Four: I study the photos and feel that the flat sawed off limb on the left is perfect for one more prop. It has to be something that fits the space and enhances the fantasy. My wife has a large collection of vases and bowls and similar items. The chalice is the final piece and I head back to the tree for the umpteenth time with Wanda and her crown and the chalice. I shoot the final photos pre sunrise with many curious walkers and runners and bikers gawking at the scene.
Step Five: submit this off-the-wall image to the Shiny Prints photo contest.