A drone caught this image of a dead whale that washed up on a rocky beach. Nobody knows how or why the whale died, but we humans have a particular soft spot in our hearts for whales, and it’s always sad to see one go. But more often than not, whales washing up on shore is a sign that humans have mucked things up.
It’s a sign of our apathy and mindless consumption. We dump oil and plastic into their habitats. We treat earth’s resources as if they won’t run out. Dead whales washing ashore should ring alarm bells. What does it say about the world when sights like this are so common we’ve stopped reacting to it altogether?
The City of Homs, Destroyed
The civil war in Syria began in 2011. The opposition forces were headquartered mostly in the city of Homs. This photo shows the extent of the damage: the city is almost entirely abandoned and is largely destroyed. The Syrian civil war has sadly rained death and destruction upon much of that country.
Skeletons of buildings stood standing where there once were thriving businesses and vibrant communities. In a flash, Homs had transformed into a ghost town. No matter one’s political or religious leanings, it is impossible not to feel compassion. A reminder that innocent people trying to lead upstanding lives always pay the highest price in war.
The Moment of Truth
Heartstopping. This action shot of an eagle just a split second before it catches a fish could scarcely be any better. Stunning and awe-inspiring. It’s no wonder eagles are symbols of power throughout the world. Look at the outstretched talons, the focused eyes, the soaring wings. The thrill of the hunt is palpable.
One can almost feel the rush, the sheer speed and power emanating from this majestic bird. And this isn’t even a video. What makes an outstanding photograph? How photographers portray emotional depth in an otherwise still image. Is there anything about this photo that isn’t a work of art?
Boats in a Row
Beauty is what everyone makes of it. But there’s something stunning about symmetry, especially when unintended. Lines, colors, shapes, and angles align beautifully in this drone image. Pretty boats are lined up in a row. Muddy waters on one side and brown cliffs on the other make the perfect backdrop.
It’s serene and still, as if the universe conspired to make this moment happen. And maybe it did. Not many people know that the drone captured this image at a gathering of the First Nations Trust in Canada. The boats serendipitously became a symbol of indigenous pride, unity, and purpose.
Scare...Clown
Think that’s a scarecrow? Wrong! It’s a scary clown. we have no idea if this was a staged scene, but what’s for sure is that it’s supremely weird. Okay, bye bye now, Sir Clown! Crows that dare venture into this field have a surprise waiting.
One can imagine the birds taking a quick detour, not so much out of fright but sheer confusion. We get it. We don’t know what to feel about this either. Best to steer clear. And while we’re at it, what exactly is the deal with scary clowns, anyway? Aren’t clowns supposed to be fun, funny, and adorable?