SeeCalifornia.com

The master of moods, Paula Schultz (paulasphotoart.smugmug.com), returned from Lavender Ranch (lavenderranch.com) in Biggs, Calif. and is treating us to a preview of her great imagery once again. While others strive for strong contrast and ultra-rich colors, Schultz does the opposite when needed, reducing saturation for greater focus on composition and emphasis on lighting, which allows the scene’s subtleties to show more readily. Take a look at this award-winning photo to see her handiwork in action!

About lavender: There are many lavender festivals and events in California, thanks to the increasing number of farms growing lavender, which appears to offer many benefits we’re just coming to realize.  Among the possible uses are: treating anxiety, insomnia, depression, and restlessness, help digestive issues such as vomiting, nausea, intestinal gas, upset stomach, and abdominal swelling, help relieve pain from headaches, sprains, toothaches, and sores. It is also used to prevent hair loss and repel insects. Lavender oil could be effective in combating the incidence of antifungal-resistant infections, as well. Plus, you can cook it in foods, put it in drinks, and wear it on your skin for soothing scents.