Rangoli flowers to celebrate Diwali

Day 2 of my photography/walking the Isle of Dogs challenge

Today’s choice of where to walk on the Isle of Dogs was easy. I heard yesterday that the Rangoli flowers were on show in Jubilee Gardens in Canary Wharf, so that’s where I headed. For a few years now, Canary Wharf has celebrated Diwali by floating these flower wreaths in the water of the ponds in the gardens. They look fantastic close up but I imagine they look magical from above, looking down from the office windows all around. Of course, not many people will be in the offices to see them this year since most people are working from home again.

It was a very relaxing morning. I only took one camera and my 50mm lens so I was travelling light. After I had a few photos of the flowers, I experimented with shapes, light and dark. It’s really good to have these carefree days. Sometimes when you have an objective in mind there’s no time to experiment but it’s this kind of creative free for all that sometimes leads to new ways of looking at things which bakes itself into your photography for the future and into your style, I believe.

So I didn’t cover a lot of ground today as far as walking goes but I did fulfill my goal of not rushing and taking an in depth look at my surroundings. Once lockdown is over, we might look back on this opportunity with nostalgia.

I realise I’m very lucky to be able to do this without worrying and I don’t take that for granted. My heart goes out to everyone who’s lost family, friends, jobs and businesses. Hang on in there - this too will pass! x

Rangoli flowers in Jubilee Gardens, Canary Wharf, London

Day 2 challenge complete . See section around Heron Quays and Canary Wharf stations. Jubilee Gardens.