California Buckeyes hold fast to their hillsides in Russian Ridge as chilly fog whips past.

Seen here is the same group of trees in many other of my photographs from Russian Ridge Open Space. I enjoy photographing these same trees at various times of the year, because the landscapes in Northern California can change so drastically from season to season. In this particular scene, the California spring landscape explodes into color following a particularly rainy winter. I think it's my favorite time of year in this place. The valley floor is buzzing with renewed life. The buckeye trees which dot the hillside don't want to miss out either. While not yet in bloom, they rush to match the landscape in coordinated lush green hues.

Purchase “Valley Sentries in California Spring” Fine Art Print: