Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. - 1 Corinthians 13

Welcome to Mansfield Photography, where I invite you to delve into the cherished memories of Steinhagen in Texas. Allow me to recount a remarkable journey that unfolded into a breathtaking experience, leaving an indelible mark on my heart.

Arriving at Lake Steinhagen

As a landscape photographer seeking the perfect shot, I arrived at Steinhagen Reservoir one afternoon in Late January. The area was almost deserted because of the time of year and cold temperatures. While I would want to write I was filled with excitement and anticipation, my wife and I were having some problems, so I was rather melancholy and recluse. However, I was eager to capture the essence of this place, so I embarked on a scouting mission around the Martin Dies State Park, discovering promising spots to visit later that day and the following morning.

The evening that followed, unfortunately, turned out to be a disappointment for photography. The conditions were not in my favor, and I couldn’t capture the beauty I had envisioned. Nonetheless, I held onto the hope that the morning would bring new opportunities.

That night, as I settled into my camping spot, the frigid temperatures were a stark reminder that winter has arrived. Throughout the night, I woke up frequently, thinking about life, and my marriage. Little did I know that the next morning would hold an awe-inspiring surprise, a gift from God.

A Morning of Hope

Before the first light of dawn, I awoke and decided to get out and start looking for photo opportunities. I peered into the darkness, only to be greeted by an extraordinary sight. Massive fog banks had gathered around the lake, shrouding it in an ethereal embrace.

As the sun made its grand appearance, casting its gentle rays upon the landscape, Steinhagen Reservoir came alive in a symphony of mesmerizing blues and delicate pinks. The fog danced and swirled, unveiling a scene of unparalleled beauty that took my breath away.

With a renewed sense of purpose, I swiftly moved from one area to another, guided by my earlier scouting. Each step brought new wonders into view, as if nature herself had orchestrated this grand performance solely for my lens. The changing light and the misty veil created a captivating atmosphere that defied words.

Throughout the morning, I immersed myself in the enchantment, capturing each fleeting moment with reverence and gratitude. The lake, the fog, and the interplay of colors became my muse, allowing me to walk away with a collection of photographs that encapsulated the very essence of this divine gift.

For me, as a landscape photographer, this experience was more than just a successful shoot. It was a profound connection with the magnificence of nature, a humbling reminder of the artistry that lies within our world. It was a gift from God, a moment of grace that I will forever cherish and hold close to my heart. I left to go home, and my wife and I reconciled. For me, this will forever be the morning of hope brought to me by Jesus Christ.

Steinhagen Reservoir, with its breathtaking landscapes and ever-changing moods, serves as a testament to the wonders of the natural world. Join me in celebrating the beauty and grace of this remarkable place, where nature’s gifts unfold in ways that touch our souls and leave us forever transformed.

Author: Tim Maxwell