Have you ever noticed the signature colors of your local area or other places you’ve seen around the world? For much of my life, I went about my daily routine rather blind to the colors and details of my surroundings. It only seemed when I traveled someplace new that I noticed the vibrancy and character of a city or rural landscape.

Then, several years ago, I developed an interest in photography. I found, with a camera in hand, my eyes began to notice the rich, intricate details of my surroundings. I discovered a new appreciation of familiar places and a deeper awareness when visiting new ones.

When I visit New England, the place I grew up, my eye is caught by the reds of barns, old mill factories, covered bridges, colonial homes, and brick-sided buildings.

In Northern California, where I live now, my eye is drawn to the vibrant Spanish-influenced colors liberally used in seaside villages, boutique shopping centers, and local town centers.

And, in Greece, where we go every year for vacation, I’ve fallen in love with my favorite color palette, Aegean Sea blues.

What’s your local color?

Inspiration: 2017 Favorites.