United States Texas Caddo Lake Ancient Cypress Tree Morning Light Black And White

I’ve spent a lot of time on Caddo Lake, drifting quietly through those slow, reflective channels where the ancient cypress trees rise straight out of the water like old guardians. This photograph comes from one of those calm Texas mornings when the air feels thick, almost suspended, and every sound seems softened by the swamp. I remember easing the boat to a stop when this particular tree appeared ahead of me—perfectly lit, perfectly still, and carrying the weight of centuries in its bark and hanging moss.

What drew me in immediately was the way the soft morning light skimmed across the branches. The Spanish moss draped over each limb created its own gentle curtain, catching the highlights just enough to feel alive without losing any of the quiet mood that defines this place. In black and white, that interplay of texture becomes even stronger—the contrast between the rough bark, the delicate strands of moss, and the deep shadows of the forest behind it gives the whole scene a striking sense of depth.

Caddo Lake has a rhythm unlike anywhere else in Texas. Nothing rushes here. The water moves in slow ripples, and the trees seem to breathe along with it. Photographing this region requires patience, and I’ve learned that the best images come when you let the place set the pace. On this morning, the light was shifting just enough to reveal those fine tonal transitions that I love—the kind you only really notice when you sit with a scene long enough to let your eyes adjust. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left the lake itself.

In this image, the cypress stands almost like a portrait subject—solid, weathered, enduring. The black-and-white treatment brings out its sculptural presence. You can see the years written in the trunk, the branches weighted by moss, and the soft illumination carving through the tree’s layered structure. I wanted the photograph to feel grounded, timeless, and honest to the atmosphere of this part of Texas. There’s no drama added, no embellishment—just the quiet power of a landscape that has spent centuries shaping its own character.

When I look at the final print, I feel the same sense of stillness I felt that morning on the water. If you’ve ever visited Caddo Lake, you know that feeling immediately. And if you haven’t yet, this image captures a glimpse of what makes it one of the most hauntingly beautiful places in the southern United States. 

If you’re drawn to scenes like this, you might enjoy Cypress Trees in the Texas Swamp Wall Art.

© Dan Kosmayer, 2021