This post is all about the “Explore the Elements” photo challenge that Thomas Cook is doing.  This challenge is all about trying to capture the four elements (earth, water, fire and wind) in four different travel photos.  These elements are found almost everywhere when traveling, but the hard part is trying to pick a great photo that most embodies each element.  Here are my photos of the four elements.

A note about the photos:  All four photos were taken on location and once they were taken, they were never photoshoped, or edited in any way.  This was done to try to keep the elements in their most pure form, showing their beauty and faults at the same time.

Earth: Taken at the Black Temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand.

This solid stone statue is getting consumed by the trees and moss all around it.  Even though rock is a strong element that comes from the earth, the moss can still take it over.  This transforms a good piece of art into something that looks more like a part of nature.

Water: Taken in Khajuraho, India.

A pool of rain water forms on the ground to give a different view of the surrounding temple.

Fire: Taken in Varanasi, India.

The Ganges is a very spiritual place for many people.  Many everyday activities are done on the banks of the river, ranging from washing clothes to yoga.  Some of the biggest activities that are done along the river are funerals.  This photo is the reflection of a funeral fire in the water of the Ganges.  Even though I was told I could take a photo of the actual funeral, it felt too intrusive to do so.

Air: Taken in Lumbini, Nepal.

As a storm grows closer, the air starts to move fast, causing the wind to blow these pray flags rapidly.

Here are five travel bloggers that I hope will do this challenge.

Helene Kwong, Hector Diaz, Joanne, Seasiangirl, Plantpowerednomad