California Part 1: The Huntington
I thought I was just visiting an art museum and botanical gardens. But my time at The Huntington became something more—a sweet pause in the midst of life’s constant motion. I hadn’t realized how much I needed stillness, a moment without agenda or expectation. Just space to observe, reflect, pray, and be still before the Lord.
Ethan and I had flown to California for the Shepherd’s Conference, planning to celebrate our anniversary afterward. Originally, I had arranged to meet a friend, but when she had to cancel at the last minute, I unexpectedly found myself with a few days alone. This was probably the first time I had ever explored a place as a tourist by myself, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.
I waited for a sunny day to visit, which turned out to be a wise decision. I had anticipated a beautiful collection of art and gardens, but what I found was something far more intentional and breathtaking. Every pathway, every bloom, every carefully designed space felt like an invitation to slow down and truly see. I have to say that the entire experience far exceeded my expectations.
Sixteen themed gardens stretched across 130 acres, each transporting me—sometimes to another country, sometimes to another time. From the elegance of the Shakespeare garden to the tranquility of the Chinese garden, I moved slowly, allowing each space to unfold before me.
In those quiet moments, I became more attuned to the details—like a unique rock face hiding a gentle stream, where two ducks splashed playfully, their feathers shimmering in the sun. Had I not been alone, I might have missed it.
Of course, I had my camera with me. To simplify and challenge myself creatively, I chose to carry only one fixed lens: my 35mm. Without a zoom, my feet had to do the work. It’s easy to see the world only through a camera lens, but I believe the real art lies in first seeing with your own eyes—then lifting the camera as an extension of that vision.
My step count testified to how much I moved that day, but I hope my photos tell the story of all I saw. The only thing they can’t capture are the quiet moments of solitude—sitting in an open field or on a shaded bench outside the 1891 mansion—where I could simply be still before the Lord.
I hope these photos inspire you to slow down, observe, and create. But more than that, I hope they encourage you to pause, pray, and delight in God’s creation.
Soli Deo Gloria!
—Dianne
The Japanese Garden
The Japanese garden felt more organic, with earthy tones and minimal architecture, allowing the natural beauty to take center stage.
The Chinese Garden
The Chinese garden, however, was my favorite. It struck a perfect balance between architecture, lush greenery, water elements, and thoughtfully designed shapes—creating a harmonious and immersive experience.
Other Gardens
For the rest of my time at The Huntington, I didn’t have my camera out as much, especially indoors. (Honestly, after too many past experiences of being told to put my DSLR away in places like this, I just didn’t want to deal with it.) Instead, I focused on enjoying the art collections, exploring the library displays showcasing original manuscripts including a Gutenberg Bible, and admiring the grandeur of the Huntington mansion. I did snap a few photos on my phone in those spaces.
This is a funny scene from their tea house. I cropped in the next photo just so you can see the contrast between these two guests. The opposing clothing styles and colors cracks me up.
This is just outside of their tea room. I believe they use many of these plants for their food and tea. What a garden!
This unique plant was from the Australian garden.
This was taken in the desert garden.
I found this scene to be interesting. I took it at the Hungtington mansion, the former residence of the Huntington family.
