Csaba Daróczi's Image

Csaba Daróczi (Hungary) reveals the beauty of the fronds of water violets through the surface of his neighbourhood canal.

Usually in May, Csaba sets out to photograph the flowers of water violets emerging in the canal near his home. But in 2022 it was a cold spring, and none were in bloom. Instead, he used the soft light and ripple of the water to show the plants’ underwater world.

Csaba became fascinated by the beauty of the fronds and the patterns on the water’s surface. ‘What I like about the picture is that it’s somewhat difficult to decipher the sight, the viewer wonders what they’re seeing,’ says Csaba. ‘I like to create a picture that makes the viewer think. This image was like that.’

Water violets are in fact related to primroses and are widespread in ponds and slow‑flowing water. Their flowers are on tall spikes while their leaves either remain submerged or float on the surface of the water. Needing lots of light, they can be outcompeted by other plants if the water becomes too nutrient rich.