Going barefoot is the gentlest way of walking, and can symbolize a way of living.It's the feeling of enjoyment beneath our toes...it removes the barrier between us and nature...(AdeleCoombs,Barefoot
Dreaming)
While there is perhaps a province in which the photograph can tell us nothing more than what we see with our own eyes, there is another in which it proves to us how little our eyes permit us to see. ~Dorothea Lange
And how fitting is it that I stumbled upon your photo?
Really nice composition. Many diverse elements of texture ... the wood, the stone, yes, of course, the water ... yet, they all work well together. And this is certainly a direct result of how you framed the shot.
Initially, I thought it was too busy ... but, after viewing it for a few moments ... I got 'caught' up in it ... and got pleasantly lost.
I really like the overhanging branch. It is one of the stronger elements and I am now curious if you have other shots from this scene. Perhaps, one that is more overhead and includes more of the water? Just curious, not really a criticism ... but, there is some irony in your title ... the water is not at first, readily apparent ... intentional or no?
Streams have a wonderful unique smell all their own. Mud, greens, mineral water, a very clean and alive scent which takes a little bit of getting used to. I grew up around them and looking at this picture makes the smell and sound come back to me. This is a very pretty and alive shot. Great work. Thanx for sharing with us............Amaris