The magnolia, ancient and mysterious, always has something to offer the curious photographer. Often, when I am trying to warm up, to find my groove, I look to the magnolias that are so plentiful around here. There is usually a composition to be found, an interesting stage in the life cycle of the plant to document. These shots in the bag, I find I am usually in the proper mindset to continue photographing. Over time, we all develop our personal warm-up routines.