A lovely update to a series by American photographer Whitney Hayes (previously featured here). Currently living and working in Manhattan and New Jersey, Hayes began taking photos professionally later in life–after raising a family and caring for her mother who was stricken with early onset Alzheimer’s. For the past three summers Hayes has been working in the Highlands Natural Pool in Ringwood, New Jersey. “Solemn August” is an effort to reflect that “magical” place:

“Unexpected, it is an oasis in the middle of a forrest. A place that is welcoming to all, and full of untouched natural beauty, these images have been a joy to create. A non profit, the pool is largely maintained by a dedicated group of board members who volunteer their time. True to the pool’s origins, the board members maintain a chemical free pool that is open to the public and kind to the environment.”

See more from the project below!