Botanist Pressing Flowers Near Hefei Lake

Midsummer light reflects off the water's surface, casting a shimmering glow across the wet grass near Hefei. A botanist stands at eye level, carefully arranging vibrant wildflowers into a press. Low-hanging clouds diffuse the late-afternoon sun, softening the shadows on the white paper pages. The texture of the pressed stems contrasts with the smooth, damp earth. Green leaves and delicate petals rest against the rigid cardboard frame. One droplet of water rests on the edge of a leaf, catching the reflected light from the nearby lake. The scientist's hands move with precision, securing the specimen against the paper.