Bob Ellis Photography

Thanksgiving Birding Weekend

2011-11-26T14:52:00.000-08:00

Well...So I rent this 50-500mm Sigma lens for a week during Thanksgiving break. Do I always start these off with Well...So! Hummmmmmmm! Thanksgiving day is a bust. I want to spend the day with family and friends. So I did! Even met a FB friend for the first time. That was Thursday. Friday, Diane says, weren't you told you would be needing brakes on the Prius soon. That was 15000 miles ago. Perhaps, with all the traveling I have been doing and want to do, I should have the brakes done. Take the car in to have it done and was told there was a recall on the water pump. Day two....another bust! That's Friday. I took Monday to have more time with the lens, so now I only have 3 days left to get some pictures. Wake up this morning and it is so overcast I didn't know if I'd get any decent pictures. Never did clear while I was out. It ook forever to get use to the lens and get the camera adjusted properly. OK, I didn't go through my normal checklist before shooting. Have you ever done that. Nothings turning out...WHY! Traveled 152 miles, did I get any decent pictures you ask? A few! Want to see them? OK! You probably should have not read this and gone right to the images. That's what I would have done.

"American Pipit"

Sandhill Cranes"

"Snowy Egret I"

"Snowy Egret II"

"Great Egret"

So little for as much traveling I did. You can imagine how I felt when I got home.

"Great Blue Heron"

Like This! Badly focused. Hopefully, I will do better and see more birds to photograph the rest of the weekend. I hope, I hope, I hope!

Bummer...til the end!

2011-10-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

Bum Day...til the end.

by Bob Ellis on Friday, October 28, 2011 at 8:01pm

So I decide to go for a ride this morning at 6:00 am. Hadn't decided where to go, but thought I'd see what Apple Hill was like. Still looking for fall colors. I was disappointed when I didn't see any, or very little in the area. So I decided to see what was going on in Hope Valley. Zip! Colors were faded and leaves on the lower part of the trees were on the ground. Overall, the day was disappointing for color. Don't get me wrong, but it was quite different from 2 week ago. The clouds were in abundance a couple of weeks ago, but zip today. Even though the ride was still beautiful. No traffic! I hadn't taken a picture for the first 275 miles. Is that discouraging or what! How can I save the day? I took the Ebbitts Pass and ended up in Angels Camp and continued on through Stockton. Knowing that the fall colors had ended for me, I started thinking of what was next on my yearly list. Remember, I consider Fall my new photography year. Next, is birds. I seem to always get frustrated with this and wildlife photography because I haven't the lens for it. With a 1.7 teleconverter, my 200mm lens becomes a 340mm. In my book, not good enough for great sharp and large frame images of natures gifts. But I always try to get close enough to get an image.

I decided to see what the Sandhill Cranes were doing, because this is the time of the year you will start seeing them. They were in abundance at the Sandhill Crane Reserve. BUT! They were too far away. I did get some images though and here is one of them.

Sandhill Cranes 2011 (C)2011 Bob Ellis Photography

I hope to get back over there Sunday morning early. They always seem to be more active in the mornings and closer to the road. Keep your fingers crossed.

Frustrated, I started home and on the way I saw a hawk drop to the ground. It looked like one I saw last year and never figured out what it was. I used to bird all the time in the seventy's, but never perfected it. Besides, it's been a long time and I have forgotten a lot of it. I think I can safely say this is a Prairie Falcon, but, if I'm wrong please correct me.

Prairie Falcon 2011 (C)2011 Bob Ellis Photography

Then the day winner! I'm driving along a cattle farm and I see a flock of white birds flying along side my passenger window. A little distance from me. I thought...questioned...Snowy Egret. Not! They had to be Cattle Egret. When they landed, I stopped the car and pulled out my camera. They were Cattle Egret. I've only seen this bird in this area once, back in the seventy's. Not a bird you would normally see. I think! But there they were. Ugh! I need a longer lens. This is what I ended up with, but you can truly see they are Cattle Egret. Loosing their summer plumage, But here they are! Today's winner!

Cattle Egret (C)2011 Bob Ellis Photography

Well, that's it for the day. Another long, beautiful day. No real good fall color, but saved by the birds. Looking forward to more the the birding season. Then the fog season and crashing wave ocean scenes and much more. Enjoy!

Black and White or Color...

2011-08-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

I have found myself doing more black and white photography again. In my film days, using the wet darkroom, I did a lot of black and white. I sort of got out of practice of this wonderful process with the digital age. Now, using the digital darkroom I have rediscovered this wonderful media. It truly brings out the shadows and highlights and contrast of an image. I even find myself thinking while taking a picture, this my very well be an image for black and white. However, I also find myself working on an image and think, something is wrong! Lets try it in black and white and see how it looks. A great example of this is from an image took yesterday in the Calaveras Big Trees on Hwy 4. This image was taken at the Stanislaus River bridge in the park. I saw these holes in the rocks below and thought of how the water pounding on them may have caused some of this erosion. Thinking, as strong as stone is, water can break it down. Diane, my wife, said that the holes may have been formed by the Indians years ago while they were doing their daily chores. Possible, but I still saw the weakness of stone when the water pounds against it. Over many year of course, but still. You be the judge. I took this picture, as most of do these day in color. I love the image, but didn't like the blue cast caused by the shade when the picture was taken. I took the picture with a slow shutter to create more movement in the water. Here is what the color image looked like. I like it, but like I said, it was lacking punch.

"Water and Stone I"

Using Nik Software, Silver Efex Pro 2, I took this image and converted it to black and white. Immediately, the image popped and I loved it! I think you'll see what I mean and think the same thing.

"Water and Stone II"

See the difference. While most people only think color these days, black and white is truly still alive and when presented to the public, I think they see it too.

Off the subject a little. I took another picture of this same spot using a technique I learned from a wonderful photographer and teacher, Betty Sederquist. It's sort of ironic, because i found an article by he on the Calaveras Big Trees after taking this picture. You can find that article at http://www.sierrafoothillmagazine.com/calaver1.html. Anyways, while on one of her workshop trips I attended, She mentioned the use of movement of the camera in a longer exposure photograph to create interesting effects. At the same workshop, another excellent photographer, Ryan O'Keven, went one step further and moved the zoom on the lens during the long exposure, creating another interesting effect. I sometimes try these methods to see what I can get out of it and it worked well with this subject. Here is an example of this technique using the zoom movement

"Water and Stone an Abstract"

Color in this instance gave a cool and calming effect. Although this effect can be done in Photoshop, this was done in the camera. I hope this is an article that benefits some photographers. I always crave education and love to learn new ways to improve my photography. Enjoy! For more information on Betty, visit her site at http://www.sederquist.com. And for more information on Ryan, visit him at http://www.okeven.com

Shadows, Highlights, Lines and Angles

2011-07-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Well here it is the end of July, or close to it, and I have needed to get back to basics. So Diane and I visited Sacramento today to find some shadows, highlights, lines and angles. I sometimes need to get back to this place in order to train my eye for composition. It makes you think of what you are looking at and to frame the scene in the camera. When you get to the digital darkroom, The amount of time you spend cropping and adjusting the image, the more time you need to slow down and and evaluate what you are shooting before you snap the shutter. In my case, today was a total disaster. I need to do more of this to keep in shape. OK, so some of the images look great, if I have to say so myself, but I had to work at it to adjust the light and composition to direct the eye to the subject matter. So the eye doesn't wander. So, even though today is Sunday, a day of rest, it turned out to be a working day for me because of the time I spent analyzing my images from today's shoot. I thought I'd share my day with you and maybe you might give some constructive criticism. Enjoy!

"Stairway

"Community Amphitheater"

"To The End Of The Hall"

"Garage Window"

"Sacramento Lines and Angles I"

"Stanford House"

"Circles"

"Sacramento Utilities Plant"

"Heilbron House"

"Wild Thing"

2011-07-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

That's the name I call our yard in back. Diane likes it with a wild look, so our vegetable and flower garden is kind of wild looking. This year started slow, but seem to be flourishing. The flowers have been going since spring and will hopefully continue through fall. I have been trying to add new flowers or plants that give the yard a year round look. Winter is a tough one. But we like it and I thought I'd share it with you. It's been a couple of months since I've blogged so I thought I'd better do something. If you want to see some of my current work, it's best to look on facebook. I have been wanting to better my website and haven't been posting much on it lately. Hope you enjoy our yard. Til next time.

First Fruits

Chuck-Oso our guard panther

First time this year, horse radish

Spaghetti Squash

Just bloomed this morning...Crimson Grape Leaf Passion Flower

Same Ole' Thing! Or is it! "Yosemite"

2011-05-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

I've been told by many photographers that photographing something like the Yosemite is not so interesting. Or, it's iconic. "It's already been done"! But yet, every photographer that has the time or the opportunity, will get out there and take their own images of this spectacular area. I myself, have been to the Yosemite a number of times and I still take pictures of the same thing over and over. Trying to better the last one I took. But the main reason I do it over and over is I want to get the one someone else doesn't have. Each time you go to the Yosemite, the season is different or the weather is different. That's what makes an image different. I have met someone each time I go to the Yosemite, with some suggestions on something I haven't gotten yet. Or a technique I haven't used. It's exciting! So if someone tells you that the image you take isn't all that interesting because it already been done, take it anyways. Try to make it as different as possible. Make it your own, but you know the person you're listening to has the images their selves. Friday, May 20th, 2011, I made another trip to the Yosemite, and here are some of the images I took. Enjoy!

Mirror Lake I

Mirror Lake II

Yosemite Dogwood I

Yosemite Dogwood II

Upper And Lower Yosemite Falls

Bridalveil Falls

Yosemite Tunnel View

Yosemite Dogwood III

Yosemite Dogwood IV

Fern Springs

Where Two Creeks Meet

Nature's Creations

JUST GO! Get in the car and drive!

2011-03-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

I have been told by more than one, that I need to slow down and plan out my photographs. Diane and I took another ride Saturday and this was one of the topics of discussions I brought up. I do need to plan my trips better. I do need to concentrate on my images better. Experiment with my camera and know what I need to get the shot I want. I have to admit I am impulsive. Being a part-time professional photographer, the end of the week brings a need for a photo fix. Especially if the weather doesn't allow for you to use many of the weekends to do this. When I have the time, I just want to go. Sometimes not really getting great images. The rides with my wife however, is an important time for both of us. Time to ourselves and we have always enjoyed taking rides whenever the chance arrives. This weekend was no different. I said I need to and Diane said, I want to go with. The ride was a beautiful one. We couldn't have asked for better weather. There was snow in the Sierra's, a beautiful carpet of green grass all over the foothills and clouds everywhere we went. I have taken this route many times, but usually vary it for something new. So we took side roads in the areas we've been and hoped for something different. At first I didn't think I'd get many pictures. I really didn't compared to many other trips. But I did get some I didn't expect. Because of the weather, the scenery was different than the norm. Rivers were high and there were waterfall everywhere. I wasn't really mentally prepared for taking waterfall images, but I did grab a few. All and all, the day was wonderful. We took the time to re-visit a covered bridge in Bridgeport, CA. The one out of Penn Valley. Because I had been there before I had an idea what I wanted to do and I think I got a couple of new images I like. Different than the last visit. I re-took the Wells Fargo building on the same route and liked the results I got from it. I guess what I'm trying to say is planning is OK...and I need to do that, but sometimes It's nice to JUST GO! Here are a few of the images I got. I hope you enjoy them.

"Bridgeport Covered Bridge"

"Bridgeport Covered Bridge, Yuba River"

"Struggle For Survival"

"Well Fargo 1853"

"Ice Cycles"

"Frozen In Time"

"Hanging In There"

"Underwood"

"Bucks Creek Powerhouse"

"Creek To Feather River"

"River Crossing"

"Sandbags"

2011-03-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write something about this image because, I felt it important to mention how important HDR is today. In the past, we took bracketed shots metered for highlights and shadows. Using the digital darkroom to layere and blend for an ideal image. Even earlier in the processing of photographic images, we dodge and burned to increase highlights and shadows. Now, with HDR we bracket our shots and use some sort of plug-in or program to convert the image for better shadows and highlights. So, why is a composited image frowned upon today. This wonderful photo of one of my favorite places in Inverness, CA is a composite! Why...I added the clouds to improve the original image. The original digital image was over exposed in the sky area. And, somewhat in the rest of the image. Making it look like a washed out photograph. In the wet darkroom, I could dodge and burn to improve most of the picture, but the sky probably would still been lost. With HDR I expose multiple images to get all the information. Acceptable! Yes, today it is! So if we find an old image, like this one, will it be frowned upon because I added the clouds. Might be. It's a composite! But it's the same principle. I really didn't have to mention that it was a composite and no one would have known. Well, maybe some. But to be honest, I have to say it's a composite. I like it...I hope you will too. Enjoy!

"Sandbags"

February's Post

2011-02-27T22:02:00.000-08:00

WOW! Here it is, the end of February and I haven't posted anything. February actually turned out to be a fairly good month. Both in images and composites. I don't know where begin, but my love for black and white has grown stronger. I find myself looking at subjects and asking...would this make a great black and white image. I love it! Not only that, I'm looking at old images to see if they would look great in black and white. Another interest I have had and seem to want to do more of is composites. Especially, when there are no clouds in the sky's. I'm finding that using a texture or adding some clouds can make an image more interesting. Some might say that adding clouds to an image is falsely representing an picture. But is it, by today's standards. Composites are very popular today and overlaying a texture or adding more than one image to create an image is very acceptable. So, why not clouds. Especially if it's creating an abstract or fine art piece. The world of photography has change. And that's why I consider myself a photography artist. I hope you enjoy my images as well as my creations.

"Spool And Netting"

"Dock Piles"

(This is a composite)

"Ready To Go"

"Lighthouse Steps"

"St. Teresa Of Avila"

"Bodega Bay Harbor"

"Spring Lit Flowers"

"Picnic Area"

"Foggy Morning On The Lake"

"Tomales Bay Docks"

"First Signs Of Spring 2011"

"Backyard Sunset"

"Dairy Farming"

"Valentine Rainbow"

"Low Tide"

"Sand Paintings"

"Emerald Bay"

"Tree Of Wishes and Dreams"

2011-01-29T21:10:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I just love to play. Trying new things, improving on old things or just trying to push my artistic imagination to the extreme. I love this image. I had a lot of fun working on it and didn't know how it would turn out. I think it will be added to one of my favorites. This is an image I posted earlier. You might remember it. Enjoy!

Hwy 49/Tahoe Loop

2011-01-28T15:26:00.000-08:00

Diane and I had another wonderful ride last weekend. We started up Hwy 49, better known as the Golden Chain, and looked for the snow. I've never liked the snow from my early years in Michigan. But I think it makes beautiful winter images and I just had to get out there and capture some of them. The roads were clear and no chains were required. It hadn't rained here in the Sacramento Valley and there hadn't been much snow in the mountains, but there was plenty of snow to photograph. We didn't see much snow until we reached Sierra City, where we stopped for breakfast at the Red Moose Cafe. What a wonderful breakfast. We met a couple having breakfast and had a wonderful conversation. The owners/cooks were wonderful and I can assure you that we will stop again.

While I was eating breakfast, and looking out the window, I saw this image. The sun was falling perfectly on the scene and I couldn't wait to get out there and photograph it. By the time I took the picture, I was disappointed that the sun had shifted and I knew the light wouldn't be right. I almost didn't work on it, let alone think a nice picture would come from it. But I think it did. What do you think?

"Wagon Wheel"

After breakfast, we started up the road toward Sierraville in the Sierra Valley and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the Yuba River. From there we drove toward Truckee on Hwy 89 and on to Lake Tahoe and home. Here are some of images I managed to get. Enjoy!

Yuba River Movement

Yuba River Winter I

Yuba River Winter III

Yuba River Winter II

Little Truckee River

Aspen Grove

It was a beautiful day!

New Stuff! Winter In The Yosemite!

2011-01-22T12:16:00.000-08:00

I've been told, and asked, to put some of my new work up. When someone has linked from my website to my blog, there's nothing new. So I guess I better make a posting. I haven't been out much since the new year began, so there hasn't been much to post. So I decided to post the Yosemite pictures I took last weekend. There wasn't a lot of snow left, and I'm sure there will be more, but it was a fun day. Enjoy!

Tunnel View

Bridalveil Falls

Yosemite Falls

Half Dome

Sentinel Rocks

Pohono Bridge

Merced River Winter Glow

Three Brothers

The New Year

2011-01-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to the 2011 year. I hope to have many new wonderful images to share with all of you this year. I know this post is slightly late, but I have had a lot of things going on since the year began. Mostly thinking of where I want to go with my work and how I might increase my exposure. I really feel my work has stepped up in 2010, and feel I can put my work out there and feel confident I am as good as the other great professional photographers. It's taken a long time to get that confidence. I know there is still a lot to learn and I have learned through my years of experiences, that you never stop learning. I love photography and love getting out there and capturing all the wonderful sites that are available in this wonderful world. Starting right here in California. Looking forward to the times I might have in the future to venture out to other areas of this country and the world. However, I have discovered that my own backyard has a lot to offer if I just get out there and photograph it. So, not only do I hope for a wonderful and magnificent year for me and my photography, but I wish you all the best and that your dreams and challenges are special for you.

Merry Christmas Everyone

2010-12-24T12:47:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season. Be SAFE! Merry Christmas!

"Mariposa Barn"

2010-12-12T22:23:00.000-08:00

I was driving through my old neighborhood today and saw this barn. We moved from the area in 1985 when we purchased the home we still live in today. I lived in this neighborhood for five years and never noticed it. There was a huge tree in front of it when I lived there, and that is probably why I never saw it. I had just finished taking some portraits and camera was sitting on the back seat and I said to Diane, did you see that barn? I have to go back a take pictures. I loved it and the picture I took of it. I just had to share. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

"Mariposa Barn"

Looking through images of the year

2010-12-04T23:38:00.000-08:00

While looking through my images of this past year, I feel I've had wonderful and successful experiences. Not only the time I've spent with my best friend and wife Diane, but also the travel we've shared. Maybe I wasn't so successful in sales, but I was in inspiration, education, composition, color and last but not least, meeting many photographers and artist friends. Thanks for the inspiration, and confidence I got from all your suggestions, and from sharing your images and experiences. Every year I get a stronger feeling for my photography. I'm inspired more and more when looking at other artist works. I can't wait for next year, for new experiences and wonderful images. So thank you again. I truly love photography and being able to share my experiences with you.

"Looking Through The Trees" How can you not. There is more to see over each mountain.

Have a safe and merry holiday you celebrate and a happy New Year. Mine is Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ.

Photo Manipulation! WHAT!

2010-11-07T16:52:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a subject many photographers won't even talk about. A photograph is an image created with camera and that's it. Photo=Light and Graphic=Writing. So where is the line between that and art. Photographs are considered art...right! Manipulation of photos goes way back. How far? I don't know. The darkroom allowed quite a bit of manipulation with dodge and burn. You could even add negitave and positive objects to the photograph during exposure. I know, I've done it. By accident of course. Before color, I know that the painting of a photograph to add color wasn't uncommon. In my young years of photography, I colored a photograph of my grandmother with colors. Today we call it hand-colored photograph. I love it. It's great stuff. So, with today's technology, how far can we go. I am a photographer, and an artist. Can I do anything I want. You betcha. And I do. It's the customer who decides weather their buying a piece of art or a photograph. And I like to play.

There is another factor to consider today. High Dynamic Range (HDR). In the day, we as photographers would take three shots of the subject. It is called bracketing. Why? We couldn't see or preview the image like we can today. To protect ourselves we bracketed. Three shots, one normal exposure, one underexposed, and the third overexposed. Today, with modern technology, we can combine all three images with HDR programs to capture all the highlights, and contrasts for the best possible picture. Example, this is a normally exposed picture. Is it the correct exposure? Don't know, but this is what it is.

Pretty much right out of the camera. A little straightening, and slight exposure adjustment. It was a little underexposed. However, I bracketed my images and used Photomatix Pro and combined the three of them to get the following image. Combining contrasts and highlights with the normal image for this results.

Or here is one combined in Photoshop CS5's HDR Pro program. I have been using this one more trying to get a natural looking image.

So, you might ask, what can you do with this? Being honest, I bracket all my shots to get the best image any time of the day. So let see what we can do with this technology. We can do something like this which seems to be popular today.

and this

or maybe this

Depending on how much time you want to spend there are many ways you can manipulate an image. Is it then considered art rather than a photograph. Your the buyer, which is it.

Autumn Color

2010-10-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

I have been getting out every weekend this month to capture the fall colors of the Sierra's. There have been great moments and wonderful color scattered everywhere I been. But, this weekend, was the best. I have captured many images while searching for the color. Mono Lake, and Bodie Historic Park were great moments. I have been through Hope Valley, Monitor Pass, Luther Pass, through Bridgeport, over Tioga Pass, and to the Yosemite Valley. I've have also spent some time around Lake Tahoe. It's been wonderful. Diane wasn't able to spend all the moments with me, but she told me she was enjoying the moments through my picture. And that's what I want to do for you. Photography is something I truly enjoy and have a passion for, and I wish I could do it all the time. Maybe someday. In the meantime, here are some of the images I have taken. Some of them you may have seen on my Facebook page, but it's not hard to take another look. I hope you enjoy them as much and I enjoyed taking them.

Bodie Historic Park

2010-10-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

It's been about 20 years since my last visit to Bodie. Diane and I stopped this last Sunday for a few hours. I can see where the elements have changed the place considerably. I was remembering the first visit to Bodie years ago and how different it was then. I will have to go to my storage and try to find the old slides I took. When I visited the first time, there was just me and a couple of friends. It's popularity has increased quite a bit. Diane and I enjoyed our visit and I hope to do it again soon. I seemed to have focused on the inside of the buildings rather that the building themselves. I think Diane saw more of the buildings than I did. She wandered around while I took pictures. I waited patiently for others to move out of the pictures before I took mine. I have to laugh, another photographer told me, when I asked if I was in her way, that she had photoshop and wasn't worried about it. I have enough to do, I don't need to remove people. Especially when I use my vintage effects. It makes a more interesting image. Well, I'm rattling on and you might want to see what I saw, or what I found interesting. So enjoy!

A Sunday Morning Ride

2010-09-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

October is just around the corner, and autumn is too. Oh...It's here. I love this time of year. It's the most photogenic time of the year and bird migration is right here in our own backyard. The pacific flyway is right through the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys. And lets not forget the coastal flyway. WOW! So much fun. I decided since the Sandhill Cranes have been migrating in this past week, Diane and I saw three flocks of them ourselves, that we'd see how things were going. We took off around 6:00am this morning to get an early start. Diane had some work to do today and said she'd like to go if we got back early enough for her to get it done. We got a cup of coffee and started to think we'd miss the sunrise. No sooner did we get on the road, we hit traffic...on a Sunday morning? Everyone's in bed or at church. We never did figure out what the tie up was but it was frustrating.

"Hwy 80 Off Ramp And I5"

"I5 South"

After about a half and hour of this we finally got moving and did see a beautiful sunrise. No clouds this week, but still beautiful. Driving down Hwy 5 to Twin Cities off ramp.

We arrived at Consumnes Wildlife Preserve and I was disappointed. There were very few birds, waterfowl, etc. to be seen. I didn't even get out to walk around. I never do that. There's always something. I guess I was interested in seeing the cranes. So, we headed to the crane refuge. There were plenty of Sandhill Cranes to look at. And more coming in. Have you ever heard their call. It is quite interesting. They were very active, a lot of them in flight. I have to say at this point that I didn't get many good pictures of them and I was very disappointed in myself. I kept cussing about not having a long enough lens. It's just beyond my budget and will be for a long time. A good lens runs about six to nine thousand dollars. I have had good moments in the past and there will be more in the future, but today was the pits.

One thing for sure was that the winery grapes were plump and ready for picking. There we a few different types and I couldn't tell you what they were, but I had to photograph them.

For some reason, I can't pass up a silo. They fascinate me and I want them to look old. I know, there are new ones built as time goes on, but I like them old. So I decided to practice a little on my vintage work for a different look. I'm never happy you know. I always have to try new things. Here is the one I photographed today and played around with for effects.

There is always a hawk around and sometimes you can drive up on them and point the camera out the window and get a decent shot. This one had no fear. He/she actually posed for me. I love it when that happens.

Oh, one more thing. I just caught this little egret in flight. I really had to work on it to get it presentable. It wasn't quite in focus and I wasn't very happy about it. It turned out OK, so I thought I'd share it too.

Well, I'm looking forward to more of the migration and of course fall colors. I plan on making my yearly run on Hwy 49 to Sierra Valley to Lake Tahoe and down through Hope Valley. I also hope to make another Yosemite trip for fall colors and hopefully a High Sierra trip and maybe a trip to Moab. Boy, can I afford this. Probably not, but I will get as much as I can. I love this stuff. I love PHOTOGRAPHY! Enjoy and I will share more as time allows.

What to do...What to do?

2010-09-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

I think I have finally found a technique that I really like. It's a vintage look with a more realistic feel to it. I have been doing a technique for a couple of years now and I finding I like this one better. Here are a few examples of the difference.

I guess their different styles. They have different uses and will attract different clients. We'll have to see. Just wanted to share. Enjoy!

More Bugs!

2010-09-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

Again today...I was out looking at the garden and bringing in the crops when I saw a rustling in the marigolds. When I looked closer, I saw that a praying mantis had just grabbed a honey bee and started chomping down on its face. Yes, a little morbid, but part of the cycle of life. I ran into the house and grabbed my camera and macro lens and ran back out there and saw this bee being :o) devoured. (I know Joann, I'm not much of a PR person, but I love to write about my experiences). Before I finished the photo session, the bee was almost gone. What an amazing site. Interesting to see. You want to see? LOOK below! Enjoy!

"Praying Mantis Devouring a Honey Bee I"

"Praying Mantis Devouring a Honey Bee II"

Bugs

2010-09-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

So what do you do when you are bored and haven't had much photography time. Well, you go out and see what's in the garden. Take your camera and a 105mm f2.8 macro lens and a tripod. Actually, I found this guy this morning. It is the first tomato worm I've seen this garden season. I think it was voodood on me by a friend, or past friend, from work. He wished this upon me because I had such a great year of Heirloom Burgundy tomatoes. They have been so sweet and totally awesome on hamburgers. They have actually intermingled with my cheery tomatoes and this is what this guy is feasting on. Yummmmmm! He was a pretty good size too. At least 3.5 inches. I'm calling him a guy, because I don't think the ladies would like to be compared with one of these. Interesting creatures though. Maybe, you won't enjoy!

"Tomato Worm I"

"Tomato Worn II"

"Tomato Worm III"

Tomato Worm Montage"

"Tomato Worm Swirl"

Color or Black and White?

2010-09-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

I have posted, in the past, some of my black and white pictures and mentioned how much I like working with it. I think some pictures have more impact in black and white than in color. Black and white can show more drama, or emotion. It also gives a feeling of the past. Especially today when everything is in color. When we see black and white we have a tenancy to think the picture is old or at least a time from the past. Example...when my kids or grand kids see my wedding pictures they might say, and have said, you guys are old! Maybe we are! The truth is, color was available when we were married, but it was expensive. Still is for weddings! But, black and white can be more expensive when used for weddings today. Ironic isn't it! Black and white was still acceptable when we were married. But as color became more popular, prices dropped and color was all we saw for a long time. Still there were the old die hards that continued to photograph that way. Mostly landscape artists etc.

I have noticed throughout my recent photographic years, as I have been learning all phases of photography, whether it be portraiture, weddings, landscapes, seascapes and wildlife, that black and white has become more popular again and is asked for more and more. Especially in the wedding and portrait world. But, everywhere I go to view photographers work, I see black and white is still alive and well. In fact, combination's of the two are becoming more popular. It will be interesting to see where this all leads and what the future brings. Here are a few more of my black and white shots. I hope you enjoy looking at them. Some of them you may have already seen in color. Some you may have seen in black and white!

Having more fun with my garden images.

2010-08-20T18:41:00.000-07:00

I can remember when I was in high school, in art class, I always worked in abstract. My wife, Diane, worked realistic. We weren't married then. We laughed after we were married, when I photographed realistic and her in abstract. Now, I can combine the two of them and get a whole different feeling of reality and the abstract. Another avenue to work on. I love this stuff. Thanks Sara for sharing your techniques.

"Feeling Spring"

"Flaming Canons"

"Lilies Of The Night"

"Chilling Susan"

"Dancing Foxglove"

These aren't from my garden. They were taken in and around the redwoods near Trillium Falls. I love them, and hope you do too! Enjoy!

"Falls Promise"

"Trillium"

"Through The Woods"

"Tranquility"

Reflection Lake Another Branch

2010-08-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Again, you can tell I really loved photographing this lake. Can you blame me? Every time I ducked under a branch to look at another part of the lake, there was another beautiful scene to take a picture of. And yes, that is snow at the bottom of the picture. Enjoy!

"Reflection Lake Mt. Rainier V"

Another Reflection Lake

2010-08-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, I think Reflection Lake is one of my favorite places. Although I didn't get the reflection of Mt. Rainier reflecting on the lake, I got many other wonderful images. This was early on the second day in Mt. Rainier. The sun was just peeking over the mountain tops and I saw this beautiful high contrast vista. The lake was a little rough on the far side of the lake from a slight breeze, but turned out well. It was still slightly overcast which framed the picture well. Enjoy!

"Reflection Lake, Mt. Rainier IV"

The Grotto

2010-08-14T00:51:00.000-07:00

One of the stops on our trip to Mt. Raineir was the Grotto. It is on the outskirts of Portland, OR. We have wanted to visit this area and took the time before we left. We didn't have much time and didn't see the whole area. This type of photography isn't for everyone, but there was a couple of things I found interesting. And, I wanted to share them with you. We really had a strange feeling about this place. I don't know how to explain it. I could tell it was a very special for many people and a place for meditation. However, we felt it had to much of a commercial feeling to it. Just our feeling. These are the images I felt were interesting and had some power to them.

"The Grotto"

"Sacred Heart"

"Carrying The Cross"

Common Buckeye

2010-08-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Common Buckeye - Found this Buckeye in the yard today. Seems like I have to take the camera every time I go into the backyard. Always something moving around.

"Common Buckeye"

More Reflection Lake - Mt. Rainier

2010-08-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you that my favorite place in the park was reflection lake. We visited this area twice. This one happened to be early in the morning. Which seem to be the best time. The one disappointment was that Mt. Rainier wasn't reflecting in the water. Maybe the next time. It was still overcast on this visit. But beautiful. Enjoy!

Reflection Lake Mt. Rainier III

Willamette, Oregon

2010-08-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

This is a photograph of the area across the river from the Willamette paper mill. It shows more of the area on the side where the paper mill and the locks/falls are. It was late in the day and I was loosing light. But I just had to capture the moment. Enjoy!

"Willamette Paper Mill, Falls And Locks"

Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens - Lessons Learned

2010-08-06T23:50:00.000-07:00

The few days Diane and I had at Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helen's were wonderful. A lot of beautiful sites and moments as well as photos and relaxation. Photography is the main reason sometimes for getting out and doing these trips, but the time with Diane is always the best reason. Especially in these times where money is tight, and bills are not getting paid. I'm sure you are all experiencing this in some way in today's economy. Lessons learned...yes, you have to do things like this sometimes. The ride to Portland, where we spent the first night was long. Twelve hours! We did have to stop a couple of times for pictures along the way, but kept them to a minimum. One thing we did see on the road was a dirty truck with a window that couldn't be seen through. It didn't say wash me like most of them do. It did however, have a 3D word that I won't post. Different though. I did take a picture while my wife screamed, "not while your driving. Couldn't resist. We got as far as Umpqua River, where I thought I saw a waterfall. I need a sign that says, I stop for waterfalls. Missed the off ramp, darn it, but circled back around and found it to be a fish ladder. Quite beautiful and sort of rustic looking. Lesson learned: when photographing falling water, don't try to over do it. Use a slow shutter speed to give a motion look to the water, use a tripod. If you are doing an HDR, use an aperture priority mode and bracket your shots. DON"T try to do both. Believe me it doesn't work. The blending of the images will give you somewhat of a water movement. I prefer using a slow shutter speed in shutter priority mode. This one however, is an HDR bracked shot.

"Umpqua River Fish Ladder"

This is where I started thinking about how many pictures do you have to take? How many will you use? Lesson learned: None yet! Ask yourself, will anyone want to buy these? Probably not! Lesson Learned: Not yet! More on this later.

Just down the street form the hotel off the freeway and in a view point area is this magnificent waterfall/lock area. I have photographed this before, but didn't get the look I wanted. I was really liking this image and wanted to share it. This is Williamette River, waterfalls and/or locks. I think I will have to look more into this site. It is beautiful though.

"Willamette River Locks"

This area being so close to our hotel, we decided to explore it better. From the other side. Not with much luck. We couldn't get close to the area because of the paper mill, private propertly, on the river and blocking most of the lock area. On the other side of the river however, we got a glimpse of the waterfall and a better view of the paper mill. It was interesting in it's own way.

"Willamette River Falls"

"Willamette Paper Mill"

Well, this is probably getting boring to you, so I guess I'll move on. This trip was really a scouting mission to see the area and get to know it. Lesson Learned: You can't move quickly and achieve the photo someone would buy. I am a professional and you can't take pictures without thought and time to get it right and get something someone will buy. So, this is a trip we will redo in the future and take better pictures and more thoughtful pictures.

There are so many beautiful sites on this trip that you really don't know what to shoot, photograph. So I'll show a few of them and maybe post more as I get to them. The next set of pictures were around the Mt. Rainier area. It was overcast most of the morning and a picture of the mountain became doubtful. Still there were many opportunities for pictures.

"A Pathway To The Barn"

"Gray Jay"

"Avalanche Lily"

"Diane In Mt. Rainier"

This picture of Diane does not have Mt. Rainier in the background. It is more to the right and still couldn't be seen. Around 3:00 PM we got our first glimpse of the mountain. For a short time. What a beautiful site.

"Mt. Rainier I"

There were many more images of Rainier but we must move on and the next morning was better.

"Pink Mountain Heather"

"Reflection Lake"

"Grazing Fawn"

"Reflection Lake Pathway"

"Sitka Valarian"

OK...I couldn't resist. I had to include a swirl.

"Sitka Swirl"

"Mt. Rainier II"

"Hoary Marmot"

Lesson Learned: I have been drilling myself to use a tripod at all times. We were moving at such a fast pace, I barely had enough time to get out of the car and shoot. Never, never think you are steady enough to do it without some kind of support. Especially with a long lens. I took so many of this interesting mammal and it's mate and very few were usable. Low light area and long lens and no tripod. Always take the time and think of the shot. See the shot. Then take the shot. Make sure the settings are right too. The above gray jay was another great example of this mistake. Never say I can do it. Not with a camera and wanting to sell the pictures. Another one was this little guy, it isn't good enough to be used, but is an interesting creature.

"Pica"

Next we headed for Mt. St. Helen's. Beautiful ride in a beautiful area. Then you turn a corner and there is a totally different scene. You can see the devastation from 30 years ago. New growth, but the volcano blast left a scare. Here is a panorama of Mt. St. Helen's from Windy Ridge. We climbed 368 steps to the top of the ridge to get this shot. You can see there is still no growth in front of the blast.

"Mt. St. Helen's Volcanic Blast"

"Mt. St. Helen's II"

Spirit Lake, at the bottom of the hill is still filled with debris from the blast. Burned logs still sit on top of the lake.

"Spirit Lake"

Still, life has moved back into the area, and fir trees are replacing the redwoods lost in the blast. Remember, this is 30 years after the blast.

"Variable Checkerspot"

"Windy Ridge Sand Ladder"

A lot of the old redwoods still lay on the ground, showing more of the blasts destruction.

There was so much more we saw on the trip, but this is a few of the images I thought would be best to see. I will post more soon I hope. And, oh yes, can you take too many pictures? NEVER! But are they all professional grade. NOT! Most of them will be for memories. But, some of them will be something someone else was unable to get and might want to purchase. And some will remind you what you might want to shoot the next time. And believe me, I have found that going back and re-shooting makes for better and salable pictures. I hope you enjoy these images. I will enjoy working on more of them to show in the future.

Swirls...A day of fun!

2010-07-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

Had a lot of fun today. I should have worked on the yard. It was hot! So...through the inspiration of a friend on FB, and a how-to from another FB friend I took the day and played with SWIRLS! Had a lot of fun. Don't know what I'll do with the images, but their nice to look at. So here they are, enjoy looking at them.

"Purple Lily Swirl"

"Eye Of The Abyss"

"Red Sherbet Swirl"

"Rose Swirl"

"Squash Swirl"

"Marigold Swirl"

"Day Lily Swirl"

"Daisy Maze"

"Vanilla Delight"

"Egg Yoke Swirl"

"Orange Gerber Daisy Swirl"

More From Our Coastal Ride

2010-07-18T22:37:00.000-07:00

One of the first things we saw in the morning were these balloons going up. We see them alot on our way to the coast on the summer weekends. This time I literally jetted off the highway and headed down the ranch land roads. I took some pictures, which seemed to take second place to the actual coast images. After looking at them some more, I thought...I've always wanted to photograph a moment like this, but wasn't sure I liked the pictures. Study your images, see your thoughts and create what your impression of the moment was. Here are a couple of the images from the early morning. Enjoy!

"Balloons And Sunflowers"

"Ranch Lands And Ballooning"

"Balloon Rides"

"Light Me Up And Away We Go"

Makes me want to do more of this type of photography. Maybe the balloon races in Reno in September? We'll see!

A Trip To The Coast

2010-07-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

Just thought I post some of my recent work. Took some time an drove over to Bolinas and Point Reyes last weekend to get out of the heat. I have photographed this area many times, but It was a perfect day and the images turned out fairly well. So thought I share them with you. Enjoy!

"Coulters Matilija Poppy"

"Unknown"

(Haven't figured this one out yet)

"Launch For Hire"

(Tomalas Bay)

"Launch For Hire"

(B&W as if you couldn't see that)

"Shell Beach Tomalas Bay"

"Point Reyes Shipwrecked"

(B&W)

I seem to photograph this boat every year, but this year and this day the lighting was perfect. It was an overcast day and with a little toning I was able to get this image. I think it's the best yet.

"Birch Trees in Tomalas Bay"

Well, I hope you enjoyed them. I turned out to be a perfect day. Til next post!

"A Forgone Era

2010-07-08T00:39:00.000-07:00

Have you ever spotted a moment in the past and wonder what life was like at that time?

"A Forgone Era"

Constructive Criticism!

2010-07-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

Constructive Criticism. OK...we always here nice things about our pictures. Sometimes we hear nothing at all. Is that because we don't want to say anything negative. I'm putting myself out here. I sometimes think I overdue things. Even though I had great comments on this image. I know someone would say. I'd do something different. I like to stay as close to the original as possible, and still approach it like I think I see it. So what do you think on this one?

"Yosemite Valley Tunnel View"

(Original- Normal shot of an HDR 3 image shot)

"Yosemite Valley Tunnel View I"

(First attempt of HDR)

"Yosemite Valley Tunnel View II"

(Second attempt of HDR)

Give it your best shot. Let me know what you really think. If it's constructive criticism!

June Flowers...IS THAT ALL!

2010-07-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

Well, this is the time for flowers and waterfalls and such. Isn't that enough? Wasn't for me! Diane and I had one last chance to get out and take another ride. A good friend suggested that if I take all the long rides we do take and the amount of time we spend on those rides, why not take a ride to the Yosemite. WOW! We haven't been there since before children. So that's what we did. We got on the road at 4:30 AM and drove everywhere we could around this beautiful place. Diane and I mentioned a number of times during the day, why haven't we done this before. It's only a three hour drive. We arrived at the Yosemite entrance sign at around 7:40 AM and spent 12 hours in the park. What a beautiful place. I considered this a scouting trip, with plans to visit more during the year. And that's what we're going to do. Of course, this time of the year the waterfalls are flowing pretty good. This year however, it was the best its been in a while. With all the rain and snow this year, they were flowing with a rage. How do I know this you ask? That's what everyone around us were saying. You have to believe them. Well, to make a long story short, It was an awesome day in an awesome place with an awesome friend. My wife, Diane. Here are a few of the pictures I had the opportunity to take. More will come. I think! We didn't even see everything. We'll have to go back. Well, I hope you all enjoy our day with us.

"Half Dome I"

"Cascade Creek Waterfalls"

"Fern Spring"

"Fly Fishing In The Merced River"

"Yosemite Falls From The Valley"

"Fleeing Fawn"

"Yosemite Valley Tunnel View"

"Yosemite Valley Tunnel View Black And White"

"Half Dome From Glacier Point"

"Yosemite Falls From Glacier Point"

"Yosemite Falls From Glacier Point Black And White"

"Bridalveil Falls"

"El Capitan"

Well that's it for now. Seriously, there's more to come. I just haven't had time to get to all of them. I hope you enjoyed them. Talk to you soon.

May and it's beautiful bounty.

2010-06-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well...Here we are, the first of June. Half way through the year. Have I met my goals. Oh...you have to have goals to meet them. I did have some idea though, and I haven't come close to most of them. I am supposed to be in a restructuring mode for my business and I haven't had a chance to do much, other than think of what I'm going to do. DO I REALLY WANT A BUSINESS? I hated my first one so much I really think I'm one of those who is afraid of success. My first business was not in photography. I worked it for ten years. I keep taking photos though. I don't think I will ever stop doing that. I have taken a number of seminars this year so far. That's good! I continue to improve my work, both taking the images and the post work. I have spent a lot of time thinking of light and how to use it. If I can't capture it in the photograph, I work hard in the digital darkroom to achieve what I was looking for. I guess one teaches you how to look for it when taking it. It sure helps anyways.

May started out slow. I was wondering where the time went, and looking at what I had for the month. Not too much. Just some flowers. I like photographing flowers, and always look forward to it this time of year. Was it enough...NOOOOOOO! Did a lot of gardening though. So my wife, Diane, convinced me to get out before the end of the month and get some more. So, we did! We went looking for waterfalls here locally. Come to find out, there are a lot of them. I love waterfalls. So I photographed a number of them. Come to find out, there are about 300 or so of them in Northern California. I will have to make a point to see as many of them as possible. Unfortunately, there at there best this time of the year. Well, here I am rattling on and on and not showing you the bounty. Thank you for your patience.

These are the flowers, either from my yard, or wildflowers on our walks and rides. Lets start with our state flower and move on from there. If you click, or double click on the image you will see it a bit larger.

"California Poppies"

"Popping Poppies

"The Eye Of An Iris"

(Look Closely)

"Mandarin"

"Cali Lily 2010"

"Wacky Cali"

"Gerber Daisy 2010"

"Flowers In Abstract"

"Purple Bells"

"If The Winds Blow"

"Potato Vine"

"Yellow Azalea"

"Purple Stars"

"Purple Trumpet Vine"

"Ookow"

"Redmaids"

"Yellow And Wild"

"Canyon Dudleya I"

"Canyon Dudleya II"

"Bush Monkeyflowers"

Whewwwwww! Did you think these would ever end? Are you bored yet? OK, how about some of the waterfalls we saw. Enjoy!

"Bear River"

OK, not really a waterfall, more of a rapid. Off Hwy 174. It was still awesome.

"Roadside Falls I"

"Devils Falls"

"Yuba River"

OK, OK, another rapid. Couldn't resist.

"Hidden Hillside Falls"

"Pauley Creek Falls"

"Loves Falls"

This was a two tiered falls and I couldn't get all of it together. Was sort of aggravating. The bottom part of the falls was much more powerful, somewhat like the above Pauley Falls.

"Big Springs Garden Falls"

"Roadside Falls II"

There was some fun stuff too. Here are a few of them.

"Sandhill Cranes"

This was a real surprise for me. I see a lot of these during the winter months, but they migrate and you don't see them during the spring and summer. At least I haven't. They are usually gray with some brown/rust spots when I see them. It was great to see them in there summer plumage.

"Fence Decor"

"Happiness"

"Valley Springs"

"Checkerspot"

"California Sister"

Well, I know this is a big post. I probably should post in smaller amounts, but I have decided that the fees for copyright registration would be better budgeted on a once a month basis. I hope you understand this and enjoyed the photos. I enjoyed sharing them with you. I also did some high school senior pictures this month, but haven't gotten the release yet. If the young ladies give me the release, I will certainly post them.

Yard Work!

2010-05-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

Well...finally done for the weekend. Tough, hard work. I'm scratched, bruised, cut up and tired. Can't tell you how many times I've been to the store for parts, lumber, soil and who knows what, I can't remember. Had a hard winter this year. Took a lot of bushes and flowers. Lots of empty spaces to fill. My wife, Diane, has always wanted a modified English garden and I'm trying my best. Being the moody person I am, I haven't been as diligent as I should have been lately. Paid for it this weekend. The garden is almost finished. A couple more boxes and the vegetables will finish it. Have to wait for the next paycheck to do that. But here is what I have so far. Could be better, but here goes. First I will show you the yard and then the garden area. Here is the yard.

This is the garden area. I have raised two of the boxes and added a third. I intend on adding another one under the tangerine tree and one for Diane's herbs under the kitchen window. Still a lot of work, but I'm on my way. Boy do I need to get out and take some pictures.

This box has lemon cucumbers and will have some squash and a few other things. Diane is still deciding.

This box has spaghetti squash and sugar peas so far. I think Diane will add something else.

Looking down the side of the house you can see all the boxes. I will build another box under the tangerine tree for carrots and radishes. I moved four yards of Topsoil/Compost this weekend to fill the boxes.

Well, that's it. This box has a Cherry tomatoes and a Roma tomatoes, and two Heirloom Brandy tomatoes. Still plenty of room for some peppers of different types and who knows what else. I'm sure I will find out soon. I hope you enjoyed seeing all of this. I just had to share. Later!

"A Single Red Rose"

2010-05-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my Mom. Perhaps later than sooner, but she's been on my mind. God Bless Her. She'll always be here with us.

"A Single Red Rose"

Still More April Surprises!

2010-05-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I have anything more to say. April was a great month and I think this is all of them. I hope! Haven't had a chance to do anything in May. OH KNOW! I better plan a ride in the next couple of weeks.

Here is an image I took in Dry Town. On the Golden Chain. It is also one I worked up in a few different ways. I think they all have qualities.

"Moving Day"

"Moving Day" B&W

"Moving Day" Vintage

On the way to Oregon, up HWY 5, you can't miss this mountain. It's magic!

"Mt Shasta I"

"Mt Shasta II"

"Port-O-Call"

In the town of Bandon, Oregon, in Old Town is this bait shot and cafe that was totally awesome. I couldn't resist.

"Abandoned Farm"

"Enlightened Tree"

"Wild Chamomile"

Well...we're finally getting down to some slim pickings. And, you're probably getting tired of seeing all these pictures. So, I think that will be all until May's can be posted. I just wanted to share one more with you. This is probably my favorite falls to date. I know I will see many more, but for now, this is the best picture I have of it. I'd like to share it with you. Enjoy

Latourell Falls II"

Even more April surprises! A Potpourri!

2010-05-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share a few more from April. Like I said, it was a great month. Don't get bored, there still may be more.

"Morning Fog"

"Emergency Exit"

"Welcome"

"Oregon City Covered Bridge"

"Grave Creek Covered Bridge"

"Mustard Field"

"The Ole Barn"

"A Ride In The Gorge"

"Horsetail Falls"

"Latourell Falls"

"Latourell Falls Creek"

"Trillium Falls"

"Coquilloe River Lighthouse"

"Stone Lagoon Schoolhouse"

"Bandon Beach III"

"A Place To Rest"

Whew...Still a few more, but will wait till later. Enjoy!

More April Surprises

2010-05-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well...where do I go from here. Maybe some wildlife? Sounds good. Lets see what I have.

Wait! He's not wild. This is Skipper. He's a scardy cat, or kitten.

"Flirting Turkeys"

"California Newt"

"Western Meadowlark"

"Pacuvius Duskywing Butterfly"

"Spring Azure Butterfly"

Really not much in the way of wildlife, but it's something! Enjoy!

April Surprises (con't) Flowers

2010-05-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share some of the flowers I've photographed during April. Some OK some awesome! you've already seen the "White Glove Lily" but I will post it again in case you didn't see it the first time.

"White Globe Lily"

The rest of them were taken on the road to and from Oregon. Some from my back yard and some in the California redwoods. Sort of a potpourri.

"Holly Grape"

I took this photo in April and they are the grapes from the yellow flowers I took in January. It was fascinating to watch the transformation. These are just now getting totally ripe. The dark blue color. I think this image is more interesting. I didn't take a photograph when they were all ripe. I still might. We'll see. Here is a re-post of the plant in bloom.

"Blooming Holly Grape"

OK...here are some of the others I photographed Enjoy!

"Wild Raspberry"

"Pink Flowering Dogwood"

"Ground Iris"

"Periwinkle"

"California Poppy"

"Bitterroot"

"Table Mountain Wildflowers"

"Mexican Gold Poppy"

"Miniature Lupine"

"Cala Lily 2010 II"

"Four Petal Unknown"

(Haven't figured it out)

"Redwood Violet"

"Western Trillium"

Well, that's all for now. More images to come. Hope you enjoyed!

April Surprises (con't)...again!

2010-05-02T16:40:00.000-07:00

MT. HOOD!

One of our excursions took us around Mt. Hood. Early in the morning, the sun gave it an interesting glitter. I loved the shots I got of the mountain. What was really nice was it was a clear morning. Usually Mt. Hood is covered with fog or clouds etc. Another great moment was the traffic was almost none existent. Of course, early Sunday mornings, I have found to be the best photography times. Why...everyone is in church praying. For me I hope, I need all the prayers I can get. I hope you all enjoy the pictures. More to come. I hope you are all looking forward to them. Enjoy!

"Mt. Hood I"

"Mt. Hood II"

"Mt. Hood III"

April Surprises (con't)

2010-05-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

I didn't think I'd have time today to post. Off to a BBQ with family this afternoon. Can't wait to see my nephew. Just got back from Iraq. Anyways, here are a few more to enjoy.

"Table Top Mountain"

This is a pond on Table Mountain out of Oroville, CA. Beautiful day trip!

"Oregon Farmland"

This was taken on the road in Oregon traveling around Mt. Hood. Images of Hood coming.

"Bandon Beach II"

This was taken in Bandon, OR. Beautiful stay one evening. This was taken around 9:00 AM. The next image was taken on the other side of the hill we were standing on.

"Bandon Beach I"

That's all I have time for today. Will post more tomorrow. Enjoy!

April's Surprises

2010-04-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

WOW! Where do I begin? April turned out to be a great month for photography. I've been told by many, that I should take the photos that I have and start selling them. Another words, start making a profit in my business. I have to agree, but I love the picture taking end of it. And, this month is a good reason why. Diane and I had a wonderful time in Oregon last weekend, and I photographed many of those wonderful moments to share. I don't know if I should post them all, or a few at a time. We also took a couple of other short trips this month and there are lots of images to share. Soooooooo...I guess I will share a few at a time. And, I think I will mix them up. So sit back and enjoy!

Lets start with one of the last pictures I took this month. Diane an I really enjoy this waterfall and this visit I was able to get the whole image. Of course, I had a wide angle lens this time. This is Multnomah Falls in the Colombian River Gorge area of Oregon, and it was a wonderful site.

"Multnomah Falls"

The next image was taken in the Hidden Falls area, just east of Auburn, CA. This tiny little flower is beautiful and most likely overlook when walking in the foothills of California.

"White Globe Lily"

I guess I should show you the falls. I really didn't like the results, but the falls were beautiful. I will make the hike again and see if I can get a better picture.

"Hidden Falls"

This next image was taken on a short drive to the Consumnes Wildlife Area. It was slow day, but had some wonderful flowering areas.

"Wild Garden"

There are so many more and I will post them through the month of May. Enjoy!

California State Capital

2010-04-10T23:33:00.001-07:00

OK...for those who want to see the original and two different processing, this is what I can offer without showing first hand. The first picture is the original and the other two are worked with Photoshop and Nik software.

"Original Image"

The next image is the first image processed in Photoshop, and Nik add-ons. I used Viveza 2 to bring out the sky and the trees. I used the Darken/Lighten Center for the Vignette, and some Glamour Glow to soften the sky. I brought out the highlights in the trees with the Photoshop Dodge tool. Then I lightened the building with the dodge tool on highlights.

"California State Capital I"

The third picture was a HDR image taking three exposures and combining them with Photomatix Pro. This gives me all the detail I could possibly need. I then used the processing of the second image to finalize the third image and I got more of the overcast of the sky. That's about it. I will have to show you the process to understand all of it.

"California State Capital II"

My Grandgirls Easter 2010

2010-04-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

"Keira"

LtoR

"Madison, Keira, Mariah"

"Oceans Roar"

2010-03-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you have to re-visit images when your up in the air about things. A lot on my mind lately, and no solutions. So I go back to the ocean. Something I love and enjoy with my wife. A place where I can think and feel better. Does anyone feel like that sometimes? Tonight I re-visit the ocean to remember, search, discover and satisfy. This is the image that I saw. Slightly enhanced, but what I feel. I love it, and hope you do too. Enjoy!

"Oceans Roar"

SPRING!!!!! March madness and not just basketball!

2010-03-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of my March pictures to share. I love the color of spring. I can't wait to get out and photograph more color as spring, springs into action, in the hills, on the plains, in the cities and all around. I love this stuff, don't you? I think it's time to reflect on something we maybe haven't thought of. In my case, I realized a person I met at the end of last year was a fantastic person and didn't really realize it until this week. I just want to thank her, she added a little light to my life, especially during these economical times. So thank you Ellen. You inspired my latest image, "Sun Rays." I hope you all enjoy what I have so far this month. And...HAPPY SPRING everyone! Enjoy!

"Sun Rays"

"Quince"

"Sutter Grasslands"

"Touch Of Spring"

"Oak Land In Bloom"

"Winters Spring I"

"Winters Spring II"

"Ocean View Cabin"

2010-03-16T00:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just can't leave well enough alone. I really like this image, but I wasn't sure I was drawn to the subject. The subject being the shack. Also, I thought your eye moved too much throughout the scene. So I came up with this. I like it better and I hope all of you do too. I closed the image in trying to keep the attention toward the middle third. I think I have accomplished this. Enjoy!

"Ocean View Cabin II"

I also think it has somewhat of a fantasy quality to it. Like, WOW, could you imagine living in this way back when. No traffic or noise. Just you and the crashing of the waves. Awesome!

More Black and White-Valentines Day Ocean Series in Black and White

2010-02-26T12:29:00.000-08:00

I have been enjoying my black and white images from our coastal trip to Bodega Bay on Valentines Day, and I thought I'd share them with you. I guess it's ending up as a series in B&W. A couple of them you've may have seen, but I thought I'd post all of them so far in the series. It was such a wonderful day and the ocean was talking to us in a moody way, so I had to get as much mood and motion I could in images. Black and white has done this. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I have been.

"Stormy Weather I"

"Stormy Weather II"

"Stormy Weather III"

"Stormy Weather IV"

"Bodega Head"

"Fun On The Beach"

"Friends Together Forever"

Drama and Motion

2010-02-23T17:55:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a black and white photograph can show more emotion, drama, and motion than the original picture. I have recently found that the old days of chemical darkroom and black and white film is still effective with the right image. For instance, this image is much more dramatic with the use of black and white than it was in it's original form. BUT! This is done with Photoshop and NIK software in a digital darkroom. I love it even more. I used Photoshop to create layers and the rest was done with NIK software. Silver Efex Pro, Viveza 2, and Color Efects Pro. Yes, color effects. That's where the filters are. So let me know what you think. I will be doing more black and white in the future. Enjoy!

"Stormy Weather" Original Image

"Stormy Weather"

"Stormy Weather" Color Enhanced

San Francisco Area and North West Maverick Waves

2010-02-20T15:39:00.000-08:00

WOW! Diane and I had a wonderful weekend and one of our stops was in the San Francisco area and further north. Bodega Bay and area to be exact. It was a beautiful weekend and the surf was totally awesome. Here are a few of the shots I took. I love sharing Diane's and my moments. Perhaps that's why our time together are memorable times. And the pictures are beautiful memories. Enjoy!

"A Moment In San Francisco Bay"

"A Moment In San Francisco Bay In B&W"

"Steam Boat"

"Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point"

"Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point 2"

"Friends Together Forever"

"Maverick Waves I"

"Maverick Waves II"

"Maverick Waves III"

"Maverick Rainbow"

"North Bodega Moment"

"Bodega Head"

"Oceanside View"

San Francisco Zoo and Wildlife in the Neighborhood

2010-02-20T15:11:00.000-08:00

Diane and I had a chance to visit the San Francisco Zoo, finally...we had time together, yes at the zoo. It has really improved since our last visit, when the kids were young. I can never get enough of the zoo and the animals. When we were first married we used to visit the San Diego Zoo and Wild animal park all the time. I was discouraged when we first visited the San Francisco Zoo, after moving to Sacramento, but was really impressed this time. The place has really opened up and the animals have a lot of room to move around in. Their really making an effort. I loved it! Here are a few images I thought were worthy of showing. I hope you enjoy them.

"Who's Dare"

"The Gorilla In Charge"

"Bad Nail Day"

"Mandrill, What Kind Of A Name Is That"

"The Old Fella"

"Rino Euphoria"

"Never Thought I'd Miss The Snow"

"Ms Valentine"

"Surprise"

"Peek-A-Boo"

"Flamingo Kiss"

"Red-Tailed Hawk"

"Brant And Bufflehead"

"California Or Brown Towhee"

"The Gathering"

Floral

2010-02-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

This is the time of the year that the little flowers, buttercups and such, start blooming and showing signs of spring. Many of photographers, such as myself look forward to getting that camera out and photograph the flowers and then see what they can do to make them unique. Well, at least I do! So here is a little start on the season and some of the different ways I see them. Some of them good, and some not. I hope you like them. Enjoy!

"Pom Poms"

"Flower Flies"

"Dandelion Delight Or Dandelion Wine"

"Snail, Seeds and Debris"

"Entangled"

"Flaming Entanglement"

"Floral Abstract"

"Flower Bud"

"Barrel Of Color"

More of Sacramento Zoo

2010-02-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

I felt I needed to post something. I haven't had the time to do much photography lately so thought I'd post a few more shots taken from the Sacramento Zoo day trip. I was inspired to re-do some of the other post since I watched Laurie Shupp's webiner. I missed her new one on Thursday, but found one from July of 2009. She's a wonderful photographer and I can't wait to see what she will do next. Anyways, here are a few more and a couple of repeats. Enjoy!

Flamingo

Hooded Merganser

Siberian Tigar

Nuttall's Woodpecker (Wild Thing)

Young Giraffe

Bongos

Hooded Merganser

Tigers Paw

Sacramento Zoo

2010-01-23T19:52:00.000-08:00

My visit to the zoo today was an exciting one. I have always loved the zoo. Diane and I had a membership to the San Diego Zoo years ago when we lived in Southern California. San Fernando Valley to be exact. We made a point to go at least every month. I loved it than and still do. Even though the Sacramento Zoo cannot compare to the San Diego Zoo, It was a nice visit. We will have to visit it more often. The containers are not what I call the best, most are still cages. The enclosures that are better for the animals are still behind cage type enclosures, but some have Plexiglas. Stained with algae and with a green tint, it still made it difficult to photograph through them. I guess it all comes down to the support the zoo gets. Like I said, it's much better than it was back in 1975 when we first moved in the area. I have a few images I'd like to share, and maybe I will add more as I look at them. If I can dedicate today's photography shoot to someone, I like it to be for a good friend who is ill and fighting for survival These are for you Sharon. We will have to do more shoots together again when your well. Enjoy everyone!

More Black and White

2010-01-22T10:36:00.000-08:00

Here are a few more images that I found interesting in black and white. Maybe even better than in color. Now if I could only learn to merge them together. Hmmmmmmm! Oh! I've done that! Will have to work on it some more. I love black and white! Enjoy!

"California State Capital Building"

"California State Capital Building"

"Capital Park Bench"

"Delta King"

"Delta King Sitting Area"

"Delta King Rooms"

"Paddle Wheel"

Black and White!

2010-01-21T22:34:00.000-08:00

I have always had a love for black and white photography. And, for some reason with digital I seem to have forgotten about it. I realize that it's still there and even better today. At least in my opinion. But I haven't really worked with it that much in recent years. WHY? When I see it online, or at an art/photography show, black and white photography always seem to draw me in. I stop and really look at it. Why haven't I been doing this? So, I have decided to make a black and white image of everything I do. Check it out and decide whether I like the results or not. But even that is sometimes hard to remember. I have a short memory. Maybe no memory at all. Anyways, here is one that I really like and I think the detail and effect is better than the original color. Although, the color one is awesome, if I say so myself. Too bad it is a heavily photographed bridge, especially here in the Sacramento area. Well, I'll let you be the judge. What do you all think? Enjoy!

Original

Black and White
Really! Yes

Delta King

2010-01-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I dropped my wife off in Old Sacramento for the 2010 IAASP (International Association for the Advancement of Steam Power) convention. I took the opportunity to photograph around the state capital building. It was a foggy morning and I thought it an interesting time to photograph it. I was also asked to photograph the Delta King, a steam paddle boat now used as a restaurant, hotel and lounge in Old Sacramento and chosen for the convention this year. They may use the photos on their web site. It was the the first time in a while I've taken to do some photography. I needed a photo fix really bad. So here are some of pictures I took. I hope you enjoy them!

California State Capital

2010-01-17T21:43:00.000-08:00

"Cathedral Of The Blessed Sacrament"

"Hibiscus Flamenco Dance"

2010-01-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Blast from the past. Took this in 2002 with a three megapixel camera. WOW! Talk about old digital days. This was a Fujifilm Finepix S602 Zoom camera. It was my second digital camera. My first was a Nikon Coolpix 990. Also a 3 megapixel. Loved them both in their time. Anyways, thought I share. Enjoy!

"Hibiscus Flamenco Dance"

ANOTHER ONE!

2010-01-14T20:45:00.000-08:00

This is another image I fiddled with last night. Have you ever had those nights you just didn't want to go to bed. I finally did, but not until I played around with this one. This is another one of my fall pictures from 2009. I don't know...what do you think? Back to the drawing board? Should sleep tonight. Went to the gym for the first time in years. Boy am I out of shape. With the diet and exercise, I may be able to lick this diabetes thing. OK, maybe I'll be in touch. :o) Enjoy!

"Sierra Color"

I NEED A PHOTO FIX!

2010-01-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

Picture this...My head in my hands, supported by my elbows, planted on my computer desk and my head shaking back and forth wondering...when will I get out again and take pictures. I have been so busy with end of year, both at home and at work, that I haven't had time to do really anything with my photography. So what do you do? Frustrated, you go through your old pictures and learn new things. This is an image I took back in May of 2009. It is a re-post and looking at it again I realized I took a bracked shot of it. I sat straight up in my chair and said...HDR! OK. So I started working on it and before I knew it, VOILA, this is what I came up with. I took the HDR and used some of my techniques, applied some NIK filters and fell in love. Gosh, I love what I do. OK, back to the year end, cleaning my office and getting back to projects I need to finish up. Enjoy!

"Foothill Vineyard"

"Entangled Abstract"

2010-01-11T21:47:00.000-08:00

Can you comprehend a thought, that as an artist we create photographs or graphic art in images that manifests how we feel. I do. I know that sometimes I can get way out there. Sometimes by getting way out there, I can create images that are fascinating and other times I think...where was I. Or, where am I. I'm not sure where I am with this one. I'm being tossed around with where I want to go, what direction I want to get too. And this is what I have created. It's a combination of two images, one converted into a sketch and blended. My wife, Diane, says she doesn't know what it means. I don't know what it means. Maybe, I'm just remembering a picture I saw as a child on my grandmother's bathroom wall. Whatever it is, I hope you can read something into it. Enjoy!

"Entangled Abstract"

"Past Days, Or Life Today"

2010-01-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

In today's economy, we forget about those struggling to make ends meet. We all, are feeling the hard times. Some have lost homes, and some more than that. Pressures split up families, cause depression, or just make people give up. Believe me, I'm for getting ahead, making a good living and prospering. If I find my break, I'm taking it! Even those with money will tell you of their struggles to get where they are. Maybe they've lost everything a couple of times before they got where they are today. I guess what I'm trying to say is, we can't forget those who work very hard and really never make it. That's what came to mind when I saw this picture. This is a living neighborhood. This is today for some. Happy New Year and I hope we all prosper.

.

"Past Days, Or Life Today"

What Is This?

2010-01-06T15:51:00.000-08:00

I was eating lunch the other day and was staring into a bunch of bushes in front of me. You know how you look at something and don't really see it. As a photographer I try not to do that. But sometimes it's hard not too. Especially, when there is a lot on you mind. Well, here was this bush about 4-6 feet tall with these yellow tentacles blooming and I became fascinated in them. It's winter right...nothing is in bloom this time of the year. Anyways, always having a camera with me...yeah right, at least I try too, I pulled out my Canon D9 and took this picture. When I got home, I tried to find out what it was. NOTHING! So what is it? Is it a fern. I don't think so. Looking at the leaves I thought it might be a holly of some kind. Again NOTHING! Again, what is this? Does anyone know. Fascinating flowers. Love the color. Oh well. Enjoy!

"Yellow Tentacles"

UPDATE! 1/07/2010

OK! I think I've got it! After serious internet investigating, I have decided this strange plant is a California Holly Grape. Yep! I believe so. If you can find something different please let me know