Status Update

Continuing to work on writing and selecting images for missing days. Had a great experience with today's image at a local scrap metal yard. Super nice people let me wander around and fill up my memory card. Thanks for allowing me in for a look around. More to come.

Project 365 d-177

     Another busy day today, but thankfully this onion lover was not quick enough to evade me and my camera as he inspected my garden. My father was at my home today working on a project like he nearly always is. He is a big help and I would be lost without him. His health has greatly improved since all of the drama from this Spring, and I am relieved to see him doing so well. One of the nice things about living in the country is having a garden. Plus, my Father really loves salads and it is almost worth having just because of this. I had not planted any onions yet as I had just been too busy. I told him that if he saw any when he was out and about to buy some and we could plant them. So, he did exactly that and showed up with two big big bags full of onion sets, and about two weeks ago he planted them. Now he just had to wait for the green stems to poke up through the soil toward the sky. He checked them everyday for signs of life and today was the payoff.

     They grew quickly and I could tell he was getting anxious to harvest them. Today as he was preparing to leave; I suggested we go check to see if they were ready to pull up. My camera was hanging around my neck as we walked over to the garden. As he bent down to inspect the tall green onions; I began shooting some frames. I continued to photograph after he wrestled a few free from their dirt prisons. He held them in his rough and calloused fingers for a closer inspection. He seemed to be unaware that I was capturing what was happening with my camera, and kept his attention on his salad building materials. "They look good",  I said. My father looked up at me and smiled. "Yes, they are the perfect size", he said excitedly. It was one of the shortest photo shoots of this project, but it was one of the most special. Seeing my Father's joy over a handful of green onions filled my heart with joy and this was my big payoff.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-176

     Really one of those days that I just wanted to spit. Really spit. I was pressed for time all day and was not feeling that well to boot. It didn't help that I had to work a night shift, and I was not looking forward to trying to do a night shoot. When my shift ended; I was quite sure the only thing I would feel like doing was going home to bed. When I took my lunch break, I stepped outside the store with my camera hoping to spare myself from a photo shoot after dark. It was late in the day and the shadows started to lean in the fading light. I wandered around the parking lot looking for anything that might serve as a daily image. If I didn't find anything; I knew I could still go out after work too. There was this trash can sitting next to a column with a high contrast shadow next to it. "What the heck", I thought to myself, and took a few frames of it. Actually, I was OK with the way it turned out. It made a decent black and white image that was interesting enough. Plus it saved me from being out late after work, so I could work on my beauty sleep. Not one of my favorites, but still a worthy addition to Project 365.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-175

     Most of the day today I spent burning dead tree limbs that had fallen into my ravine.  It was a good day for this type of clean up as I mold my property into a photographic paradise. Lately, I have been spending as much time in my yard as possible. It has been such a wet summer and I have much to do to get my property ready for opening my portrait studio next Spring. I started a fire in my fire pit as the wood was piling up quickly. Even during the Summer; I enjoy a good camp fire, and my backyard feels like a campsite anyway. Thankfully it is not full of campers and I get it all to myself to enjoy.

     There was so much old timber to burn that as evening approached the flames were still working on their meal. Fire is really cool to photograph as well, and tonight I sat happily there on a stump with my camera watching the flames do their dance. Each time I clicked the shutter; I wondered if that frame would be the one. I continued to offer wood to the hungry flames in hopes that it would honor my desire for a photograph showing me the personality of the fire.  It had been almost an hour since I sat down to photograph, and I had taken many shots. With the hour getting late; I headed to my studio to see what I had. After loading the images and making contact sheets; I began to view them in hopes of finding the perfect one. Then my eyes stumbled on this one and it seemed that my wish had come true. Staring at it I swear that there was a fiery creature staring back at me. A razor toothed, steely eyed, monster sprinting through the frame. I laughed out loud with delight as I continued to admire my little creature born of the flame. I had hoped to see the personality of the fire and it had delivered just that. I will have to revisit the fire again before Project 365 as I suspect this little ambassador has friends to introduce me to.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-174

     What a bitter sweet day I experienced today. My wife and I went to her Doctor to have an ultrasound to check on the baby's health. Once again, it was storming and drenching everything in a soggy mess. The Doctors visit went smooth and the baby was doing really well, so our mood was light as we left the office. We stood under two black umbrellas as the rain poured down in the morning gloom. From anothers perspective, we may have looked like spies meeting in an unlikely place to trade secrets. We were just exited parents for the third time albeit a little scared at the thought of starting all over with diapers and bottles again. With a goodbye kiss we entered separate vehicles and headed out into our days. I just kept thinking about that unknown, un-met little life all safe inside of her mother. It was like a birthday present you cannot open till long after your birthday is past. For as long as I could, I watched my wife in the car ahead until she turned in another direction and faded from sight.

     As I headed back toward home my mind was full of chatter from many different thoughts all trying to be heard at once. Worries, hopes, prayers, and fears all stuck in a crowded elevator unable to figure out what floor each should be on. As my eyes scanned the horizon as they always do; I noticed that extremely scary, storm clouds were gathering for a potential strike. It would seem that a heavy rain would start at any moment, but nothing more than little dots on my windshield was all that accumulated. Maybe it was saving up it's ammo for later.  I would find out that afternoon that my premintion was correct, and I nearly lost all of my Project 365 files.

     Nearing my home, I noticed a train sitting on the track with lots of graffiti on it. The rain has stopped and the skies had cleared enough for some decent light to photograph. I pulled over, grabbed my camera and walked toward the train. Photographing graffiti is something that I enjoy, and today was no exception. It can be overwhelming trying to find the right angle when looking at such a broad subject. The key is taking your time and being willing to experiment in order to get the best composition. Sometimes you find frames within a bigger picture, and some times you go with the obvious big picture. Confident that I had a little of both; I packed up and headed home.

     By the time I got home the sky was starting to look threatening again, and it wasn't long till the trees began to sway as strong winds began to blow. I was standing outside recording HD video of the crazy cloud formations above when the storm let loose. My father and my daughters were inside of the house and I met my dad peeking out the door at all the activity just as I was rushing to the front door. "Get in the basement!", I screamed as loud as I could.  They all scrambled down the steps toward safety while I stood just outside the door not wanting to miss anything good. The wind howled as lightning cracked over grumbling thunder. The rain fell like a huge waterfall causing the gutters to spill over and water gathered in a large pool around my driveway. For about twenty minutes the storm raged on. The lights flickered many times and then the power went out just as my wife was coming home

Project 365 d-173

     It was really overcast today with some rain and gloom hanging in the air. It was not possible for me to leave to photograph as I was watching my children. So, as I often do; I try and use what's available to me around my home. Planted some time ago are many flower beds with a lot of Black Eyed Susan. They are a spunky, daisy like flower with a black eye in the center that is ringed by yellow petals. The lighting was just not right for a color photograph, so I decided to go black and white. There was a slight breeze that made the flowers rock gently back and forth. Leaning against a wooden railing, I set a longer exposure and began to photograph the gentle swaying motion of the flowers. My hope was to get a painterly look to them that would convert well to black and white. My time to photograph was cut short as the rain opened up upon me and chased me inside. To me, this image looks like a drawing in chalk on a black board that hasn't been completely erased. Just another day that proves again, I never quite know what will come my way for a photograph. Most of the time I'm glad it works this way because it keeps me hungry and in a hunting mode.

Happy Shooting.

Status Update

Just wanted to let you know that Project 365 has not ceased. It is alive and well. Life has just been coming at me hard lately, and I haven't had the time to write, or edit. It has been extremely challenging to say the least just to photograph everyday. As the halfway point draweth nigh; My goal is to be totally caught up with editing, posting as well as writing. So for whoever is watching this; thank you for following along, and please bear with me. More to come soon.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-172

     Storms moved in very quickly tonight as me and my family sat in the bleachers for another softball game. An innocent and friendly cloud filled sky began to turn ominous and dark. Deep growling thunder echoed across the changing sky like hunger pains in some wild animal. Soon wiry, white bolts of lightning could be seen just off to the North of the field and they decided to call the game. My camera was hanging around my neck as I watched the sky with interest hoping to witness some magic up above.

     The many spectators scrambled to gather their things, and their children before the storm opened up. Once I knew that family was safe in the car; I continued to watch this particular cloud pattern. It seemed to me that I was seeing some sort of life form sitting on a throne of clouds directing the coming event. With a long outstretched arm or staff it was seemingly in charge of the weather that was on it's way. While the rest of the sky was turning very dark this particular area stayed mostly blue with lighter clouds. It was an a amazing sight to behold and this photo pales in comparison to what my eyes had witnessed. Large rain drops began to smack the ground and bounce off my back, and I knew it was time to go. Looking up one last time just as I got to my car; I saw that the Storm God had been swallowed up by what he had wrought. Though I was disappointed that the game had been canceled; I was glad that I had been able to photograph this spectacle in the sky.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-171

     Covered from head to toe in dirt and sweat; I stood as straight as I could, and looked with a smile at what my hands had accomplished. My whole body ached starting with my toes and the pain rolled like Tsunami waves all the way up to the back of my neck. It hurt to blink, to breath, to think. Still, the landscape at the front of my home had been bent a little more toward submission. My will was being done though slowly and painfully. It has been so wet that many days have slipped by without even the turn of a shovel. Today was mostly sunny with the kind of clouds that make for great sunsets. It felt good to be in this kind of pain knowing that my sweat was traded for something worthwhile. Something that made me feel good to look at, and would bring joy to others as well.

     There was a new pain that I began feeling upon the realization that the day was almost gone and I had nothing to show for my project. The cupboard was bare, and I loathed the idea of having to go out tonight to photograph. My tired old bones wanted a shower and a soft bed knowing that sleep would immediately pounce on me once I was drowned among the soft sheets. The searing and gnawing feeling was in my stomach and the only way I knew to ease it was to get my camera. Funny how just holding it in my hands makes me feel better. That soft molded grip easily accommodates my hand and it becomes an extension of me. An extension of my soul, so that I may farm images with my eye.

     The sky behind me was exploding as I walked back from my studio toward the front of my home. It was ablaze behind the silhouetted trees determined to stay alive as long as it could, but accepting that its death was necessary to bring about this explosion of color. "Thank you God," I quietly said as I stood alone in my driveway. "Not only for sparing me from having to leave my home tonight to photograph, but mostly because even in the final moments of this given day you are still at work." For this is not all just some benign process set in motion by an aloof God. It is the work of an Artist that is never without his brush. A loving Creator who could just as well order our days and be done, but instead insists on working late in hopes that we will notice. "I noticed Lord." I whispered with a quivering lip. My senses tingled as I pointed my camera toward his sky and squeezed the shutter many times. I never heard him say "You're welcome." and I didn't need too. It was written across the sky.




Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-170

     Sitting there with all my family tonight at my daughters softball game with my camera in hand. Mostly because I wanted to photograph her, but also keenly aware that images sometimes jump out at you like pesky siblings hiding in a dark closet. Burn out was what I was really feeling as I sat there robotically cheering her and her team on. The half way point of Project 365 was getting close, and I wandered if it was just a good idea to stop then. Then I could lick my wounds and do something with the good images that didn't exist before this project. After all, six months of photographing everyday was a great accomplishment, but then I should have called it Project 182.5. Plus, what about all those people who were following along? What would they think? Maybe it shouldn't matter what anyone would think, all they had to do was visually follow along. All that I knew was that I was tired and wanted desperately to quit for fear that the pressure would rob me of the desire to photograph outside of this project. "Way to go girls!", I shouted from my stupor as the thought of what I dearly love being the very thing that could destroy the thing I love. I shuttered at the possibility as all of this was rolling around in my mind.

     Have you ever been driving down the road and suddenly realize you didn't remember the last mile or so? Like you suddenly snapped out of a deep trance, but knew that you were just mentally operating on two unique levels of conscience. This was how I felt when suddenly I saw the silhouetted participants cast in deep, dark shadows on the concession stand wall. They had been there more or less since then the game started and only changed with each batter. The condiments were sitting on the window ledge and helped unite these two worlds coming together. This alternate reality hiding right in front of me just waiting to be discovered. It was the kind of image that I was looking for. It was the kind of image I needed. Deep relief is what I was feeling as I knew that I didn't have to go hunting for an image. My mood was now light as I relished in meeting another day's deadline, and my soul was now full. It was time to fill something else too. A trip to the concession stand for a reward. Pushing back the thought that another day was only a few hours away; I sat back and enjoyed a hot dog. "Wraay ta gu gulls!", I mumbled. It was the best I could do with a mouth full of hot dog.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-169

     More storms roaring through today, and I had just enough time to photograph before the down poor started. Got out my HD Flip to take some video too, and it was just eerie and cool at the same time. These type of clouds just change so fast that I'm always a little frustrated that I cannot capture them quickly enough. One of these days, I hope to capture some lightning mixed in with these angry clouds too. Note to self: Don't stand barefoot in a big puddle of water while holding onto a tall metal tripod.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-168

     If only I could detach this huge metal door and hang it on my wall. Albeit, it would take strong nails to hold it, but it is just a fabulous piece of art. What's even more amazing is the place that it can be found. Unless you have heard me talk about it you will never guess what it is. Like many of the subjects I have captured for this project, this was one I had wanted to photograph for a while, but not had the opportunity. Today I got the chance to swing open this door, set up my tripod and fire away. What I really needed was a set of lights to photograph it properly, but that was not possible. There were many different images to be harvested from this hinged, and faded metal, but I had to settle for broader image. All of the randomness are like little stories just laying upon the cool and smooth surface. Time and use like an Artistic hand slowly shaping and pushing this piece toward completion. A hidden treasure tucked away only for sensitive eyes to discover if they happen by when its on display.

     It makes me want to paint and to draw again. To make marks on paper and push charcoal, and oil pastel across the page in an attempt at creating Art on an a lifeless sheet. This is the type of found object that makes me well up inside with passion for capturing and creating. It is scary to me to think of all the art that is out there languishing in some hidden place hoping to be discovered by an admiring eye. Though I am less pleased with the way that this image turned out; I am happy to have made an attempt at photographing it. Plus, it has allowed me to share it with you as well. My hope is that you will recognize the value that I see too. By the way, I think I will let the knowledge of what this image is remain a mystery. Who knows, maybe some day I will be able to afford to buy it and hang it on my studio wall. With a strong set of nails of course.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-167

     Today was a good example of what you will find if you go just a bit farther down the road. This was near a place where I often fuel up, and nearly every time I do; I find my neck straining to look down this long road. Today I gave into my impulse and turned right away from the path home. A big smile crossed my face as I got to the end of the road and beheld this really pretty scene. The sky was perfect set above the green grass on these gentle rolling hills. Needing an easy day of photographing; I photographed with ease at such a simple subject. My medium zoom lens would not allow it all to fit into one shot, so this is the marriage of two images into one. Nice and clean, bright, blue and green. Looking at this image now I have to remind myself that a sprawling city sat just out of the frame on three sides. Like happening on a doorway that suddenly leads you out into fresh air, amongst blooming flowers, cool grass and cheerful skies. Take time to look for these doorways around you and walk through them, or at least look through them as often as you can.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-166

     Went back to a familiar place late this afternoon to explore it more fully. At first I was alone, and I relished the sounds of nature as it sang quite unconcerned about me. Squadrons of buzzing Dragonfly raced to and fro with impressive maneuvers and perfect landings. Not sure what I was going to photograph; I just stood there with my camera ready trying to sense a mood. Off to my right, the bank was filled with fat, and poky thistle. Tall and lanky plants swaying in the slight breeze each adorned with a soft purple crown. Out in the distance, the muddy river slid by swiftly as the wooded banks looked on with out interest. The crystal blue sky was filled with cumulus white that tore apart like cotton as they were stretched across the heavens.

     A new sound broke across my ears awaking me from the trance I had fallen. Up roared a small, purple truck with loud music pouring through the open windows. Coming to a stop, out jumped a shirtless young man with sun glasses on. "So much for the peace and quiet.", I grumbled to myself. Not wanting to stare; I turned back around and pretended to be interested in a Dragonfly idling near the waters edge. Just as I turned back around for another peek; I saw the young man pull a large bow and arrow from the bed of his truck. Only there was a strong connected to the arrow and then back to a spool on the bow. "At least he is a bow-fisherman." I thought. I was relieved and thought, "He won't just be sitting there, but he'll go out in the water and away from me." We exchange pleasantries as he passed me and started to wade into the murky waters. It was then that I realized he may be providing some photographic opportunities, and suddenly I was so thankful that he was there.

     Silently out into the water he stole, crouched over like he was carrying a heavy burden. Each footstep quietly breaking the surface, but churning up the chocolate, earthen, river bottom. His direction suddenly changed back toward a now visible shape hovering in the shallows. Intuitively he placed the arrow against the guide as he approached his target. He stopped and the arch in his back disappeared as he stood erect. The once straight bow string was now being pulled back in order to launch his tethered missile. Just before he let his arrow fly; I realized I fallen asleep as this story unfolded, and I was not ready to photograph. As quick as I could, I changed my shutter speed and f-stop and began to peer through the viewfinder as he fired. The surface of the water explodes as the arrow appeared to hit its mark. The arrow stuck up at an angle and moved around like it was being stirred my an invisible hand. My shutter continued to click as the fish pulled ans struggled to be free of this strange dart embedded it its flesh. Just when I thought the fish was going to jump up out of the water for my prize shot, the arrow fell over flat. With a giant swirl of its tail, the fish quickly vanished toward deeper water.

     I'm not sure who was more upset, the young man for loosing his fish, or me for loosing my money shot. A yellow flash caught the corner of my eye as I watched the young man solemnly reel in his empty arrow. Looking back down the thistle covered shoreline; I spied the yellow visitor. He was perched atop of the thistle and was gorging himself on seeds unaware that I was watching him through my long glass. Forgetting the sorrows of the empty handed fisherman; I began to creep closer to the Finch as it feasted. The wet and sloppy shoreline slurped in each of my steps, and I had to use my tripod legs as a crutch to keep me from sliding into the water. Thankfully, the Finch was up higher, and my approach was screened my the thistle. Several times en route to a closer spot; I stopped to take some frames for fear that he would take to flight before I got to the desired distance. It was a challenge trying to photograph on a slippery hillside, and I stomped each step into the cool sucking mud to shore up my stance. About the third time I stopped to photograph, my height must have broken above the thistle, I could tell the Gold Finch now say me. His demeanor changed and he crouched ever so slightly in preparation for his escape. Just as I brought my glass to bear on him once more, he jumped from his perch and was gone. It occurred to me that I was not only the one who had one get away while fishing. Still, unlike the bow-fisherman; I had a creel of about twelve images though each of us could shared the grief of a Prize that got away. Isn't that what fishing is all about though? The process is as important, or perhaps more important than the fish you hold with two hands to show your buddies or the flawless Giclee hanging on a cash buyers wall. Though I prefer to hold up prize fish and prize images; I never belittle the process for which I cast a line or cast a frame. After all, I suspect it is the process that I am in love with. Please don't tell my photographs this.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-165

     Beset my ominous clouds, I once again turned my attention, and my lens upward. It seems the rain, and gloom pursue relentlessly these days, and the Sun is too often hidden. My fascination with the sky grows with each frame I take, and today was no exception. The temperature had suddenly turned cool, and the rush of air pushed its way through causing the boughs to sway and dance in its wake. Part of the time I was photographing, and part of the time I was simply looking up at the great movie playing out on the silver and black sky.

     These kind of skies leave me a little sad as the fierce actors quickly play their part and then are gone. They leave me trying to remember what they looked like and what they had to say. Was there a message, or some instruction up there to be seen in any of the fleeting faces that often catch my eye. This quiet place I go as the dark skies roll by are filled with melancholy rooms. They house many memories, some rooms are painful, and I dare not linger long, but they are too instructive to discard. While others are good, but are not in need of the sun to bring a smile. Like secret eddies they churn below the surface desperately grasping at my ankles, hoping to pull me down. Down to where my thoughts, hopes and fears become my brothers and we embrace,  at the reuniting of our minds. Both are cherished for they are the building blocks of who I am. Forever joined together in this tower of flesh and bone, muscle, heart, mind and soul. Thank you God for the storms.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-164

     Just wandering around today hoping to make a new discovery. This was a transplant from our old home when we moved last year. It was late coming up this year and I attribute that to the soil having more clay in our new location. This yellow Coreopsis just recently started to get wonderful blooms on it, and I noticed it while heading toward one of my flower beds. It was overcast today and the normally yellow brilliance of the blooms was not a little flat. Crouching down for a closer shot; I decided that black and white would be good, and I'm happy with my choice.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-163

     The sun was threatening to drop below the tress surrounding my house today. My big landscape project at the front of my home had robbed me of most of my daylight, and I had yet to photograph. Tired, sore and very dirty; I slipped of my work gloves and leaned my shovel against the tree. To go driving around looking for something random was the last thing I wanted to do with the light failing. So I do what I have done many times before. Walk around and will myself to find something worthy of putting my lens on it. It was then that I remembered an old C02 tank that was left at our home. Earlier in the day, I had carried it up from the basement out near my up and coming studio. The valve knob was slightly bent over and it looked unsafe. Of course when dealing with something that is unsafe and could explode, what is the proper thing to do? That's right! You open the valve to make sure it won't explode. Keep in mind that I was standing as far away as I could while turning the knob. In case you are wondering, it didn't explode.

     Throughout the afternoon, it had been sitting there slowly releasing it's contents. That was most likely not wise either as ice had started to from form the condensation.  After retrieving my camera from the studio, I paid it a visit in hope of finding some photographic quality to spare my aching bones from a bigger search for a daily photo. Lifting it was quite easy now as its gas had all escaped. With just enough sun light still pouring in from over the trees; I carried it to a spot in my driveway for our session. There were labels on it that had become soaked and were just really a mess. They didn't strike me as something that I wanted to work with. Still, I was determined to extract something of value from this sweaty, and worn old tank. You have to be careful sometimes when photographing objects with words in them as the viewer is sure to read them. Perhaps not a big deal if that is your intent. It was not necessarily mine; however, I was not bothered either way. The narrowness of the tank presented a challenge of not being able to pull back too far due to the risk of the background creeping in. Something about this shot just appealed to me and even had I the time or inclination to move on to something else; I may not have done so. It seemed like the remains of an old Billboard not fully removed. In tilting my camera, I think it helps create a bit of mystery as to the meaning of those few words. Black and white helped solidify this feeling more than in color. This tank is now on its way to becoming something new courtesy of a metal scrap yard. Who knows where it will end up? Perhaps it will become building material, or a Navy ship. From the posture of my worn out shovel leaning against the tree; I know just what I hope it becomes.

Happy Shooting/Gardening.

Project 365 d-162

     What a great feeling it was to come home after a long day to my little slice of paradise. The grass is so green and lush, and it feels like millions of tiny massaging cushions when you walk bare foot. The pull on me to walk into my backyard was strong as I exited my vehicle and walked toward the house. Setting down the mail, and my camera gear; I walked slowly toward the back of my house for a look around. I never know what I will find visiting my sprawling, park-like backyard. That is one of the best things about living where I do. The unexpected things and creatures that seem to wander through make this photographer very happy.

     As I was headed toward the back part of the yard; I spied a slithering viper hurrying toward the ravine. Without thinking, I lunged forward to try and catch this wiggly little snake. Try as I might, he/she didn't want to be caught and the first few grabs produced only air. Just before it got beyond my reach; I grabbed one last time and just caught the edge of its tail. With all of its strength it coiled its muscles and shot up toward me for a bite. Thankfully, this snake was not that big, and I was easily able to avoid its strike. Hurriedly, I ran back to get my camera to see if I could document this moment. To say the least, it was quite a task to try and hold him/her up and photograph while is gyrated back and forth. My hope was to capture one with its tongue out, but it wasn't to be. Changing my grip from its tail to behind its head; I thought to myself, "What would the girls think of my little friend?". Walking toward the house; I knew I was about to find out.

     Into the house I went with my long and wiggly friend just out of site on my left side. At the breakfast bar sat my two little Angels eating snakes and watching TV. My Niece was also standing there too and by the size of her eyes; I could see that what I was carrying had registered with her. Bringing up my little friend so that it's tail rested lightly on my youngest daughter's shoulder. My Niece bit her tongue, and just stood there squirming in place. My daughters didn't even notice as their gaze was held fast by the power of Disney. Clearing my throat to get their attention, my youngest finally looked up and when her eyes found the dangling viper she let out a delightful shriek! This snapped my other daughter out of her trance and she followed up with her own screeching protest. All the while, my Niece still stood there with eyes the size of Oranges, but now with a wry smile crossing her tan face. No sooner than the screaming had stopped the oohing and awing started. You would have thought it was a Cat. My daughters took their turn putting out their timid hands for a quick feel of the snake.  Each time their hands darted back as deep, rolling giggles escaped from their smiling lips.

     Walking back outside to let my friend go; I held it so our eyes met. "Thank you for being such a wonderful subject for me today.", I hissed in the best snake I could muster. Out flicked the red and black tongue to taste my words and ponder their meaning. Waving its tail quickly back and forth was the only response I got. As I set it upon the soft green grass and stood back, it quickly stitched itself into the grass and then disappear into the landscape.

Project 365 d-161

     It rained really hard today. Giant pools filled my yard and small rapids formed as the water rushed toward the drain. Under the security of my dry front porch roof; I just watched it all happen like a movie. The sound of falling water filled my ears, and I never grow tired of listening to it. Time seems to slow, and its music springs up from below to grab hold of my worries, my cares,  and slowly drown them it its symphony. I felt my self feeling a little sad as the heavy downpour slowed to a trickle, and the pools drained. I watched it all like a kid watching a parade, determined to stay until the last float had passed me by.

     Rising from my chair; I headed stepped from the protection of the porch with my camera and umbrella to see what the rain had left behind. There was still enough water near the drain that it covered my feet, and I relished in the feeling of being barefoot in the Luke warm water. At some point, I looked up to make sure that the umbrella was covering my camera, so that I could start to photograph. It was then that I noticed the countless drops resting happily above me just waiting for me to notice. A smile grew wide over my face as I pointed the camera up and began to photograph. The drops looked beautiful against the vertical lines of the umbrella, and I just snapped away. It seems impossible to predict just when I will find myself in a moment where I sense what I'm supposed to photograph. It's times like these when all this makes sense and the critics inside my head are muzzled, even if it's only for one day.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-160

     Spied this ole red beauty on the way back from another softball game tonight. This barn had been on my list to photograph for over a year now, and tonight it came to fruition. As we cruised back into the city where it was located; I was thankful that the Sun was just about in the perfect position in the sky. Walking up a hill toward this proud structure; I began to try and do justice to what I was seeing. My wide angle might have worked better, but I didn't have it with me. The late day sun was really saturating the red, peeling paint, and the flaking white trim contrasted well against it. The roof was in need of some repair, but the dis-repair helped  add to the feeling of the photograph. As time allows, I plan to return to photograph this barn again. In different seasons, and at different times of the day to make sure it is well documented. Actually, while I was working toward my Art degree; I had designed the outside jacket of a barn photo book. That seems to be the first time where I felt I wanted to pursue making Fine Art Books. It has stuck with me and was part of the motivation behind my current endeavor. Lord knows I probably don't need another photo book project idea to worry about right now; however, there may be a barn book somewhere in me too.

Happy Shooting.   

Project 365 d-159

     It was a shame that I could not get any closer to this barn set in this stand of trees. It was something that I had seen the day before in trying to find which field my daughter was supposed to play at. There wasn't much room to pull of the road, but I did the best I could. It would have required me to walk way out into that field to get closer, and I wasn't willing to do that. My fear was that some of the crops would get stepped on and the land owner/farmer may not take kindly to that. Once again, stormy weather was rolling through our area and it looked like rain would be falling soon. You can see the sun's rays boring holes through the storm clouds, but they were just determined to keep out as much light as possible. What else can I do, but just move on to the next day, and the next image.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-158

     Went on a wild goose chase these evening trying to get my youngest to her softball game. On the way there; I spied many interesting things that would make great subject matter for today's photo. It was a road that I had not been down in a very long time, and I was excited at the thought of fresh photo opportunities. When my Father, my daughter and me pulled into the parking lot next to the diamond, we found it pull of boys. There weren't any girls to be found. "They must have made a mistake on the schedule." , I said out loud. My little athlete began to whimper and was getting anxious about being late. "I don't want to be the last one there Daddy!" , she protested. "We'll figure it out sweetheart, not to worry." , I reassured her. I began to make phone calls to try and determine what was going on. but was unable to reach anyone that could tell me for sure where her game really was. Not wanting to sit there much longer, we decided to go back the way we came and check the only other places we thought it might be.

     The sky began to look like angry and brooding as we drove. Just as we got to the next town; I saw this wonderful silo standing erect against the gray late afternoon sky. When we figured out where the game was I knew that I would be back to get up close and photograph it. With a quick stop at the next ball diamond, we discovered it wasn't there either, so back on the road we went. There was only one more place that it could be, and I hoped it would soon be settled as I needed to get to that silo before it was too late. Pulling into the last little town, I was relieved to see familiar uniforms moving around the on the field. As we came to a stop in the parking lot my daughter bolted from her seat toward her team-mates with her gear in tow. I explained to my Father that I needed to photograph for about a half hour. He said OK, and headed for the bleachers to watch the game.

     As fast as I could go, I willed myself to get back to that silo and photograph it with the moody sky above it. It was my turn to bolt from the vehicle and I did just that. It looked even more amazing up close and I immediately began to photograph it. It could just have well have been a remnant of a Medieval castle still standing after many battles. Though scarred, and broken it was still determined to stand against in spite all that had been thrown against it. This was a moment to cherish. It was quiet, and I could feel that secret place inside of my soul that gets its nourishment from art filling up. Just being there in front of the right subject at the right time is a priceless feeling. I took some courage and strength from this tower. After all, I was still standing too. A bit broken, with some scars, but still standing none the less. As for the many days of photographing left to complete my project; I will remember this silo, and I will continue to stand till the end.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-157

     Time was in short supply again today, but thankfully I can usually count on the sky and trees when I get into a jam. Not only do I seem to have a thing for the water; I am finding that the sky and trees are an important part of who I am as well. It's like two different canvases together with each day being a completely new painting of the sky while the changes in the trees are rendered more slowly. Each day God paints the sky with his delicate hand and today his passion for life can be found in the swirling, white clouds brushed against a crystal blue sky amidst the fading orange. All the while the trees strain to see his work as it changes moment by moment knowing that soon he will begin a new work in them too. I hope you take some time soon to empty your mind, open you heart and look with anticipation toward the sky. Look near the tops of the wooden sentinels to see what masterpieces may be found there. There is a great art gallery in the sky for all who care to look, and the more you look the more you will start to see.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-156

     My daughter had her school friend birthday party today, and the air was full ff the screeching, loud, and giddy- chatter of girls! My father was there too, but was wisely staying out near the vegetable garden. Meanwhile, I was busy filming the whole event on my HD Flip camera. Suddenly the chorus of silly noise seemed to flow in unison, and the change made me take note of the reason. All of they young ladies were pointing at my Father who had dared to enter the garage where the party was taking place. He stood there not knowing what they were all pointing at. Only when one of the young ladies blurted out, "You have a butterfly on you!". He half smiled as he looked the best he could over his shoulder to see for himself. Indeed there was a beautiful butterfly perched just below the top of his shoulder. They squealed with joy at the dis-believing look on his face. My Father slowly reached out an extended finger to see if it would crawl into his hand. Just as he dis this the butterfly lit, and landed on the wall above the entry door.

     It was time for me to get involved.Putting down the flip; I got my camera and long lens to try and turn this moment into a photo. Slowly, I walked up to the butterfly and stuck out my hand in hope to do what my Father had not. It accepted my hand and seemed to limp onto my finger. It was at that point I suspected that it might be sick or injured. Walking out the entry door; I carried the delicate creature to the closest flower bed, and transferred it to some waiting flowers. It just sat there fanning it's wings back and forth. One wing seemed to jitter out of sync with the other. Backing up then crouching down on my knees; I began to photograph. It felt like it was a scheduled appointment with a willing subject, and I squeezed off many frames from different angles. At any moment, I expected him/her to fly away and for the session to end. It only ended when my memory card read full. Whatever was wrong with it; I was sure there wasn't anything I could do about it. Maybe a little video would be nice too, so I headed in to get my flip. Upon returning to the flower hospital my friend was gone. I scanned the air hoping to see that it had indeed flown off and was going to be OK. It was nowhere to be found and the video was not to be. Maybe I will see him/her again before it turns cold, but God only knows. Still, I was thankful for the special experience that fluttered into my day, and onto my memory card.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-155

     The pull for me to drive just a bit out of my comfort zone was nearly overwhelming today. Over and over; I kept hearing, "Just head out on the road, and go a little farther than you have already gone!" What about all of the, "Be content where you are stuff?", I asked. This could be God telling me to go a little farther? Or, it could be my own selfish desire to explore what I suspect is on the other side of the fence. What ever the real reason; I grabbed my gear and headed out quite sure that something was out there.

     Very purposefully, I  went down as many unfamiliar roads as I could. My goal was to get lost, but stay close to home. Realistically,  this project would not be financially possible if I were to just drive anywhere and everywhere. Honestly, it is hard enough just going where I need to go as it is. Still, today I just felt a strong urging to go where I had never been before. A small voice that just encouraged me to go explore. When I feel this way it can be exciting as I know it usually results in good photo opportunities. This is what Project 365 is all about. Finding things that can be photographed to share with a visually starved world. It is for me too, for the faithfulness of being true to what God has gifted me with. In hopes of being a better steward as well as a better photographer and person.

     The dust rolled behind me in wakes as I drove cautiously down a narrow and dusty country road. My eyes were straining back and forth looking for something to catch my eye. That something to say, "Here I am, the thing that you were itching to come out and find!" Just at the bottom of a big hill; I saw what I had been looking for. This lonely sign being slowly digested by the landscape. It seemed so strange that nobody had cleared away the grass around it. It was a gift that they had not. The crystal blue sky, the fluffy white clouds, the tall green grass seemed so picturesque. How odd for this metal weed to be coexisting amongst these natural things. Yet there was a coexistence to it. In fact there was a harmony to it as they seemed to be at ease with one another. As I stood there in the hot sun, sweat rolled down the back of my neck, but I felt really alive. Not wanting to look away for fear that my return gaze would find that this was a dream. It seems that God was trying to show me that not only should I be content where I am, but be obedient in where he wants me to go. Today it was down a country road, and I'm thankful that I went a little farther.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-154

     Back near the wooded part of my property where the ravine meets the open yard; I found these wonderful little flowers. They were tucked back just into the tree line, and I only saw them because a sliver of afternoon sun was showering down upon them. The seem like wild flowers, but I cannot be sure. The are lovely to say the least, and I was glad to be in their presence with my camera. There have been more days of this project that have been taken up by flowers than I would have imagined. Part of this is due to lack of time, but there has still been a discovery to it as well. Maybe I am seeing things differently now and have a greater appreciation of the things God has planted to fill our hearts. Things that I had nothing to do with, but have noticed as they fill my vision with their beauty.


     At times, I have despaired that I am unable to venture very far in the hopes of filling the daily photographic quota. Still, it is days like this that make me think I am learning to be more aware to my surroundings. That doesn't mean that I would not enjoy venturing far and wide with unlimited amounts of time, but it feels so good to be accomplishing so much in a small area. I hope that extrapolates out to mean that venturing out into a wider area would make my portfolio scream. Perhaps this is where I am supposed to be. God put me in this place to notice the things in this area, and I shouldn't be worried about what I suppose it out there just beyond my reach. Maybe it is that way for all of us? We were put here for a reason that makes perfect sense to God, but somehow in our straining to see what's just down in the next valley; we fail to realize what we have. It is a good thing to be content. Yet I have much to learn about that yoke. Part of me still yearns for what I do not have in the hopes it will fulfill me. Real fulfillment comes from wanting what you have, not what you think you need. Only God knows what we truly need and today he gave me these purple flowers. Thank you God; It is enough for me.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-153

     What a really super day I had today. First, I didn't have to work and second; I got to join my youngest on a trip to the local Zoo with her school class. Plus, I knew that there would be photographic opportunities galore, and that was a good feeling to not have to worry about subject matter for the day. In the back of my mind, I was thinking about Giraffe's as there was supposed to be a new baby there. Although I had photographed at the Zoo before; I had been involved in a photo project, so this was more special.

     Riding on a big yellow school bus was something I had not done for a long time, and I know I must have looked silly all stuffed into that little seat. My daughter sat in the seat just across the aisle from me and she kept looking over at me and smiling. I'm sure it was a big thrill seeing her big ole Dad riding along for a day at the Zoo when many children were without their parents. When we pulled into the Zoo; I was not sure if I was more excited to get off the bus, or get into the Zoo. Maybe I looked like a Giraffe getting off that bus as I could feel the little ones staring at me. A smile crept over my face as I stepped down to the wonderful, roomy, concrete.

     We all gathered in line to await the green light to head in. Suddenly, I felt a tiny hand slip up inside mine as she pressed against me. A rush of pride and love washed over me as I squeezed her hand kissed her head. What a blessing to be at the Zoo with my little one and to be allowed in with such a big camera too. The printed out schedule said we were starting with the Giraffes first, and I was glad because the light was really good then. Off we went to go see the Fast Walking Camel Leopards. As we got close; I could see the little one standing out in the open, but as the cries of the excited children reached it's ears; It bucked like a horse and sort of galloped back inside. We met up with a guide that explained they currently had two young Giraffe's and this was the curious one. As we were standing there listening to her talk about how magnificent these animals were, this little one poked out it's head for a closer look. Not very far at first, then ever so gradually until it was out far enough to photograph. Thank God for my big zoom as I was able to get in close for a shot. Just as I started shooting, this little Giraffe started licking its lips, and made a perfect shot for a perfect day.

     Many more photos were taken that day, and many precious moments were shared between Father and Daughter. As we headed back to the school on the big, bumpy, yellow bus; I shared some of the photos with the other children. There wide eyed expressions made me smile as they viewed many of the Zoo's wild creatures up close. My daughter watched this with pride, and I noticed her enjoying every minute of it. I went to the Zoo that day hoping to spend some quality time with my daughter and get a good photograph. What I got was a full soul as well as memory card. What more can you ask for?

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-152

     Still finding nice discoveries in my yard as we did not live here this time last year. These Day Lillie's exploded up around our big White Birch tree in our front yard. I had no stopped to try and figure out what they were, but tonight they just took my breath away. How did I miss them blooming; I cannot tell you, but miss them I did. I went into my studio, grabbed my long lens and set about to capture them.

     Kneeling down, I began to photograph them at many different focal lengths and F-stops. The light was not that great and I should have used a tripod, but I didn't want to take the time. Taking deep breaths and releasing the shutter as I exhaled to ensure the image stabilization did not have to work extra hard. There were distracting things that I tried to avoid as best I could, and finally settled on this composition. The way the green blades were moving up diagonally to the left and placing the flower near the top looked good through my viewfinder. My main concern was being hand held without enough light. As it turns out, I must have done OK with my breathing as it is acceptably sharp, and the DOF is good too. Who knows what else I may be discovering in the days ahead around my yard and in my life. Good things I hope, photograph-able things to boot.

Happy Shooting.

Project 365 d-151

     Spent most of the day working outside in my yard. Trying with all my might to bend the landscape to my will. It seems like everything I accomplish by the light of day gets secretly done as I slumber each night. The weeds are never ending, and grow with ease while desirable things seem so temperamental. It's all in my head I'm sure and having land is worth all of the weeds life can ever dump on me or my lawn.

     All day as I worked, it was in the back of my mind that I hadn't photographed yet. This always bothers me, and I never feel secure until first image is written to the memory card. When this happens I catch myself saying, "Well at least I have one thing for the day." The sun was starting to sink lower in the sky, and I knew that unless I wanted to night photograph I would have to go hunting soon. Hurriedly I put away all my gardening tools, parked the tractor and cart, grabbed my gear and headed out. As I drove, I asked myself a familiar question, "Where are you going to go?"  I always answer the same way,  "I'll know when I get there."

      As I drove, I remembered an storage yard where construction equipment is kept. "That's where I'm going." I said relieved to myself. It was a place I had admired from the road many times before, but the light was never right, or I had already photographed for the day. Today all of the pieces were in place to pay this place a visit. Pulling into a little parking area; I grabbed my gear and headed around to the side to start my exploration. Rusting and decaying metal with peeling paint were everywhere, and I felt like a kid in a candy store. Simply, I couldn't decide what to photograph first. Places like this require multiple visits and adequate time to fully explore the depths of the potential art for harvesting. This was weighing on my mind as I scrambled around trying to get everything and getting nothing. Having a wealth of subject can be maddening if you don't have enough time to work with them. To say the least; I was nervous that I was going to blow it.

     There was this very long piece of rusting iron with a metal bar leaning against it that caught my eye. The blue sky above it created a really nice contrast between it and the orange rust. Plus, all in front of the metal were weeds. I had to laugh at the thought they had set up camp here too. It was nice not to have to pull them and they added something to the shot. Stepping back, I began to photograph in landscape in hope of creating something special. There was a solitary wispy, white cloud slowly floating by and I decided to let it be part of the composition. It worked and I am pleased with the results, and thankful to have earned another day's work. I'm quite sure that tomorrow will bring about the same question, "Where are you going to?", and remembering to have enough faith to reply, "I'll know when I get there."

Happy Shooting.