Those of you who have followed me for a while know that I am a big sucker when it comes to reflection shots. No matter where I am, my eyes start looking for water, whether it be a mountain lake or a city street. I’m not sure why that is, but it has rewarded me with some of my absolute favorite photos. On my trip to Italy last May, I was fortunate to visit Siena. I had never been there before, but it quickly became one of my favorite cities in Europe. No visit to Siena is complete without spending some (or a lot) of time in the Piazza del Campo. This public square is the centerpiece of Siena and is often referred to as its heart and soul. The Piazza is considered one of Europe's best examples of a medieval square for its beauty and architecture. When you first walk into the Piazza, the first thing you notice is the Tower of Mangia. Built in the 13th century, the Tower rises 335 feet above the square and is the the third tallest in all of Italy. Exploring the square one morning, we found a building close to the Tower. Going inside, we discovered that it had a small opening in the ceiling. The floor had just been washed and there were puddles everywhere. My first thought was it is reflection time and took many photos of the Tower’s reflection in them. This one was my best.
Jordon Pond Beauty - Acadia National Park, Maine
I have been taking a virtual trip into my archives searching for some hidden gems that might catch my eye. This photo taken at Jordon Pond in 2015 is one that I remember as if it was yesterday. I had convinced my best buddy Jeff Clow to host a photo trip to the Maine Coast, ending up in Acadia National Park. When scheduling such a trip in the Fall, the first thing one thinks about are the Fall colors. Being a New England resident for 27 years, I know that predicting when the height of the fall color will be is nearly impossible. Peak season can occur any time within a six week period in any given year. We were careful in advertising for the tour, never mentioning the fall color and touting the lighthouses, coastal towns and, of course, lobster. In hindsight, we had nothing to worry about. By pure luck, we hit the peak season.
One of our locations was Jordon Pond (not sure why it is called a pond as it as big as many lakes). We walked around the lake and I took this shot at the southern end of the pond showing the Bubbles across the way. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Acadia, the Bubbles (north and south) are the two mountains in the distance. As you can see, they do look a bit like bubbles. Both measure less than 1,000 feet high (872 and 766 respectively) but look considerably bigger. The brilliant colors of Autumn in New England show why it is a destination that attracts many from all over the world.
Dead Horse - Dead Horse Point State Park, Moab, Utah
The new reality these days is that travel is likely to be very limited at least for the rest of this year and maybe into the next year. This reality has had a bright spot for me and probably for many other photographers. I have over 100,000 photos in my archives and have not had the time to really spend time culling through them to find the best ones that I may have missed. This effort also allows me to remember each and every experience I had while taking them and the many friends that I shared these experiences with.
This photo from 2014 is one of these photos that I remember like it was yesterday. Of course, shooting one of the most iconic scenes in the American Southwest (at least in my opinion) is easy to remember. Eastern Utah is home to two wonderful National Parks (Arches & Canyonlands). Tucked in between the two is Dead Horse State Park which is often overlooked. The signature image of the park is this one, where the Colorado River has carved the rock over thousands of years to leave us with this spectacular view which rivals any in the area. The park itself was named after the mustangs that used to run wild in the area. The overlook from which this image was taken from, acted as a natural corral where cowboys would drive the herds so they could be captured for personal use or for sale to others. According to legend, a group of mustangs remained on the overlook and were somehow trapped there. As there was no food or water available, they supposedly died of thirst within sight of the Colorado River.
Dolomites Beauty - Borca di Cadore, Dolomites, Italy
After spending the previous ten days in Tuscany and Cinque Terre last year, we headed for the Italian Alps known as the Dolomites for a few days. The weather forecast was not promising as record cold, rain and snow was forecast. We actually had to visit an outdoor store to get some winter clothing. For once, the forecast was accurate but our first day there was beautiful. As we approached the small town of Borca di Cadore (population 809) we were lucky to see this magnificent view of Mount Antelao, which is the highest mountain in the Dolomites (aka King of the Dolomites), measuring a little over 10,000 feet. The mountain was initially hidden by low clouds that seemed to be playing a game of hide and seek with us. Being patient, we pulled over and decided to play a waiting game with it. Our patience was rewarded as the clouds began to clear and gave us this great look at the mountain.
Evening Stroll - Welgevonden Game Reserve, South Africa
Every time I look at my photos from my trip to South Africa last December, it reminds me of the talent and skills that the Rangers at Nedile Lodge possess. During our week-long stay at this top-rated Lodge, we were not only blessed with comfortable rooms and gourmet food, but also world class wildlife experiences. The evening that I captured this photo was just an example of our Ranger’s skills. As we were looking for signs of wildlife, we heard that the lioness had been spotted by some other Rangers. Being a distance away, we raced to get there and only one of our vehicles was able to participate. The Reserve allows only four vehicles to actively get close to any wildlife when sighted. Any other vehicles are put on a waiting list and can only join in when one leaves.
Fortunately, both of our vehicles were able to get shots of the lioness and her cubs. As we all were thrilled with the experience, our Rangers thought that we weren’t done, and they used their experiences to anticipate where the lioness was going next. Sure enough, she emerged from the brush and started strolling down the middle of the dirt road walking right toward us. A evening I won’t forget anytime soon.
Perspective - Manhattan, New York
During my working days in New York City, I passed through Grand Central Terminal as a hurried commuter trying to get home at a reasonable hour. There were no thoughts of stopping and taking photos, as there was usually a train to catch for my almost three-hour commute (thank God I didn't commute there every day). When I had the opportunity to spend a half day in 2012 to shoot the Terminal, I finally appreciated how wonderful the building is. I spent the majority of my allotted time shooting the inside of the building, and I discovered some amazing subjects that I failed to remember, like the ornate chandeliers hanging from the ceilings, the beautiful murals on the walls and ceilings and the stonework. Near the end of my time there that day, I decided to go outside to see what I might have missed during my commuting days. This perspective shows that the beauty of the building is not just indoors and I don’t think that I (or probably a lot of other commuters) ever looked up to take it in.
Wyoming Dreaming - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
When I first started visiting the Grand Tetons, the first photo that I wanted to capture was at Oxbow Bend. This is an iconic spot, where the Snake River meanders through the scene and Mount Moran and the other mountains are on full display. The best time to see and photograph it is at sunrise, when the sun rises from the east and lights up any clouds that are there. The sun will then gradually begin to light up Mt Moran with gorgeous soft light. It is a magnet for any photographers that are in the park.
I guess you are wondering where that scene is in the above photo. As I took photos of the classic shot that I have just described, I noticed that across the Snake River a very different scene was unfolding. The amazing clouds were present in both the sky as well as in the glass-like water. The landscape was lighting up and was beautiful in its own right. I learned a long time ago to makes sure that, after taking the iconic shots that most photographers shoot, to look around and work the scene. In this case, the rewards gave me a different view of Oxbow Bend.
Tuscany Beauty - San Quirico d'Orcia, Tuscany, Italy
Landscape photographers can control a lot of factors when planning a shoot, but one thing they can’t control is the weather. We had visited this beautiful landscape location known as the Villa (not pictured in this photo) a couple days before and were completely shut out. No rain, but rather colorless overcast skies. Not conducive to getting that great early morning light. We spent several hours hoping for the best and ended up shooting some flowers. I was hoping that we would return to the location but it wasn’t on the schedule. Fortunately, we somehow got it back on the schedule and headed back out a couple of days later. When we first got there, it looked like a total repeat of the previous visit. Overcast skies prevailed. We decided to wait it out and hope against hope that we would get some clearing. The landscape gods were smiling upon us and the sun began to light up this Tuscan gem of a location.
The Fight - Welgevonden Game Reserve, South Africa
No this was not a wrestling cage match between two warthogs but probably a fight for the favor of a female warthog. As the fight began, our Rangers indicated that it probably would be over in a matter of a few minutes. These two, however, had different ideas. This match took well over 10 minutes and covered a large area around our vehicles. A lot of the time, their horns were locked together with a lot of pushing each other forwards and backwards. Occasional, one of the warthogs would take a running start and leap in the air in anticipation of a massive head butt. I was fortunate to capture one of those attempted head butts mid-air. There was a winner in the fight, but no death or serious injury to the loser other than a loss of pride.
Smith Dorrian Trail - Spray Valley Provincial Park, Alberta
Last June, before our trip to Banff and Jasper National Parks, Jaki Good Miller and I decided to explore an area that we had never been to, namely Kananaskis County. This area south of Canmore is often referred to as little Banff and, based upon our visit, we totally agree. The trip from Canmore took us south and you can easily spend a full day as the road passes through Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park, Spray Valley Provincial Park, and Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. This section of the road is known as the Smith Dorrian Trail and, for almost its full length, has gorgeous views of the Canadian Rockies, forests and tree, lakes and wildlife. One of the really nice things about the area is the lack of tourists. Banff and Jasper have become quite the tourist attractions and can often be full of people during the daylight hours. Along our trip, we saw a few visitors here and there but most of the day we had the scenery to ourselves.
Mirror Reflection - Siena, Italy
Wandering around the streets of Siena without any particular destination in mind is a wonderful way to explore. Siena is known for its medieval architecture. The streets are narrower than one might expect and there are less cars that you might find in other Italian cities. For that reason, motorcycles and motorbikes are very common sights. When we strolled down one of the many side streets of the city, we were shooting the amazing architecture of the buildings and noticed this long row of motorcycles. I am not sure who first saw the reflections of the buildings in their rear view mirrors, but soon the five of us were trying to photograph their reflections. I think this one is my most successful and thought I would post it.
Mountainside Church - Chiesa di San Leonardo, Casamazzagno, Italy
Just about a year ago, almost to the day, I was standing in front of this church, Chiesa di San Leonardo, in the Dolomites. The Dolomites region had record cold weather last year and, as you can see, the peaks of the surrounding mountains were often obscured by gloomy clouds. Being my first trip to the Italian Alps, I was hoping for a bit warmer visit and sunny days but I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery and history that I was able to see. This area was made up of small villages and towns, many of which were located on the sides of neighboring mountains. It was very cool to be able to see across the landscape and see each town in the distance.
The church, which is located at the highest point above the hamlet of Casamazzagno, was built in the late-Gothic style in the 1540’s. From its high perch, the church offers parishioners and visitors a vast panoramic view of the whole valley.
Manarola Evening - Cinque Terre, Italy
Earlier this week, I posted a photo that I took in Venice last year. Now that I have explored new parts of Italy, I am amazed at the diversity of its beauty. From the architecture and history of cities like Florence and Siena to the quiet streets of small towns in Tuscany, to the towering mountains of the Dolomites, the people and canals of Venice and on to the ruggedness of the Italian Coast, it has something for everyone.
This photo is one of the five villages that make up the renowned Cinque Terre: Manarola. The views of Cinque Terre are second to none. The history of how they came to build these villages, starting at the top of these cliffs to protect themselves from invaders (Turks and pirates), is fascinating. Over time, as the threats waned, they began to build their homes closer and closer to the Mediterranean Sea until there was nowhere left to build. Not only are they beautiful during the day, but something magical happens as night approaches. As darkness approaches and the lights begin to illuminate the homes and streets, a magical feeling seems to embrace you and brings you a wonderful sense of tranquility.
Spray and Pray - Welgevonden Reserve, South Africa
Last week, I posted a photo of a bird in flight that, as a novice shooting birds in flight, was one of my better photos of birds. As I practiced a bit more on last December’s safari, I realized how important panning with moving birds is one of the most essential techniques in getting a bird in focus. By the end of the week, I was sort of getting the hang of it. Of course, panning is only one of many skills that need to be done correctly, including the right camera settings (ISO, Auto-Focus, etc.). The one thing I learned early is to shoot in bursts. Being a landscape photographer, I never needed to shoot in burst. Your subject does not move and your focus is more about composition and light. I used to think of shooting in burst mode as a “Spray and Pray” method of taking photos. That means that if you take a burst of 20 shots, you pray that one of them is actually in focus. When I was shooting this Striped Kingfisher flying from left to right, I thought I might have gotten a few decent shots. When I looked at the photos that night, I had to laugh at what I saw. I actually got the kingfisher in focus as he flew between the branches of a tree. I guess Spray and Pray does work once in a while.
Early Morning Stroll - Venice, Italy
A year ago, I was lucky enough to spend three weeks on a photo trip in Italy. Our itinerary started in Florence where we began exploring Tuscany, then on to Cinque Terre, next stop the Dolomites and finally, Venice. It would have been hard to imagine then what Italy was to experience less than a year later due to COVID-19. Italy is near and dear to me as my mother’s parents immigrated from Italy. It has always been my favorite country with its people, history, cities and natural beauty.
If Italy is my favorite country, Venice has to be one of my favorite cities. It is one of the most desirable destinations in all of Europe and is often overwhelmed with visitors from around the world. To see the photographs and videos of the empty streets due to the pandemic is something that is still hard to wrap my arms around let alone believe it could happen in my lifetime. The only times I have seen it so empty is the wee hours of the morning before and at dawn when everyone is still in bed. These are the great times to stroll Venice as a photographer and get some wonderful shots like this one. May we soon return to some semblance of normalcy where we can appreciate these destinations even more.
King of the Jungle - Welgevonden Reserve, South Africa
The Welgevonden Game Reserve is located in Limpopo, which is the northernmost province of South Africa. It is a large reserve covering a little more than 1.6 million acres and contains an abundance of wildlife. The reserve can be characterized by a mountainous terrain with deep valleys. We stayed at the Nedile Lodge, which sits at the top of a valley, for a week last December. The lodge recently won the top luxury lodge on the continent of Africa, and after staying there, I can see why.
Mornings at the Lodge consist of getting up before dawn, heading out for several hours, and then heading back to the lodge for breakfast. Of course that can change depending on the wildlife activity. The biggest attraction are the lions and there are only two male lions in the game reserve. We had seen the male lion (named Tembe) in the northern part of the reserve where the Nedile Lodge is located. Near the end of one morning’s Game Drive, as we were ready to head back to the lodge for breakfast, we got word that the southern male lion had just made a kill and was resting. Breakfast was soon to become lunch. Our Rangers took us on a roller coaster-like ride for about 45 minutes south of where we had been, hoping that the lion was still there. Our hopes were rewarded as we found him still wide awake (male lions sleep 18-20 hours a day) and he posed for us for a while. Just another great day on our safari.
Solitude - Bandon, Oregon
As we are all experiencing social distancing and perhaps self quarantine, it is nice to go to locations that we have visited in the past and reflect on the wonders of the world that we are missing. There is also hope that we can go back to these locations after the pandemic has been conquered. The memories that always stay with me are the ones where I am in the midst of great natural beauty and have the location almost all to my self. The peace and tranquility of these times make tough times like the ones we are experiencing now more palatable. It also gives us hope that we will have those feelings again hopefully in the near future.
One such memory took place for me last September in Bandon, Oregon. Walking on the beach just after sunrise with a few of my fellow photographers, we had it all to ourselves. As I stood there looking at this scene, I remember the sounds of the waves in the Pacific Ocean. I remember the beautiful light hitting the clouds and the sea stacks that rise from the ocean floor. Most of all, I remember how I felt being so fortunate to experience this moment.
Out of My Way - Welgevonden Reserve, South Africa
Last December, I went on my second South African safari and it was a wonderful experience. Unlike my first experience which was in the middle of a record breaking drought, this one was during great weather and we saw the lushness that we had missed before. It also didn’t hurt that we stayed in a five-star lodge as opposed to large tents. We had so many great wildlife encounters that I will remember forever. One of my favorite encounters were the many elephants we saw. African elephants are magnificent animals and can be mesmerizing to watch. I have seen elephants literally step on the trunk of a tree and flatten it to the ground. I have been in the middle of a elephant herd of over forty in number at a waterhole (on this trip). I have been in the middle of another herd as they lumbered toward a waterhole during a drought. Just getting close to one is an exciting experience. They aren’t aggressive (at least in my experiences) but when they get close to your vehicle, the look in their eyes seem to say “get out of my way”.
Flight - Welgevonden Game Reserve, South Africa
I have a lot of friends who are bird photographers that I refer to as “birders”. I have never been that interested in capturing photos of birds, preferring to capture landscapes instead. The few times I have tried to capture photos of birds, they are never good, especially when they are in flight. It takes great skill and practice to be a good bird photographer and I simply have never wanted to invest the time (and money for the long lenses that are a requirement to be good at it). Last December, on safari in South Africa, I decided to give it a try since I had my long lens for wildlife photos. I read up as much as I could before the trip and was fortunate to be with two of my best friends on the trip that gave me tips along the way. I shot quite a number of shots during the trip and sometime in the middle of the trip, I got some photos that I was pleased with for the first time. This Lilac Breasted Roller was the first one I liked and, while it was my first decent shot, it doesn’t match the work of my birder friends.
Tranquil - Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Alberta
One of my favorite places in the world is Banff National Park in Alberta. The Canadian Rockies are ever present throughout for miles and miles heading north on the western portion of the province. I have traveled to this area many times since the 1990s and I never tire of it. There are so many sights to see, it is hard to pick a favorite one. You could pick any one of fifty or more locations and name it a favorite and you probably would have a good argument for it. Even picking a top five is hard to do. As I looked at this scene from last June, it is hard for me not to include Moraine Lake in my personal top five. This pristine mountain lake is surrounded by ten magnificent peaks that make you feel so insignificant as you take it in. I have been here in all kinds of weather from snow to rain to cloudy to sunny, and it still evokes something inside my soul. I took this particular photo last June on my last visit. I hope when this pandemic ends, I will once again be standing in this spiritual and tranquil place.