Closer Than You Think.

After years of long trips to far-off areas. Searching for the perfect breakfast and some incredible images to take home and share. My wife and I decided elected to stay home and do nothing. Following a midday nap. I noticed some construction gear a few feet from our patio. After decades of chasing down pictures and traveling for hours to track down that spot. You know, that one that will take your photography to new heights. (Okay. I’m exaggerating a bit.) Without taking more than a few steps outside. The picture of the day awaited. I took this shot from a few different angles as well as with and without flash. In the end, preferring the straight on view with the flash facing the sky. Have you ever found your bucket list shot right outside your door. If so, don’t hesitate to share.

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Ongoing Project and Unexpected Opportunities

After hitting a pothole sure to earn it credits to eventually rise to the ranks of sinkhole. My flat tire and damage to the car’s steering column. My wife and I have been forced into utilizing the nearby metro train. Located just a half mile down the road. It’s done wonders getting us to and fro without incident. As I’ve previously mentioned my ongoing project photographing trains and many of the artful architecture of the stations here. Over the weekend, we took the train to DC. It was then that I took the opportunity to take my project inside to focus of the travellers. Of the images taken along the ride. This one resonated with me the most. As the subject looked out towards the trains map to see how many stops there were before reaching her destination. As I become more comfortable capturing strangers. This image stands out more than the rest.

Back to Basics.

Last night I had a dream I had gone back to work as a portrait photographer. As of late, I’ve often thought about the idea, and what I might do differently and how I’d approach each subject personally and in attaining the shot. Perhaps with more knowledge or proper lighting and more confidence. All these years later, I find myself drawn to the image by the same traits. The eyes, expression and possibly what lies beneath. All these years later. Portraiture remains my passion. I hope that if I ever return to it. I’ll skip the nervous knots that often accompanied my sessions and just enjoy the moment.

Happy Travels are Often Fueled by Exceptional Food.

Travel is a key. to happiness and fulfillment for many, including myself. Having visited many cities and small towns in the United States and throughout Asia and Europe. I’ve been treated to so many opportunities to explore different cultures. Meet amazing people and eat fantastic food. From escargot in Paris. Scorpions in Tokyo. Alligator in New Orleans. Snake meat in Taos and more. A full belly makes any trip worth taking. I took this picture while heading to the southern tip of Virginia. The food was great and we met a lively couple with two adorable daughters. As experienced countless times. It not the destination, but the journey that matters.

In Case You’re Wondering

I took this while going for an extended walk today. While most of my street photography often lacks that human element. I find the ones that do, add an extra element of storytelling. Filling a void and adding personality to the image. I’ve noticed that the majority of my photos outside of studio work are shot of people walking away. That element can be due to future sales of prints. Personally, I find that aspect adds more to the story. Allowing the observer to better ecersize their imagination. .That, or I’m not up for being punched in the head, or being angrily questioned as to why I just took their picture.

Photographers Rights

‘I’ve been taking pictures for decades now, however, since the tragedy of 9/11. I’ve been questioned, detained, and told what I could not photograph countless times. Whether it be a police intervention, a property owner, or a security guard, I’ve gotten used to being told, “You can’t take pictures of this.” Or, “What are you doing here?” “What are you taking pictures of, or for?” And “How long do you plan on being here?” It’s something I’ve become used to and somewhat expected. That said, there are times when I ignore or straight-up challenge their demands. That’s why when, earlier this week, I was told by a security guard that I was forbidden to photograph a building on a public street. I chose to explain my rights instead of getting pissed and telling them to “fuck off!” I explained to them my rights and how their demands might be best served in North Korea or some other dictatorship. When I got home, I decided to go online to learn my rights as a photographer. Before my next outing, I plan on printing my rights in the likely chance I’m questioned, held, stopped, or informed about what I can and cannot document. As a fellow photographer, I recommend you do the same.

A.C.L.U. Photographer Rights


Once Upon a Tripod

I’m not sure what made me head back into freezing temps, but whatever it was, I brought a more relaxed attitude. I might not have achieved my ultimate goal or even understood why I was having issues with taking long exposures in manual or bulb mode. I just wanted to take some pictures of the brisk night sky. Below is one of my favorites from my few minutes in the dark.

My Fascination with Slide Film. (Continued)

Continuing my deep dive into decades old images that I captured on slide film. I’ve somewhat shifted my kicking myself for less than perfect attempts at capturing the beauty and uniqueness of my subjects and instead recalling how much fun I was having and how lucky I was to have complete strangers agree to give me the time to practise my new passion. I can also recall how my social skills and ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone were taken to new heights.