One Foote Closer

Weathered And Peeling

2012-01-03T16:19:00.004-07:00

A Single Light

2012-01-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

Macro Fun

2011-11-20T13:46:00.001-07:00

Mandarin Oranges

Grapes

To recreate this type of picture you will need the following: a large glass, sparkling water, sprite or 7 up, fruit of your choice, rock salt, camera and macro lens. Pour the sparkling water into the glass. Add the fruit. To make more or extra bubbles add a few pieces of rock salt to the glass. Adding ice to the glass causes frost or condensation to the glass. This makes the picture appear blurry and frosted. I used a light behind the glass for illumination, no flash. Some editing was done to increase the contrast and brighten the picture. Caution: Don't drink from the glass! Have fun shooting macro.

The Game

2011-11-20T12:04:00.001-07:00

You either love the game or don't get it!

Praying Mantis

2011-11-06T14:38:00.001-07:00

Found this little creature sneaking into the garage one day. I had my son capture it for a future photo section and we brought it into the house. We gave it a bigger home than a mason jar after a day or two. The roomer shoe box was a much more pleasing habit for the mantis. It or she left a egg sack behind in the box. What a surprise for us! With the help of my wife, surprised me too, we put the insect on a house plant. I used two different lens, a 105mm macro and a 70-200mm lens with extension tubes, to photograph the it. Depth of field was difficult to control with either set up but the detail is incredible. Ladybugs, a praying mantis, next time maybe spiders for a macro photo shoot at the kitchen table. Wife willing or out of town!

Halloween Fun

2011-11-06T10:22:00.001-07:00

f/13, 20 sec., ISO100

f/22, 15 sec., ISO 100

f/16, 15 sec., ISO 100

f/13, 20 sec., ISO 100

Halloween is a great time to take pictures. I read somewhere that it is the second most photographed holiday in the United States. My neighbor and friend loves Halloween. He has put on a "Spook Alley" or "Haunted House" the last several years. Each year it gets better. No charge for the scare just fun and laughter, for him and the neighborhood kid who dare go through! These or some long exposures with a flashlight and camera flash. The pictures with with fog machine really make the shot look scary! What do you think?

Relaxing View

2011-10-12T09:14:00.000-06:00

While driving up the coast from Waikiki, I stopped to see the view and figure out why all the cars are parked along the road. I stumbled on a "locals surfing beach" and what a view. There where several areas like this, a little remote, out of the way, and none of those vacationers around! I caught this guy and his dog enjoying the view and relaxing in the shade. If only I had a bigger telephoto lens with me, I might have joined him. Windsurfers make a great subject.

Another Lighthouse

2011-10-12T08:58:00.000-06:00

Sunset Landing

2011-09-19T18:29:00.003-06:00

It looked as though this balloon would land right on me as it came down. The skilled pilot dropped it just in front of me and than took a big hop and dropped about 40 yards behind me. It wasn't the most graceful of landing but provided a great picture opportunity. Some edits were done to bring out the color of the balloon.

Lighthouse

2011-09-19T18:12:00.003-06:00

I hiked down to take these shots, while my wife hiked to the top of Diamond Head crater to get a different prospective.

Romance Is In The Air

2011-09-18T15:31:00.004-06:00

Boat Harbor

2011-09-18T15:20:00.002-06:00

Does anyone what to take a "...three hour tour"? I'll be Skipper, you be...?

Arachnid 5 of 5

2011-09-16T08:07:00.002-06:00

Saving the best for last, this B-I-G spider really creeps me out. Brightly colored, three to four inches in length and a web as big as a house! Lets just say, I will not be walking through the sagebrush and high weeds near the lookout points and roads on Antelope Island in the dark. I don't want to pick up any hitch-hikers!

Arachnid 4 of 5

2011-09-15T17:48:00.003-06:00

Just hanging around!

Sunset In Hawaii

2011-09-14T21:05:00.002-06:00

Looking for a beautiful sunset to watch? May I suggest the Turtle Bay Resort in Hawaii as a good spot to relax and watch the sun go down. Be sure to take someone you love with you, it more romantic that way!

Arachnid 3 of 5

2011-09-14T08:25:00.002-06:00

Orange and white are the team colors for this spider! This guy/gal is between two and three inches from leg to leg. One of the bigger spiders of the day but not the biggest.

Panoramic View

2011-09-13T16:14:00.003-06:00

Arachnid 2 of 5

2011-09-13T15:58:00.002-06:00

Location, location, location is a concept understood by the littlest creatures of the world. I like the colors behind this web.

Arachnid 1 of 5

2011-09-12T20:17:00.003-06:00

Hanging by a thread.

Afraid of spiders? Me too! The bigger they are the s-c-a-r-i-e-r they get! This spider has spun a web the size of your dinner plate! In fact, all the spider pictures I will be posting have very large webs. Their webs span across walking paths, between large sage brush bushes about three or more feet apart, and even between dead tree branches. Spiders are creepy, but they create delicate webs of death worthy of its capture. As a photo and food! Enjoy!

Canoes At Mirror Lake

2011-08-11T10:12:00.002-06:00

I try and visit Mirror Lake at least once a year. I love it there. It is a beautiful place to photograph, fish and relax. I got luck again, and there were canoes out. They make a great subject to shoot around the lake. Next time, I hope to get a person in the canoe. May-be asleep, fishing or just paddling. Does any one want to come and be a model?

Fishing III

2011-08-08T09:42:00.002-06:00

Of the lakes we visited on our little road trip, Trial Lake had more people drowning worms! This may-be due to the time of our visit or better fishing from this lake. Who knows? I didn't drop a hook!

Fishing II

2011-08-05T15:42:00.009-06:00

The campground was closed to the campers at Moose Horn Lake, but the fish were biting! There were a few anglers in the water and a family along the shore hoping to catch a rainbow or brown trout. I wish, I had brought a pole with me.

In the Uintas there is still snow on the ground in July. This year is no exception, but it was July 31st and some areas had large piles (thing of a full size four wheel drive truck large) of snow slowly melting in the lake. The water is cold and this die hard fly fisherman was right out in it. He cast a few time while I was watching him and landed a beauty. I can only imagine the story he is telling now! I hope it is a doozy!

Fishing I

2011-08-05T15:32:00.004-06:00

Caught this young couple and their reflection fishing at Mirror Lake in the Uintas. It was a beautiful morning, except the mosquitoes!

More Water Balloons

2011-07-29T22:58:00.002-06:00

Piercing!

To the left you can see part of the dart!

Thanks kids for the help in capturing these pictures. It was a lot of work to set up and clean up, but a blast no less! Love ya!

Water Balloon Fun

2011-07-12T23:51:00.002-06:00

We had some fun with water balloons in the backyard today. Thanks kids!

Dragonflies

2011-07-11T13:52:00.004-06:00

Dragonflies are fast movers. These guys happened to be at the edge of the water, near birds I was shooting. My hats off to those of you who shoot them often. You make it look so easy! Thanks.

Into The Blue Sky

2011-07-08T12:46:00.003-06:00

I wish I could get a ride!

Afternoon Pleasure

2011-07-06T08:20:00.004-06:00

It has been said, "The worst day fishing beats the best day of work!"

Fireworks Show

2011-07-05T12:52:00.008-06:00

Picture #1 - f/8, 5 sec., ISO200

Picture #2 - f/11, 6 sec., ISO 200

Picture #3 - f/11, 6 sec., ISO 200

I hope those of you who shot fireworks for the holiday captured some good ones. I read an article some years back about shooting fireworks. It said you should use four to six seconds shutter speed, an aperture of f/11 to f/16, and a tripod. A co-worker suggested using a hat to cover the lens also. The hat stops the exposure so the burst of light, firework bloom, does not get to big. It has been helpful tip. Thanks, Mark! Also, the article it mentioned having a famous landmark in the picture. This would give the viewer a sense of scale and place. Well, the Burger Stop in Layton, Utah is not world famous but a landmark no less! Good food and car shows throught out the summer. You should give them a try! Thank you to Layton City and those who put on the show. A good time was had by all!

Which of the three pictures do you like best? Please let me know.

Find The Foot Clips - July 4th Edition

2011-07-04T07:28:00.004-06:00

Do you remember the 10-10-10 project? This was another picture I prepared to post. The holiday theme make it an appropriate picture to post today. There are 10 blue foot paper clips and an extra Foote to find within the picture. To enlarge the picture, click on it. Good luck. Happy Forth Of July!

Rainbows

2011-07-03T13:15:00.002-06:00

If you look closely, there are two rainbows. This was quite the surprise and a lucky shot. Mom and I had gone out to Antelope Island to capture lighting bolts. We hand our fingers crossed. While waiting for the rain to lighten up and lighting to jolt through the sky we sat in the truck talking about the fun we've been having shooting pictures together. I decided to step out of the truck and start setting up a tripod and get ready for the sunset. By now we could tell there would be no lighting. To my delight, behind us was this incredible double rainbow in the light of the setting sun. The top picture is what I saw. As mom turned to get out of the truck, she could see the rainbow cover most of the island. I quickly changed to a fish-eye lens to capture the wide view you see in the bottom picture. There has been some edits to clean things up and try to flatten out the curve created by the fish-eye lens. I hope you enjoy the beauty of the rainbows! We did.

Fun With Lights

2011-07-03T13:03:00.003-06:00

Special thanks to my nieces and nephews for the help in spinning the lights, doing out-lines and modeling. We all had fun at the camp out. Long exposure shots can be lots of fun. More fun with colored lights and the ability to spell ones name backwards. Notice there are no names, we just could not do it. Better luck next time!

Burrowing Owl

2011-06-17T09:21:00.003-06:00

One of the many creatures on Antelope Island most people miss.

Little Blue Flowers

2011-06-08T09:13:00.002-06:00

I have posted pictures of this flower before. The flower bed is full of them and they keep coming back each year. I have planted Black-eyed Susan's, and Shasta Daisies which I hope take root for more variety. Its hard to believe the flowers are so small, the size of a nickle, but burst with a sea of color in the garden.

Miners Shack

2011-05-31T11:55:00.002-06:00

Shot in Park City, Utah. Hard to believe, there is still snow on the ground!

An Up Hill Climb

2011-05-20T13:25:00.005-06:00

The posters that have an inspirational message, like courage, inspiration, is what I think of when I look at this picture. Adults and teens need that encouragement to reach higher, work harder, or get motivated. Some more than others. For work or play, the drive to succeed has to be refueled, recharged, or rebooted every once in a while. The charge, different for each of us, gives us the needed energy to make it through challenging times, up lifts our spirit and put a smile on our face. Share it with others!

It's All About U, Or Y!

2011-05-16T09:33:00.006-06:00

I find it funny how we see different thinks in the same picture. Is it the letter U or a Y? For locals here in Utah, it may-be defined by the school you attend or root for, the University of Utah or Brigham Young University! What ever the case may-be, things old, rusty, or weathered make great subjects to photograph, don't you think? Keep your eyes open and camera handy you never know what you may see!

Frozen Light

2011-05-15T13:12:00.002-06:00

It is hard to believe, but true, there is snow and ice on many of the roof tops in Park City! (May 1st) Traveling down one of the streets, I spotted Christmas lights and icicles hanging from the gutter of a home. After backing up, I jumped out and spent a few minutes capturing the frozen lights. If only it had been dark and the lights were on, what a shot that would make!

Water Drop

2011-05-12T09:21:00.000-06:00

Here is another shot from the Nikon weekend. A flag was used as a back drop that reflected into the water. It took a little timing and luck but I was able to capture a keeper. Nikon had set up five stations, each one was very simple and cost less than $25 to make. You can get away with just two of them. A black background and white background. They are made of stiff foam core boards. I will have to photograph the set up, so you can see how easy it is to reproduce. I have the supplies at home and I'll bet you do as well. The possibilities for backdrops with colored or patterned paper is endless.

Paint Drip

2011-05-10T09:29:00.003-06:00

I attended an activity sponsored by Nikon. They had some stations set up with items to photograph. This was shot using a wireless flash set up. The Nikon Speedlight flash system is very impressive and versatile. I know I don't take advantage of it as much as I should. I have done a little photoshop magic to darken the background but other than that, it is what it is - a paint drip! My thanks to Paul and Bill from Nikon who make the trip to Utah each year and share their knowledge and all the equipment!

King Of The Hill

2011-05-09T09:36:00.003-06:00

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:32:00.004-06:00

Happy Mother's Day! To the woman I call mom, my wife, and mother-in-law. Thank you for the love and support all these many years. I can't say it or express it enough, I love you.

Fencing With Fashion

2011-03-28T08:18:00.003-06:00

This is the last of the fencing photos I will be posting. These two young ladies are just as fierce and aggressive as any of the boys, I watched that day. It was an enjoyable match to watch. Click on the picture to enlarge it and you will see the tip, (wrapped in pink) well placed in the chest. They caught my eye with their fashionable socks and the pink face shield and vest. Go girls!

The Point Is...

2011-03-25T09:13:00.002-06:00

Kids of all shapes and sizes where at the tournament. I wittiness a b-i-g and t-a-l-l young man, age 13 to 15, take on a short and little young man of the same age. An unfair fight based on size to say the least! I didn't think the short kid had much of a chance. His opponent has a height and reach advantage. To my surprise, the little guy schooled him and out scored him severely! I latter found out the big guy was new to the sport and the little guy had been fencing for awhile. The point is.... you can't judge a book by it cover or a little kid with a pointy stick (sword) is just as dangers as a big kid, if he knows how to use it!

Musketeers In Training

2011-03-23T18:54:00.002-06:00

I went to a fencing competition at Weber State University to help a women get better pictures with her DSLR camera. I had no idea how big the sport was! It was great fun! Lots of action and quick moves. Be sure to click on the pictures to see them larger. It is crazy to see the end of the sword poking into the body! Score! Point! Next victim (opponent). Cropping was done to exclude all the parents and spectators.

Frozen Puddle

2011-03-21T09:01:00.003-06:00

f/13, 1/160 sec., ISO400, Crop and levels adjustments for both pictures.

As a kid, I always loved to walk on and brake the ice of little puddles. Once in awhile the puddle would be deeper than I thought and I got more than I bargained for! It is funny the things that trigger childhood memories. Now as an adult, I get out of the truck, photograph the puddle, get back into the truck and drive over the puddles, keeping my feet dry! Yes, I'm still a kid at heart!

Colorful Kite

2011-03-20T14:29:00.003-06:00

f/9, 1/200 sec., ISO 100

f/9, 1/160 sec., ISO 100

Get the kids outside and introduce them to some old fashion fun, kite flying!

Rusty Nail

2011-03-18T10:38:00.003-06:00

both shot using f/11, 1/80 sec. ISO 200

Saddled Up

2011-03-18T10:22:00.004-06:00

70-200mm lens with 2x teleconverter, f/13, 1/250 sec.,
ISO 200, cropped with some levels adjustments.

And they were heading west!

How Close Can You Get?

2011-02-22T09:23:00.003-07:00

Several cars and trucks drove by to see this bison. He or she was grazing next to the road and didn't seem bothered by the attention. Yes, some of us (crazy folks with cameras) got out of our vehicles to take a picture. The bison or buffalo seem very tame and docile, however, they are wild and free roaming on the island. Its best not to provoke them or get in their way. I understand they can run very fast for their size. If there were young bison around, we would never be so close. Personal note to Judy. It was good to see you out shooting pictures. I hope we run into each other again.

Snowy Herd

2011-02-22T09:13:00.002-07:00

Its cold, wet and snowing....at least they have coats on!

Where The Buffalo Roam

2011-02-16T20:16:00.002-07:00

The free roaming buffalo on Antelope Island are great big subjects to photograph. Their size demands respect, reverence and awe! It is very exciting to be so close to them. I have seen people get out of their cars and walk closer and closer and closer to them, for a picture. Point and shoot cameras in hand most of the time. Are you crazy!
With a little patience, and a slow moving vehicle you can get close to the buffalo. These two pictures were taken at sunrise just a few days ago. With a good telephoto lens you can look them right in the eye! If you visit, stay in or close to your car and by all means watch were you step!!!

Coyote

2011-02-14T23:35:00.003-07:00

Wildlife is a difficult subject to photograph. The rewards are truly satisfying when you capture something that has eluded you. Antelope Island is full of wildlife. Birds, buffalo, antelope, coyotes etc... It is a great place to visit and close too.
On a resent visit, I saw a few coyotes. I knew they populated the island but had yet to see any. A few crossed the road in front of me. Others moved quickly through the tall grasses and brush like ghosts as I passed them. I was shocked and excited! The buffalo are easy to spot, big brown beasts, the coyotes, however, are elusive creatures. I could not stop the truck, or get my camera out to photograph them fast enough. I was about to leave when this coyote leaped and pounced a few time in the same area. Lunch time! I wonder if it was a roadrunner? I was ready. He poked his head up. Click! Both of us were happy, he caught lunch and I captured him!

Trekking Part 2

2011-02-05T22:12:00.003-07:00

Trekking Through The Snow

2011-02-04T20:13:00.006-07:00

I haven't fallen off the Internet blogging world, well not completely! I have taken some pictures the past two months, just not a lot. I take less picture in the winter due to the cold. (I know, I need to move south, right!) I also get a little burned out, due to Christmas sales, that the last thing I want to do is pick-up my own camera! I will be posting again, more frequently so please bear with me. I don't say it often enough, thank you for your posts as well, I look for inspiration and ideas as I visit your blogs.

Christmas Scenery

2010-12-15T09:53:00.003-07:00

f/3.2, 1/5 sec., ISO 100

f/2.8, 1/2 sec., ISO 100

f/2.8, 1/2 sec., ISO 100

Night time photography in December is magical! I am not a big fan of the cold, but I did get out to capture scenes from downtown Salt Lake City. There is lots to see and enjoy. The lights are spectacular and people watching fantastic! The little children are the most expressive, with their big eyes, rosy cheeks, runny noses and oohs and ah's! If you get the chance go down town.
Marry Christmas and warm wishes to you and your family.

Some Photoshop Skills

2010-11-14T10:10:00.001-07:00

I don't edit my photos heavily, but once in a while its fun to create something from two or more photographs. The possibilities are endless if you have the time to spend and understand how to use the software. Digital photography has made us all skeptics as to what is real and what is fake.

It's hard not to look at a photograph and wonder what photoshop work has been done to it. Some edits are fine and thankfully so. No one wants to see the pimples or zits on there face. I personal like the photoshop diet, but often times it gets carried away.

I do admire the those who can use software (photoshop or the like) quickly and make it appear as though it has always been there. "It takes it time to learn.", "Buy a good instruction book.", and "Take some classes!" are comments I hear from those who can manipulate there photos and make it look good.

Some of the best advise I have been given and give out is "keep it simple", and "learn to do it right in/with the camera". I spend less time at the computer if I take the time to set up and prepare for the photograph.

Dew Drops

2010-11-10T21:23:00.004-07:00

The last of the fall color.

More Halloween Fun

2010-11-10T10:00:00.008-07:00

This year, for Halloween, I was Uncle Fester from The Adams Family. I realize this is a late post but thought it would be good for a laugh still! The photo was taken by a co-worker, Amber, in the studio. Each year we set things up for Halloween and invite kids of all ages to come in costume for a free setting and 4X6 print. It is fun to see the creativity of parents and children with there costumes. Coming up with a costume for Halloween is hard but fun nonetheless. Just try selling a camera in costume! Would you buy anything from Uncle Fester but light bulbs? LOL!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-29T22:27:00.003-06:00

Have a spooktacular night with your camera! Use the night shot mode with a tripod or a long exposure with flash in rear sync mode, to capture the Halloween Spirit. Check the children's' candy, be sure to sneak a piece or two for yourself. I like the Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kats and Peanut M&Ms. How about you? This shot is done with an off camera flash, long exposure, tripod, and my S-C-A-R-Y son! I look forward to seeing what each of you post.
f/9, 15 sec., ISO 100

Bone Tree

2010-10-22T10:30:00.004-06:00

While on a family trip to Vernal, Utah and Dinosaur Monument, I saw this tree just off the side of the road. I thought I'd better stop, get out, take a closer look and bring the camera. Someones collection was on display.

The 10 Hidden Foot Clips

2010-10-12T13:15:00.003-06:00

Here are the answers. I hope you found all the clips, even the extra one! Thanks for being a part of 10-10-10.

10-10-10, The Challenge And My Picture

2010-10-10T08:50:00.029-06:00

Some time back, I issued a challenge to you, fellow bloggers, to photograph 10 things, the same or different, and post the out come on 10-10-10. That's today! If you have forgotten there is still some time. I look forward to seeing what each of you have come up with.

Do you remember this picture? It was one I posted at the beginning of the year. It is an example of the 10 things to look for in the picture that follows. Good luck!

Like the books Where's Waldo or I Spy, in this picture you will find 10 feet hidden. It is a high resolution photo, so if you need to enlarge it and zoom in on it to find all 10, you can. Some are more obvious than others but it should not be hard to find any of them.

I want to give special thanks to J&J Nursery for allowing me to use there place of business, goods and wares, for the background. I received only one or two odd looks from patrons.
I'd love to go back in the spring as the flowers bloom in the green house. I'll need a macro!

Now it is my hope to share a link of the others who are doing the 10-10-10 challenge. Please be patient with me as I up date this through the day. The following blogs have excepted the challenge and need your visit and comments:

Hope - Essence Of: Fine Art Photography
Keith - Holdingmoments
Stacey - Dawning Inspirations
Scott - Find Another View
Carrie - God's Garden of Nature in this Changing World
Karen - What Karen Sees
Darlin - My life for a year
Jennifer - Jennifer Photography
Avery - Photography And Avery

P.S. There is an extra Foote in the picture, can you find it? Did you like this? Did you find all 10?I have another photograph, which I will post if requested.

More Fall Colors II

2010-10-06T10:40:00.005-06:00

Cropped as a 10x20 for a print.

BMX Action

2010-10-06T08:46:00.003-06:00

5050 BMX, a local bike store, put on a event with pro, intermediate, and novice riders. Cash and prizes were awarded. It was crazy! I shot until the batteries went dead.

Walking In The Woods

2010-10-05T18:44:00.005-06:00

Took a drive with the family on Sunday to catch the last of the fall leaves. With the expected rains and cooler weather this week I don't think there will be much color left to see. We found this dirt road lined with aspen trees. I'm thinking photo-op, my kids are saying "Are we there yet!" and my wife is wondering were am I going. My family, reluctantly, gave me a stroll so I can do my thing. They even held hands! Ah!... love...family... isn't that sweet! I love you, guys. Thanks for coming with me. Used a Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 lens, at f/10, 1/60 of a sec., ISO 100, cropped with text and some levels correction.

P.S. Five days left until 10-10-10! Are you ready? Need an idea? Send me an email.

Don't Forget The Challenge Of 10!

2010-09-27T08:14:00.003-06:00

This is a reminder to get it finished, started or a invite to participate in the challenge. 10 photos of the something arranged 10 different ways, or 10 photos of the different things arranged the same way! Actually it just as to have something to do with 10; the number, the people you love the most, the most wanted (lol), your 10 best photographs, the 10 best places to eat or 10 of the worst! The challenge is open to your creative minds, not dirty minds, all for fun and something different to do. Put them together in a college or maybe you can get them all in one shot. It make no difference. Post the picture(s) on 10-10-10. I will be by to visit your blog to make a comment. I hope to make a link on my page of those who have participated so everyone else can take a look at your 10 also. I look forward to seeing the 10 you come up with! If you know 10 others who might take on such a challenge invite them. Good luck.

More Fall Colors

2010-09-26T22:45:00.004-06:00

I just had to pull over to get a picture. The hill side spilled over the road with color! It was a breath taking view.

When do you take a vertical picture?

Answer, right after taking the horizontal picture!

On the last few road trips I have taken my brother or father with me. We have taken some long dirt roads to dizzying heights. Many of the roads needed high clearance and possibly four wheel drive. Kidney punchers for sure! The cool fresh air and view are worth the trouble. The ride would be more fun on four wheelers, I'll add them to my wish list too! This trip was American Fork Canyon, the Alpine Loop, and Provo Canyon. If you are looking for fall colors these are just a few places in Utah to go.

Kitten At Play

2010-09-26T22:16:00.004-06:00

This cute kitten was playing in the driveway when I came upon it. The item getting so much affection was a mouse. I watched for a while and took a few pictures. I was using a Nikon D700 with a 500mm f/4 lens. Barrowed equipment, unfortunately, for the evening. The lens was very heavy but a thrill to shoot with. I poked the lens out the window and used the door as a brace to capture the kitten at play. Setting were f/7.1, 1/2000 of a sec., ISO 200.

Sunset Sunday II

2010-09-26T22:00:00.004-06:00

In the last sunset Sunday, I promised to share a shot I'd taken with a Nikon 300mm lens. Remember, this was a part of the Nikon sponsored event out at Antelope Island. I used my own camera body and the 300mm lens, f/10, 1/60 of a sec., ISO 100. A great time was had by all!

The Backyard

2010-09-26T21:49:00.003-06:00

Can you image the view from their backyard or kitchen window? The morning light hitting the mountain side would make any night owl get out of bed for the view provided with a cup of joe or coco!

Fall Color Begins

2010-09-20T09:45:00.005-06:00

The fall colors are starting here in Utah's mountains. Not seeing them would be a tragedy! My son and I went on a little road trip finding these beautiful colors near Snow Basin ski resort above Pine View Dam. The aspens have not started to turn yellow just yet, so there is time to get out for a drive and capture the colors of nature. If you are a hiker, the trails are waiting for you with fresh air, more color, and even better views! Enjoy!

Sunset Sunday

2010-09-19T18:15:00.004-06:00

Scott Law at Finding Another View does a Sunset Sunday each week, and I finally have one to post on a Sunday. Go and visit his blog page. He has some great stuff. This was shot during the Nikon sponsored shoot out, September 11, 2010. The funny thing about this picture is I used my own equipment! D200, Sigma 18-50mm lens, f/13, 1/80 of a sec., ISO 100. Go figure! I do have a sunset picture I'll post later, that was shot with a 300mm f/2.8 lens. I had four others with me who borrowed Nikon equipment and I helped them with any questions, so I didn't shot much myself. It was a fun night. I look forward to the next one.

Wild Fire

2010-09-15T09:02:00.012-06:00

The large plums of smoke attracted attention for miles away. I first saw the smoke as I came home from Salt Lake City. The fire was started by a lighting. After, I realized where the fire was I gave it no thought. I had the chance to use a 200 - 400mm f/4 lens from Nikon, and wanted to shoot some action shots. The fire was not what I had in mind. My first look at the fire, I realized it was a long way out with no way to get to it. I didn't find any games at the high schools, and no one playing at the parks, so I made my way home.

Since, I was getting closer to my girls school I thought I would pick them up. I was headed the back way to the school when I realized how close the smoke was. I turned right, for the smoke, not left, for my girls and the school. The fire was in the marsh lands around the Great Salt Lake. From the dirt road I was on, I could see the flames and a helicopter fighting to get them under control. Other firefighters and water tank trucks drove past and sat up in the field about a football fields length away from me.

I wanted action to photograph and there it was! Quickly, I jumped in the back of the truck to set up and start taking pictures. Several on lookers stopped to see the events unfold, also. A few asked me if I knew what was going on. Others had there own cameras out taking pictures too. The news media was there also, video and sound bites for those guys! I don't think this road has not seen this much traffic before!

At one point it looked as if the fire was about to burn itself out. The wind changed direction and with a gust the flames shot into the air again with black smoke filling the sky. What a site! Great for me and other spectators, not so great for those who are trying to fight it.

The live stock was oblivious to the events around them. The cows kept doing what cows do! If the fire had been closer they may have moo-ved! Ha! Ha! Ha!

The birds, however, were taking off for greener pastures! A flock of Canadian Geese flew by, several small birds, sparrows etc... and some gray herons I think. The geese honked as they went by as if to warn us! I was staying put, I had a big lens to use and I wanted to get the most out of it. Sometimes I just love working at a camera store! Nikon sponsored an event we did out at Antelope Island, this is way I am able to barrow some very nice equipment. I love it when that happens, my wish list get bigger each time.

The pilot did fantastic job! He or she made it look easy. He/she has the best set for viewing the fire. I wonder, do they have a camera on board? Will they give me a ride? NO WAY! I am fine with the point of view I already have. A very special thanks to Nikon for the equipment and support, be sure to check out there web site for some of the lastest gear. The D7000 was just announced and it looks like it will be a good one! I used a D200, Nikon 200-400mm f/4 lens and a 2x teleconverter on few of the pictures. Some edits and croping done also.

Sailing On Bear Lake

2010-09-01T08:34:00.005-06:00

There are several sail boats docked at the marinas around Bear Lake. My family and I have gone to Bear Lake for a mini vacation five or six times now, and this is only the second time we have seen any one sail on the lake. This little guy, had the brightest sail and quickly caught my eye. I will have to spend more than one day at the lake if I want to see several sail boats out at a time. I'll need a windy day and a super zoom lens to capture them from the shoreline. Another reason to get a super zoom!

Jumping The Boat's Wake

2010-08-30T08:40:00.002-06:00

While out on a family outing, I saw this young man cruising on the lake. He was jumping the wake created by another boat. With my camera in hand, my brother-in-law at the wheel, we asked if he would be willing to jump the wake of our boat while I took pictures. He responded with a "Sure!" and pushed the throttle creating a wave and spout of water out the back of the wave runner. Throttle down and a quick turn he was headed back toward us. The first few passes didn't launch the craft very high, this was fine because I needed get the camera setting dialed in right. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to photography a moving subject, while moving up, down, and side to side yourself? Do they make Dramamine for cameras? Oh yes! Its called (VR) vibration reduction! The 55-200mm lens I was using, did not have VR! I have not used that particular lens in a long time, and forgot that it does not have VR. Work with what you have right! Time to kick up the shutter speed and spread the feet apart more and bend the knees. In the end I got a good picture, a little work out and a sunburn that only peeled a layer off of my face. D200, Nikon 55-200mm lens, f/4.5, 1/400 sec., ISO 100.

I Challenge You

2010-08-24T07:35:00.012-06:00

I challenge you to come up with something unique, different, funny or even plain silly and photograph it 10 times. Shoot 10 different items or the same thing 10 different ways. In color or black in white, maybe some of both! October 10, 2010 is coming up, 10-10-10, do you see the theme. So I challenge you, your friends and anyone else, to post a picture(s) on their blog that is created with 10 in mind. Are you up to the challenge? Leave a comment stating you accept my challenge and I will visit your blog page on October 10, 2010 and leave a comment of my own. I have an idea already in mind! What will you do? Here is an example, I did this type of thing on 09-09-09! Click here! Don't be frightened just laugh!

Young Lady In Pink

2010-08-22T11:41:00.004-06:00

I watched with some amazement this young lady in pink race around the track. She pushed the bike hard, hit the jump without fear and soared like a bird over them. She raced with a small group of others, all men, giving them a run for there money. If I were a betting man, I'd bet she could place in the top five or even the top three in a race. Who says a girl can't compete against a boy? Who wants to loose to a girl? Having two young girls myself, I say, YOU GO GIRL!

Rider # 105

2010-08-22T11:29:00.006-06:00

Racing Around The Track

2010-08-18T22:10:00.002-06:00

Recently, I took a customer, Judy, to one of my favorite places to help her learn to use her camera in something other than auto mode. I had not been to the dirt track for a very long time and knew we could get action shots there. After a few pointers and help setting her camera up we looked for riders on two or four wheels.
Using shutter priority, continuous focus, and continuous shooting, with a finger held down on the shutter button, captures amazing results.
I realize there will be a lot of pictures to go through, many of them looking the same, but it is the best way to capture action (sports) photos.
The above picture is a good example of this. I was panning and following rider #39 while he began his turn, spitting dirt all over. I have between five and eight pictures of him as he makes this turn. I do not keep all of them. I delete pictures from the memory card(s) at home on my computer. I get a bigger screen, 19" verses 3", to make judgements calls on sharpness, composition etc..., this way I don't delete the better photo of the bunch or group. I still look at them in the field. I check the histogram, highlights and a few other things to make sure I am getting good results. This photo is the best of the series with some good timing. The two riders in the background are on a different section of the track and happen to be speeding by at the right time! We all get lucky once in awhile! You can increase that luck by having your camera set up right, keep your finger on the shutter button even if it is longer than usual, following through (pan) properly and putting yourself in the right place to capture a great picture.
I love action shots! I feel as though I am right there riding along with them.
D200, 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, f/2.8, 1/160 sec., ISO 400 with help from a mono-pod. Some edits, contrast and cropping.
Thanks for coming with me Judy, I hope you learn to love using your camera in some of its other modes and settings. Best of luck!

Colorful Sunset

2010-08-05T10:46:00.003-06:00

Sunset captured at Bountiful Ponds. Cropped, horizon line leveled, other wise no enhancements have been done. Being at the right place at the right time with your camera equals great results, don't you agree? Its not always luck!

Red Canoe

2010-08-02T08:47:00.003-06:00

This red canoe was a great subject to photograph. It is the perfect fit to the lake and scenery. I could have spent more time photographing it, but remember it was the vehicle for a romantic afternoon and I did not want to be in the way!

Mirror Lake is a destination place for a day trip. Pack a lunch, sun screen, a camera of course, and your fishing gear. I personal have a hard time deciding want to do, fishing or photography! This time it was photography and now I have an excuse to go again, I need to go fishing! There are several others small lakes and areas to visit near Mirror Lake. A day trip may be enough time to explore, but it provides a great diversion. There are time when you have to clear your head and reconnect with nature. Shot using a Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 lens with some editing. Cropping and or levels adjustment to bring out the color.

A Bad Day Fishing

2010-07-28T09:43:00.004-06:00

"A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work!", as the saying goes. The tangled line and bubble left here, make for a frustrating day fishing. I first saw the tree and branch and waited for the fisherman to float into the background to make the picture more interesting. I love to be in the outdoors. I even tried my hand at fishing. I caught two things, a sun burn and some great photos!

Green And Red Canoes

2010-07-25T20:51:00.002-06:00

Summertime is passing by too quickly! These are just a few pictures from a day trip I took with my family. I want to go again. Image what this place would look like in the early morning hours. I will have to go by myself, the family is not willing to get up early for the drive.

More pictures of the red canoe will be posted later. I spent about 20 minutes photographing the canoe while the owner was "wooing" his date with wine and cheese! I didn't ask his permission because I didn't want to interrupt. It was just like the movies! Beautiful scenery, romance, and a canoe. To be honest, I almost started laughing when I saw the wine glasses and wine come out of the bag. I thought what next, cheese. Out it came! I am not the only one who has seen too many "chic flicks"! I do wish them luck.

Night Shots At The Amusement Park II

2010-07-20T11:33:00.007-06:00

As you enter the amusement park you will see this water fountain. It is one of several. Kids of all ages (18 - 80 year old adults) are running through the water. Some to cool off, others to try and win a bet! As I went in I made a mental note, to stop and photograph this area before I left. It was about 10pm and the park would soon be closing and still there are people playing in the water. Who wants to grow-up? Music plays with the timing of the fountain and bursts of water. At night it is lite up. White, green, yellow, and blue lights give the viewer or participant a little show. Each picture is shot using manual mode and long exposures. Top - f/11, 2 sec., ISO 250. Middle - f/13, 4 sec., ISO 250. Bottom - f/13, 4 sec., ISO 250.

Night Shots At The Amusement Park

2010-07-14T21:12:00.004-06:00

The box car or seats, riders loose there dinner in, can barely been seen. I had taken my big flash to use, but didn't check to see if it had batteries! I was not willing to buy them at the amusement park so I worked with what I had. Not on this photograph but others, I used the camera's flash to give me more light and a better ghostly image. It worked but I like this picture better. Nikon D200, Sigma 18-50 lens, on a tripod, 2 seconds, f/11, ISO 250.

I used the bulb setting on my camera to capture this picture. The "SKY RIDE" as it is called, had stopped. With the empty green chair sitting still I quickly captured this shot. I love the colors. The tall tower ride in the background is called the "ROCKET" and is a favorite of my children. You get to choose between a blast off or re-entry style ride. Fun if you like that kind of thing! I am more of a "SKY RIDE" person, but hate it when it suddenly stops and others try and bounce in their chairs. 0.62 seconds, f/5.6, ISO 400 with a tripod.

This is the first hill on a double loop roller coaster. After this downward twisted fall you are thrust into one loop and than another! The bravest of souls keep their hands in the air for most of the ride. Some scream, some gasp for air, others pray and hang on! What a ride! The last few years I have tried to get a photograph of this coaster with on luck. It has been to dark or rainy. I got it and I am happy with it. A little blur to show movement and speed. 1/80 of a second, f/3.5, ISO 250 with some cropping.

Fireworks

2010-07-08T23:08:00.002-06:00

This shot comes from the east bench, looking west down into the city of Kaysville. They put on a nice show. Thought it was faint, we could hear the announcer, and music from our vantage point.
I could not get my remote trigger to work so there is a little wiggle in the picture do to my heavy finger. This was the best of the bunch. I am happy with it, but glad another city would be shooting off fireworks on Monday night.
I like firework shots that have something in them besides the burst. Some of the best ones I have seen have been of the US Capital or other major landmark. Think of the New Years celebrations around the world as you watch the news coverage. The Statue Of Liberty, New York, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France or the Opera House in Sydney, Australia. They look great all lit up by pyrotechnics. I don't live close to any of those spots so I work with what I've got.

These are from Monday night. My wife and girls are in the back of the truck enjoying the view. Three to four thousand vehicles (I really don't know the amount!) parked in an old shopping plaza to jockey for the best view. One might think two hours before the event would be enough time to get a great spot. WRONG! It wasn't bad but not the best.

For these pictures I used the rear-curtain sync to illuminate the truck and the back of the girl's heads. It worked out much better than I thought it would. I even reduced the flash out put. The top picture has the firework burst very sharp and my girls slightly out of focus. The bottom picture is opposite. I think both look good, but I can do better. I have one more chance to get them both sharp on July 24th when Utah celebrates Pioneer Days.

A Few From The Parade

2010-07-07T21:11:00.004-06:00

I like the reflection in the tuba! By the time I realized what I had in front of me it was to late to take anything but a horizontal picture. This one is cropped, but I still got it!

This guy was fun to watch. He went by and gave a high-five to those who could reach and a low-five to those who could not! I'll admit I wanted to see him fall, but he is really good at riding a tall wheel!

I have not gotten out much to shoot as of late, thus no posts. I haven't looked at all the post each of you have done either. I hope to do better. I have spoiled my children and spent my time off at the water park with them instead of taking pictures. I will need to stay out late and capture some night shots or get up early and capture the sunrise and than take them swimming! Anyone willing to get up and leave at 4:30 am with me? I'll need the company to stay awake, I'm more of a night person.

Wild Flowers III

2010-06-07T09:22:00.004-06:00

These are the last of the wild flowers from my yard. The white flower is the size of a dime or small button. The more colorful flowers are small in stature while blue/violet ones grow tall. It is as if they want to hog the spot (sun) light. I have been unable to get a good shot of the red and yellow flowers so far. I did plant some daisy that will grow tall and give a new color to the flower bed. They will be late summer blooms, however.

Wild Flowers II

2010-06-04T21:19:00.023-06:00

The yellow flowers are this years surprise. There is a small bunch, five or six stocks, in the flowerbed. Yesterday, I was admiring them before work and thought I get my camera out at take a photograph when I get home. When I got home they were gone! Like the little blue/violet flowers I posted earlier, these folded up and went to bed. I first thought someone had come and cut them than realized they close up at night. I have three types of flowers that do this and I don't know the names of any of them. I should have keep the package! Duh!! If any one knows the type, name, species please let me know. Shot using a 105mm macro lens with my D200. Some color and levels corrections done for enhancement. ISO 200, f/10, 1/200 sec.

Wild Flowers

2010-06-04T11:11:00.003-06:00

It's hard to believe these flowers are about the size of a nickel. Last year, I planted a package of wild flower seeds. The results have been very pleasant. Most of the flowers are of the verity I have photographed. I have no idea what kind they are. The flowers grow to two and a half feet to three feet. At night or early evening they close up to little buds. It is like they have been put to bed. They are a beautiful shade of blue and violet, some are a pale blue almost white. Shot using a 105mm macro lens with some levels adjustment.

Little Hooters

2010-05-27T09:24:00.002-06:00

My neighbor took me on a little road trip to see baby owls. There are three in the nest, I could only see two, with mommy owl no where in sight. While out for a drive, he looked through the sun roof in his truck to spy the large nest and its residents. What a find! There was another large nest about 100 to 150 yards up the road. If there were youngsters in it we could not see them. I would hate to be a mouse, rabbit, chihuahua or cat! There are some hungry birds looking for dinner!

It was overcast for the first picture and much brighter for the second. I used a 70-200mm lens with a 2X teleconverter. Some cropping and levels correction was done to enhance the pictures.

Weed

2010-05-18T17:28:00.007-06:00

Shot using a Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, f/2.8, 1/125 sec., ISO 200, cropped to virtual, with some levels correction.

Extreme Western Utah

2010-05-18T16:14:00.011-06:00

"Go West...!" I did and what is out there for your viewing pleasure? Not much! As you head west out of the state of Utah there is nothing to see but road and large areas of open smelly lake bed. The Great Salt Lake was once larger than it is now and it's hard to believe water covered the road to Nevada.
I had remembered that there was some art work along the highway. The "tree"and a "car hedge" at one time. The car art was not there but tree did not disappoint.
Out in the middle of nowhere on the north side of the road there is this LARGE cement tree. I will have to find out more about it and post a link.
Since I was this far, I went to the Bonneville Salt Flats and set a new land speed record in a truck! Not really! There was water and it made a soft thick mud that stuck to tires and mudflaps for days. I may still have some leftovers hanging on.
The movie Independence Day has some scenes shot out at the salt flats. It is as vast and lifeless as the movies shows. Remember Will Smith dragging the alien in the parachute?
This summer I will have to try and get out there again. One, to drive on the salt flats, two, to capture the the harsh beauty at night. May-be with storm clouds and lightning or a star filled sky.
Does anyone want to come? It is a long drive by myself. Paul thanks for coming with me. Get that camera out and remember to rotate the CPL filter!

Lady Bug 3

2010-05-11T14:15:00.005-06:00

This will be my last post of lady bugs for awhile. I hope to capture some through the summer but they may have all flown away. I see no sign of them at or near the release sight. Time will tell. I would like to photograph a child with a lady bug on their hand or arm. Little kids and the bugs they play with while outside will make for a great set of photos.

You may have noticed a change in the last few postings. A fellow blogger has had some of her work stolen, clammed, used without her permission and this has caused me to re-think posting pictures. Photography, art, paintings etc... is subjective, both to the producer of said work and those who view the work. You may like or hate it!

I have enjoyed viewing the photography and other works of art posted by bloggers from around the world. The idea of stealing, copying, or using it and claiming it for my own is unthinkable. If asked, many of us respond the same way.

I know some friends and family members have taken and used my pictures as screen savers, for their computers or phones. I may not object to this loudly and I would hope that I am given credit for it at the very least.

In the past my name has appeared at the bottom or the side of a picture. Like many of you, this is done to claim my work, yet I am still be willing to share it with others. By share I mean to view. Although my name can be cropped or photoshoped and the photograph claimed by others. I (We are) am not foolish enough to think that adding a name alone will stop it from being stolen. I believe people are good, but there are those who are not. I want to continue to post photos, inspire and be inspired by the work of others but will do it with trepidation.

My name will now appear across the subject of the photographs with the hope of frustrating those who might steal my work and use it for their own. I do not make a living from selling my pictures but believe anyone and everyone one should be compensated of for there work. Someday, I may have a photograph someone will be willing to pay for!

Lady Bug 2

2010-05-05T08:54:00.004-06:00

Last year, I found out that you can buy lady bugs from a nursery. I thought, why not buy some and take a few pictures. Simple enough! Lady bugs come in a package of 1500, and you keep in the fridge until you release them. The warmth in the house wakens the lady bug to activity. He/she, they start moving quickly. Some start to fly around after just a few minuets. The dozen or so I took out and place on flowers co-operated very little. They move fast. My wife was more co-operative than the lady bugs. She is not afraid of them, but I don't think she will let me choose another insect to photograph in the house. Though I have thought about it! She is supportive of my hobby but she will draw the line occasionally. These are shot using a 105mm macro lens, with my D200. I started using extension tubes but found it difficult with the lady bugs on the move. I will try the tubes on something else. I do have a few more to post, so check back in a few days.

Lady Bug

2010-05-02T22:06:00.004-06:00

More to come later. I have a few Lady Bugs to catch!

This Might Sting!

2010-04-28T09:36:00.000-06:00

I recently visited the doctor to have a mole removed. I was going to ask the doctor if I could take a picture, (the one you see is what I had in mind) he noticed I had a camera with me and asked if it was mine. This made it very easy to explain what I wanted to do. With his permission and one shot, literally and photographically, the mole was removed. If you get squeamish around needles I'm sorry. Some people are hysterically frightened by them! Are you one of those people?

Jumpin' A Volcano

2010-04-28T09:09:00.000-06:00

Here are the "volcano" shot I referred to in my last post. I believe this was a more frighting than jumping the "spine!" My brother-in-law cleared the entire structure, landing hard on the opposite side. (Top) To make it more fun, lets have him jump over a "sacrifice to the cement volcano!"

Jumpin' The Spine

2010-04-18T10:31:00.000-06:00

The "spine", skate park term, is the out cropping which the guy is lying down on. Both "spines" are reluctantly being jumped by my brother-in-law. Oh!, the crazy things I can talk him into doing! I caught him jumping a volcano too! I will post those later. D200, Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 lens, f/2.8, 1/1250 sec., ISO 100, Manual mode, cropping and a little correction of color.