ON THE PROWL

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Black-necked Stilts are among the most stately of the shorebirds, with long rose-pink legs, a long thin black bill, and elegant black-and-white plumage that make them unmistakable at a glance. When foraging, they can be observed walking slowly through wetlands in search of tiny aquatic prey. These birds are characterized as having the second-longest legs in proportion to their bodies of any bird, second only to the flamingo. The Black Necked stilt belongs to the same family as the American Avocet while residing in mainly warm climates in the west and south.

Black Necked Stilt



FRESHEN UP

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Today I focused back on product photography. Using a typical household item such as deodorant, the possibilities are endless. This photo was created using one speedlight with 2 images composited together. The first shot was the back light which was created with 2 grids placed on the speedlight for the tight round circle. The deodorant was shot with a speedlight and some black cards to block out unwanted light. The images were composited in photoshop for the final result. Unfortunately, there was some jaggedness on the text on the deodorant which was cleaned up as best as possible.

degree deodorant

THE COOLEST BIRD IN THE SOUTHWEST REGION

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Today’s photo is from one of my many recent trips to Arizona. As I am unable to travel, it;’s a good time to reminisce. This is a photo of Gambel’s Quail, named in honor of William Gambel, a 19th-century naturalist and explorer of the Southwestern United States. These non-migratory birds are surprisingly fast and are a pleasure to watch. They are rarely seen in flight and spend most of their time on the ground scurrying around the desert.  These are monogamous birds which rarely breed in colonies. . The female chicks which are precocial, leaving the nest with their parents within hours of hatching.

Gambel's Quail

IT'S HAPPY HOUR SOMEWHERE

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As another day goes by during lockdown, its time for another photo opportunity. I have always wanted to try photographing beverages and why not start with the proverbial wine bottle. I decided to purchase an inexpensive unknown brand rather than raiding my wife’s wine chiller as I was unsure how long this could take (ie. days?). After some trial and error, a series of photos were taken and composited in photoshop to create the final product. Sure, there are things that could be improved but overall I am quite satisfied for my first attempt. Unfortunately, this is not my beverage of choice so I will never know how it tastes.

Lindeman

UTILIZING MY DOWNTIME

As many of us are now are more or less sequestered in our home, we need to be creative finding activities to maintain our sanity during these trying times. As it is quite evident I will not be starting any Invisalign cases in the near future, I have decided to rediscover my passion for photography. I have decided to work on my product photography skills (ie. commercial) since being indoors is quite ideal for this genre of photography. I plan on photography one product per day with various twists, backgrounds, etc.

Today’s image is something quite simple as a kitchen staple - the fork. The beauty of this idea is we all have many products lingering around our house which can be showcased in a different light.

Strength in numbers

Strength in numbers

360 Degree Virtual Tours

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I have recently began working on creating 360 degree panoramic photography.  The type of virtual photography has many implications especially in the real estate and commercial markets.  These virtual tours allow real estate agents to showcase homes for clients without having to bring them out to the property only to discover it's not a good fit for the party involved.  These tours will allow clients to narrow down the applicable properties prior to meeting with the agent saving time for everyone involved.

On the commercial side, businesses can provide a virtual tour of their establishment so clients know what to expect prior to entering the business.  This can apply to car dealerships, dental offices, salons, banks, and everyone hoping to increase exposure to new customers.  This technology is in its early stages and will continue to grown and become a dominant force for years to come.

I plan on involving this service for clients looking to provide a more immersive three-dimensional experience rather than just the standard two-dimensional photographs. 

I have provided an example below.

 

THE CITY OF BRIDGES

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The city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania which happens to be the twentieth largest in the United States, has been appropriately referred to as the "Steel City" due to the fact that it is home to more than 300 steel-related businesses.  While this has been well publicized, many are not aware that the city of Pittsburgh has also been coined the "City of Bridges" due to the fact that it contains 446 bridges - the most of any city in the world...except Venice, Italy. 

Pittsburgh has also been a manufacturing giant of aluminum, glass, shipbuilding, sports, computing and electronics. The city houses world renowned medical and research centers, museums, and libraries along with a vibrant cultural scene as well as laying claim to having the most bars per capita in the United States. Some of the world's biggest names in tech have offices located here.

 

Pittsburgh is a palette begging for an artist with a brush. Photographers have endless opportunities to create a plethora of stunning imagery including but not limited to world class architecture and jaw dropping skylines. I look forward to returning to this wonderful city to bask in all its glory. 

PREPARING FOR BEACH SEASON

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As the brisk and chilling mornings soon become a memory, our thoughts lead back to warmer and happier times.  This comes from a trip I took last summer and imagine I will be revisiting this site in near future. Otsego Lake State Park is located up North near the sleepy Alpine Village of Gaylord, Michigan.

Sunset on Otsego Lake

Established as a state park in 1920, Otsego Lake State Park is shaded with large oak, maple and pine trees while spanning 62 acres and providing more than a half mile of sandy beach and large campgrounds near or within sight of the lake. Whether you want to absorb the rays while on the beach, catch some trout or camp out for the weekend, Otsego lake checks all the boxes for nice relaxing and serene weekend.

SEDONA'S FAVORITE GEM

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A small locale tucked away in Verde Valley, Arizona, Sedona is best known for its glorious red sandstone structure and mild year-round climate. The city sits 1372 above sea level providing some of the most marvelous views of all the existing nature and wilderness.

The most visited landmark in Sedona is Cathedral Rock which also happens to beone of the most photographed sites in America by enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Rock formations which change colors throughout the day are known to resemble a shrine. The area appeals to hikers and nature enthusiasts as well as the risk-takers who attempt to climb this gargantuan structure. Cathedral Rock is located in the Coconino National Forest in Yavapai County. Words simply cannot justify the vision that awaits anyone visiting this amazing landmark.

WALKING THE STRIP

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I recently traveled to Las Vegas for a long weekend of work-related events.  Although I had a detailed shot list for sites I wanted to photograph, reality left me with very little time to actually make images.  After completing my obligations, I headed out down the strip at 11:00 pm on a brisk and windy March night. As I walked around trying to capture the hustle and bustle of the Vegas Strip, I settled on an area with active traffic and a backdrop of hotels including Treasure Island, The Venetian and The Mirage.

Lighting up the Strip

The extended light trails lead the eye straight down the strip populated with gargantuan hotels filled with casinos, high-end retailers and countless five-star celebrity-owned restaurants.  This level of excess and grandeur can only be seen in aplace known appropriately as Sin City.

Anchors Away

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Today's photo comes from a photowalk with a group headed by Alanna St.Laurent in downtown Detroit.  We visited a few locations on a chilly winter evening to get some great night photographs of the Motor City.

The Princess riverboat cruises are generally 2-3 hours long, traveling from Hart Plaza to Belle Isle, and back. The boat hosts dinner cruises, fall color cruises, moonlight cruises and dinner cruises. The boat is available to book for private parties when you want to take it to the next level. This is something to consider during the dog days of summer for some great sunset shots of Detroit or when you are looking to make a serious splash for a special occasion .

WELCOME TO SHAWSHANK

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I recently traveled to Mansfield, Ohio with Thomas Nighswander of Michigan Photo Adventures and a group of photographers to tour the Mansfield Reformatory which was made famous by being the predominant location for the famous movie "The Shawshank Redemption".  The exterior represents a Romanesque style design with its castle-like appearance. 

The Mansfield Reformatory was constructed between the years of 1886 and 1910 and functioned as a full fledged prison until it was closed down by a federal court in 1990.  The historic prison has also been a venue for scenes in the movies Tango & Cash, Air Force One, as well as music videos by Godsmack and L'il Wayne.  

The original use of the reformatory was a training camp for Civil War Soldiers.  The construction of the institution was completed by well-known architect F.F Schnitzer whose name also appears on documents as a Superintendent.  The first group of prisoners were brought in from Columbus in 1896 and were immediately put to work on the prison sewer system.

Locked in

The East Cell block which is comprised of six tiers remains the largest cell block in the prison.

One door always leads to another.  The stairs though the door lead to what was once a church which now seems to be a fraction of what it once was.  Although there are areas of moderate dilapidation, the majority of the building is sound.

This area of worship barely resembles such an institution yet contains just enough artifacts to imagine what might have been here.

Pick a room - any room

The cells are open for viewing to imagine what the cramped living quarters might have been like.  This serves as a reminder is that there is always a price to pay and retribution has its purposes.  Unfortunately, these spartan conditions and tortuous lifestyle only lead to an inability to cope with society causing criminals to return after a short time.

This photo gives one an ideal of the amenities or lack thereof for one in such a situation.  The message here is for must of us, things are not that bad.  Then again, we didn't place ourselves in such a position to receive such accommodations.

Above is a birds eye view of a prison cell in the main cell block.  One can only imagine what a day in here would be like.

The cause of the reformatory shutting down in 1990 was due to a prisoners' class action lawsuit which claimed extreme overcrowding and inhumane conditions. 

These are the main stairs which greet the visitors beginning the tour.  The Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society is currently working to restore the prison to its original condition.  The repairs are completed by funding from the ongoing tours and various donations.  This place is definitely worth the drive and can be visited year round.

 

 

HANGING OUT IN BEANTOWN

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The city of Boston is a definite must see since it offers a multitude of activities which will please even those with the most discriminating tastes. History buffs can get lost for days on the Freedom Trail while reliving such as acts as the Boston Tea Party. Sports fans need to look no further than the one and only Fenway Park. Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options the city has to offer.

The Boston Skyline

As with any major city possessing a vibrant downtown scene comes the opportunity to photography the city skyline consisting of several tall and iconic buildings. One of the best  places to photograph the Boston skyline is Fan Pier Park. One thing to note is that some city cab drivers have no idea where this is so be sure bring additional information or there is no telling where you will end up. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way.

Omni Parker House Hotel

When in Boston, one must be sure to sample the legendary Boston Cream Pie at the Omni Parker House Hotel. This culinary delight is known as the official dessert of Massachusetts. 

Baseball fans will definitely stop by and experience the charm and history of the world renowned Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this place is virtually a way of life for Bostonians. During gamedays, the area around the park practically closes down due to the immense traffic situation. When the stadium is not being utilized, tours are offered which I hope to capitalize on during my next visit.

One final dining choice which must be made is that of the world renowned Lobster Roll which can be found at a plethora of establishments. Large chunks of Lobster in a mayonnaise based salad served on a roll. 

I greatly anticipate my return visit to this amazing city to continue my amazing experience.

 

CAN YOU SAY TRIDGE?

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Located in the heart of Midland, MI lies the Iconic "Tridge" which represents a three-way wooden bridge located at the junction of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee Rivers. The bridge consists of a 31 foot central pillar supporting three spokes which are each 180 feet long and 8 feet wide. 

The Tridge is one of the the city's main attractions and signifies the beginning of the Chippewa Trail. It also marks the origin of the Pere Marquette Rail Trail, a Michigan Rails to Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame Trail. This area is very active in the summer with it's nearby parks, farmers market, and evening concerts. A rather unique structure indeed which is best viewed at night while fully illuminated.

ALL ABOARD

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I recently visited the Jingle Rails Exhibit at the Eiteljorg Museum in downtown Indianapolis featuring numerous train layouts of famous landmarks made from materials such as moss, twigs, nuts, etc. Jingle Rails is a representation of the Real Great American West as well as an imaginary version. For those who grew up tinkering with model trains, you will greatly appreciate the attention to detail placed throughout this exhibit.

The exhibit features local Indianapolis treasures such as the Eiteljorg Museum and Lucas Oil Stadium.

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art

Lucas Oil field served as host to the Superbowl back in 2012 and continues as home of the NFL's Indianapolis Colts. Notice the great attention to detail with regards to the field surface inside.

Monument Circle celebrates the Holidays every year with a lighting ceremony that draws large volumes of people from miles and miles away.

The Indiana State Fair remains a staple in the fabric of Indiana Summers while entertaining large crowds every year.


Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota has been an iconic landmark since 1925 featuring the faces of former Presidents Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, and George Washington.

Old Faithful Geyser, the world's most famous Geyser located in Yellowstone National Park was named due to it's reliable ability to erupt every 65-92 minutes which still holds true today.

While in Yellowstone, why not stay at the Legendary Ahwahnee Hotel, which has seen countless celebrities throughout its long existence.

One last stop on this tour is the one and only Hoover Dam which sits on the Arizona-Nevada Border and takes in approximately 1 million visitors per year.

This is an exhibit that has been airing for the past six years around the Holidays and is definitely an attraction worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Indianapolis.

 

THE POWERS OF POST-PROCESSING

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As photographers, we are always told to capture the best images in camera followed by modest enhancements made in software to create the final masterpiece. As much as I subscribe to this theory, there are times when the conditions are simply not conductive to creating great content. This is when understanding how to unleash the creative powers of your post-processing software can salvage an image that might never see the light of day.

SOOC - Before    F14   40 sec   ISO 400  14mm

Case in point - I recently spent the Thanksgiving Holiday in Indianapolis with my wife at the JW Marriott Hotel which was constructed at the request of the NFL prior to hosting the 2012 Superbowl. Unfortunately, mother nature was unaware of my arrival and did not choose to cooperate but I managed to make a few images while dodging the raindrops. The extremely overcast conditions provided very poor light leaving nothing worthwhile to be immediately captured. Observing the abundance of cloud cover, I decided to apply a 10 stop ND filter to capture a long exposure. The lack of any gaps in the clouds provided very little contrast thereby failing to reveal any streaking during the 40 second exposure. Not to mention the movement of the clouds was very slow.  Now time to make a decent photograph from this mediocrity. 

The image was imported into lightroom CC and converted to black and white. Mild sharpening and noise removal were done and then imported into photoshop. After duplicating the layer, a selection was made around the clouds using the quick selection tool. The clouds were then placed on their own layer. Using the path blur tool, the cloud streaks were made more distinctive and angled for better orientation with the building. The exposure was lowered to bring out more details in the clouds. After saving the image back into lightroom, some dodging and burning was done to create more contrast while completing the image with a heavy vignette.