My girl and I had a free day, so we decided to check out Springs Preserve. We had heard a lot about it, and we had been wanting to see what it was all about. I knew they had a Butterfly Exhibit, but as I looked on the Web for info, I found that it was only at certain times of the year. So we wanted to make sure that we went during that season. In the next few paragraphs, I want to tell you about Springs Preserve and introduce my Springs Preserve Collection here as well.
Springs Preserve - Introduction
Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution designed to commemorate the dynamic history of Las Vegas and to provide a vision for a sustainable future. The Preserve features museums, galleries, outdoor concerts and events, colorful botanical gardens, and an interpretive trail system that meanders through a scenic wetland habitat. In 1978 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Springs Preserve is located approximately three miles west of downtown Las Vegas. It is referred to as the birthplace of Las Vegas and represents one of the richest and most unique cultural and biological resources in Southern Nevada.
Checking It Out - Some Things to Consider
The thing we found right off the bat was that if you don't arrive right when they open you will never get to see everything. Since we got there in the later part of the morning we decided that we would get a general look around and see what we absolutely wanted and then come back. We have that option since we live here; however, if you are wanting to make it all happen in one day, get there early.
Take a Look at the Springs Preserves Collection from Dirk D Myers Photography
You really should catch breakfast or lunch at the Springs Cafe. It's delicious. You have options of eating inside or outside. We stayed inside because the day was pretty warm. The food is very good and it was certainly more than we expected from park food.
The Origin Museum was very interesting. There are several exhibits located within that building. The movie showing the story of the Hoover Dam was very interesting. We really enjoyed the Flash Flood Exhibit and it's one of their most popular exhibits. There are a lot of things to walk through and see. When you think about it, there are a lot of people living in a desert city, and there is a very real delicate balance involved in making sure there are enough resources to make that possible. Nevada has made sure that very little water here goes to waste.
The Butterfly Habitat - Nature's Showcase
I am not sure what my obsession with all things with wings is, but this was something I wanted to see. My girl is a little less interested in flying bugs, but she was a trooper and walked through it with me. To her credit, she didn't swat any of them. Yes, there was that concern.
The Butterfly Habitat is open every Fall and Spring and is a showcase of some of the most beautiful butterflies that are indigenous to this area, as well as South and Central America. The butterfly pictured above is the Zebra Longwing, and the other in the bush is known as Julia. I was at the habitat later in the season and I was told that there were only a couple of
weeks left as they just don't live through the warmer and colder climates. Catching this Exhibit in the first few weeks is likely to provide the largest amount of butterflies.
I have several shots of this and many other butterflies in my Springs Preserve Collection for you to take a look at. All of my images are shot in large format and are suitable for large-sized prints on paper, canvas, metal, or many other forms. If you don't see a size or material you'd like an image in, please feel free to contact me.
It's Worth the Trip
I know that people say that Vegas isn't the most family-friendly place in the world, but Springs Preserve is definitely an exception. It's a very popular location for educational tours of all ages. It really opens your eyes to a side of Las Vegas and its desert community that you don't often think about.
If you have visited Springs Preserve I would love to hear your feedback. Please feel free to drop a comment below. As always, thanks so much for taking the opportunity to read and check out my work!
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We love Vegas! So, if you are looking for a review you just got your spoiler right there. My fiance and I have been to Vegas twice together. The images I have here are from the second visit, but any information I will give you will be combined from both experiences.So many people have told us that a week is far too long to stay in Vegas at one time. I think a lot of that depends on why you are there. We are not really much for gambling but we found plenty to do each time we were there. I will take an opportunity to share some of our favorite spots. There is SO MUCH to do in Vegas that doesn't include gambling.
The Golden Nugget
We had such a great experience at the Golden Nugget the first time, and so, we decided to stay there again. Since we were already Landry's Select Club members there is a discount at the hotel for your stay. That is also a head's up that there are a lot of their great restaurants as well that you will have to enjoy.
We stayed in the RUSH Tower the last time we were there. The room was super comfortable. We were on the Fremont Street side which means that the party was going on late outside on the street, but that has never been an issue for us. If it would have been uncomfortable, the complimentary earplugs would have helped. I will say that if you are wanting to see onto Fremont at night you really can't do that because of all of the street side refacing, and the light show rooftop. This pretty much encloses Fremont Street from all that is around it. You will hear the party but you won't see the party.
Downtown vs The Strip
I am going to have to say that this argument seems to show up on every Vegas discussion board on Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, or anywhere else that Vegas is a topic. The truth is, it really depends on your interest. You are going to see from me a pretty large lean into the Fremont camp simply because the non-stop carnival and live entertainment are what we prefer. Since you know that, you will see a lot of this blog will be based on Fremont. I will, however, not exclude activities on The Strip that we have been a part of. The thing is, we prefer to stay and play on Fremont but we Uber or drive to The Strip on occasion for special events and side trips.
>>Check out the Vegas Collection by Dirk D Myers Photography Here <<
The Party On Fremont Street
If the idea of a non-stop carnival of people from all walks of life getting together for a drink and a show sounds like a good time to you then Fremont Street is perfect for you! A five-block stretch of Fremont Street was closed in 1994 to create what is now known as The Fremont Street Experience and has become one of the largest parties every day and night in Las Vegas.
There is a stage on almost every block featuring great Bands, and DJs that are not only local but many internationally known artists perform on Fremont Street.
The area is called "Glitter Gulch" for a reason, and it sure lives up to that name well. You will run into thousands of people nightly openly carrying a beer or cocktail obtained by one of the many bars along either side of the street.
Don't Miss These
There are some things I wouldn't miss if I were you. I found that both times I was there, these spots have an atmosphere and experience that are unlike the rest.
Banger Brewing - Dirk D Myers Photography
Is Craft Beer your thing? Even if you are a bit of a beer snob Banger Brewing was one of our favorite spots on Fremont. Try the Jalapeno Heffe. It is crisp, and delicious with a bit of a hint of the pepper. I can't promise you won't get a little addicted to the taste, and you will likely crave nachos or tacos. We really were glad we found this place early on the first time we visited because they were able to give us amazing recommendations of other things to check out while in the area. They have a great Happy Hour a few times in the day as well as great community events. It's well worth your time.
One of their recommendations is a spot we are so glad we found. Believe me, if we were just walking by the spot we would have probably missed it. Carson Kitchen is a restaurant, unlike anything we have ever really experienced. You walk in off the street and are immersed into a bit of a Contemporary Urban atmosphere with dishes that you really won't find anywhere else. Unless you have food allergies you are not going to want to tweak their original flavors. They need to be experienced just the way they are created. This place is fun and quite unique. You need to do this - Trust me.
Container Park in the Heart of Las Vegas - Dirk D Myers PhotographyMantis at Container Park
Another area I recommend is Container Park. In the heart of Las Vegas, at one end of the Fremont Street Experience, you will see a glowing Mantis. Step closer and witness a whole retail and dining experience that won't remind you of anything you have ever been to. This is something you can bring your kids to and there is plenty for them to do. The use of Containers around the park is something you need to witness, it's pretty amazing. Live Entertainment, Great Food, and Fun for Everyone await you when you visit the park. Check their website for specials for locals and guests new to the area.
Some other things you should check out are the Mob Museum (Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like), and Hogs and Heifers Saloon. They are both in close proximity to one another and so you could package the experiences. One will give you a great introduction to the Mob influence that helped to add to the story of Las Vegas while the other is a great place to kick back with drinks and great food. Stay alert, the barmaids will likely start harassing you (in a great way) from the moment you arrive. Both places are a great time for entirely different reasons.
Fremont Street has so much to offer, and these are some special spots we found that I felt needed to be shared.
>>Check out the Vegas Collection by Dirk D Myers Photography Here <<
Fun On The Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is widely known for its large concentration of Resort Hotels surrounded by Restaurants and Attractions that would be hard to visit in a lifetime. Whether it is the palatial grandeur of Caesars Palace or the unique architecture of The Luxor there is something for every taste and imagination on The Strip.
For a photographer, everywhere you point your camera is a potential masterpiece. Bring lots of batteries, because you are going to burn through them.
To add to all of the amazing things there are to do on the Strip, entertainment of all kinds is showcased in so many live venues. The cool thing about Vegas is there is something for everyone to fill your eyes and senses. I will have to say that our favorite performances came from Michael Buble at the T Mobile Arena. However, we have seen some great shows including Blue Man Group, Zumanity, Ray Romano, and David Spade. Like the rest of Vegas, it seems there will be more shows than anyone has days to see them.
Something For Everyone
Las Vegas is an amazing place with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a photographer or simply on vacation, you'll have plenty to keep you entertained. They call the area "Sin City" but it really is what you make of it.
Please feel free to share some of your favorite stories and favorite places from your Vegas visit in the comments wherever you see this article. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks for taking the time to check this out, and hopefully you have had the opportunity to check out my Vegas Photo Collection as well. If you have enjoyed this please feel free to pass it along for others to see. I would certainly appreciate it!
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Until now, all of my posts have been based on destinations. I have done a lot of event gigs, and actually, that is part of the story of how I met this band the first time. Paralandra was playing a club I was doing some marketing and photography for, and they struck a chord with me. There was something about their talent that caught my attention. It made me want to find out more. They released their first full-length album last week called "Street Magic". It just seemed like the perfect time to do something new with my posts. I like to think I am more than a one-trick pony.
Music of Toda
There are some genres of music that have stood the test of time. I love crooners and there is something about the music of Sinatra and Martin that transcends generations. Since I never had the opportunity to see them live, when I had the opportunity to see Michael Buble I jumped at the chance. He makes the music of Frank and Dean seem fresh again and his originals give us a new taste of the old style.
I see Paralandra much the same way. This band has the chops to cover Heart or Rush so well, but their original music pierces the barrier of time in a hard-driving fashion that lets you know Rock music is alive and well. In a generation of music that is really void of a ton of creativity and originality, Paralandra pounds home a beat that makes you want to shine your lights in the air craving more!
The Road for Paralandra
Parents make sacrifices for their kids, and many times those sacrifices are well worth it. Paul Carson chose to be a father and develop his career in a way that didn't have him on the traditional rocker's path. As time passed, he realized exactly how special that would become, because now he stands alongside his daughter, Casandra, with the band Paralandra. Rounding out this powerful display of hair and heavy metal flair is Sawyer Rikard on bass and Dakota Watson on drums.
Grinding it out and perfecting their art in local gigs worked into larger crowds further away from home. They have worked with amazing bands like Yngwie Malmsteen, Tantric, Saliva, Alter Bridge, Disturbed, and Breaking Benjamin. They have played festivals like Rocklahoma, DirtFest, Rock Fest, the NAMM Show, SXSW, and the Kiss Kruise.
See info about the History of Paralandra here
I have had the opportunity to shoot photos and videos of them in the past. They are such an exciting band to work with. I will include a link to one of my favorite videos. I like this one because they were working some of their newer stuff into their sets. You can hear some songs on their new album.
A Video of Paralandra in Branson, Missouri
Street Magic Album Release Party
Their new album, "Street Magic" dropped on October 22nd, and they celebrated in strong fashion at The Riff in Springfield, Missouri. Getting things fired up, Etched in Embers and The Many Colored Death opened the evening.
Paralandra said that they loved playing The Riff for the party because they started right there, so it seemed fitting to have this special night there. They played EVERY song on their new album, and it was so cool to hear all of the amazing cuts live.
Street Magic is available wherever you stream music. You can also order a CD by clicking here! The same day they released the album they let a new video fly as well. To conclude I will leave you with the link to that video, "For the Record", for you to enjoy. If you are looking for new music, and you love original tracks, you want to fill your ears with this band!
Check out the Video from Paralandra - For The Record
Please feel free to leave comments and questions below. Do you have a favorite song? Leave a comment. I am looking forward to hearing what you think.
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We had been home long enough. I haven't been on the coast in far too long, and a vacation was long overdue. I hadn't been to Myrtle Beach or any beach where the sun rose over the water. Every other beach I have put my feet on has been on the West Coast. We booked the vacation and spent the weeks prior to taking off researching what we would like to see and do while we were there. I don't know about you, but one of our favorite things is seeing what we have to look forward to. We like to call it "Vacation Foreplay".
I also got a new camera to add to my arsenal. I purchased a Nikon Z6, and I was very excited to use this opportunity to break it in. The purchase also qualified me to join Nikon's Professional Services group. Since I love Nikon's cameras, I'm glad to have that additional designation.
We were excited about how close the airport was to the beach. We also found that since there was a gas shortage up the entire east coast, finding transportation that week would be a challenge. Uber was more difficult to get and expensive to obtain compared to usual rates. Lyft was impossible to book rides through.
The only other challenge we ran into was the hotel we stayed at. The Windsurfer hotel was a great location. However, their COVID policies came with a lack of actual cleaning of the room throughout the week. They would put towels at our door, but they refused to clean each day. The cost remained the same, which we found very frustrating. While we will go back to Myrtle, we wouldn't likely ever recommend the Windsurfer to anyone or ever stay there again.
It All Starts With an Amazing Sunrise
As I mentioned earlier, this was the first time I had vacationed on a beach where the sunrise happens over the water. I am a bit of a night owl so adjusting my schedule happened. I am so glad I did. It was an amazing sight to see.
See My Myrtle Beach Collection Here
The beach was beautiful! The Boardwalk on the Beach is a great way to get along the beach on foot. If you are wanting to see the essential beachfront this is an excellent way to do it.
We did find that we wanted water shoes of some kind to walk on the beach proper. The reason why is because there are a lot of shells along the beach. If you collect shells, you can join the large number of folks that go out early in the morning to hunt for shells.
Along with the amazing scenic beachfront, there are piers that you can stroll and enjoy. Two spots we totally enjoyed on their piers were Pier 14 and Wicked Tuna. Both are excellent spots to eat; you really need to check them out. Pier 14 was the first location we ate at and really enjoyed the food. I also realized that Yuengling is flowing there and throughout much of The Grand Strand. My opinion is that delicious beer from America's oldest brewery should be everywhere. Wicked Tuna is a more Fine Dining concept that serves a delicious house-crafted menu filled with amazing cocktails, tapas, and entrees. The seafood was delicious everywhere I was dining! It's so nice to be somewhere that the fish is fresh!
Getting Out and About
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans field is a must-see. Whether you are an avid baseball fan or simply enjoy the occasional game you will find this a really good time. I am a Cubs fan, so finding that they are a Minor League Cubs affiliate was a great touch. I was able to get a couple of great seats behind the dugout to set my cameras in front of me and get some great shots while watching an awesome game.
We went to Broadway on the Beach, a great mall that is located in the open near the ballpark. Until I researched it I thought it might be a theater district. It wasn't. It was a good time nonetheless. There was a great restaurant there called Melt; it was a perfect place to get hot sandwiches and a cold beer. On our only chilly day, it was just what we needed.
Another great spot to stop and eat is The Bowery. We ate lunch there one of the first days. When we found out that they had live music, we knew we would be back on one of the weekend evenings we were in town.
The Bowery is also the bar in which the Country Supergroup Alabama started. They played there for tips in the beginning stage of their band's development. I had my camera out at lunch and talked to a guy, named Mike, that I didn't know was the manager. He was super cool. When we showed up on the weekend I had a camera bag on my back. When the security guy was about to turn me away (which is completely understandable) Mike showed up and recognized me. They let me in with my bag. I got the opportunity to take some pictures of their house band "The Bounty Hunters". It was a great night, and he purchased some of my edited shots. If you want a great time, The Bowery is a place you need to visit in Myrtle Beach!
One other great spot we visited was the Myrtle Beach Aquarium. It was an
amazing spot to spend a chilly afternoon. Strangely, there was that one day that was unseasonably cool, so this gave us something to do inside. There is a lot of indigenous fish and the Sting Rays and Sharks were pretty cool. The exhibits were all so beautiful and well-kept. The whole family would enjoy the visit.
Check out My Myrtle Beach Collection
The unique part of the week that we were there is it was also one of many Bike Weeks hosted by Myrtle Beach. Riders from all over came to Myrtle Beach and with that came a whole lot of cool motorcycles. In addition to their daily activities, they also did night cruises. I was able to get some great shots of some amazing machines.
Perfect for Photographers and Vacationers
There was something to do for everyone at Myrtle Beach! It has a really cool old town vibe with new aspects that adds a twist to the scene. It is also a great place for photographers because there is so much variety in the area. There are a lot of spots we didn't get to that we would like to visit the next time.
As far as the new Nikon Z6? I love it! It's going to be a nice everyday addition to work alongside the D5600 in projects. I am looking forward to playing with the 4K video capability in the near future. I haven't run into any real limitations yet. I will keep you posted.
As always, if you like something you see or have any questions please contact me. My prints are for sale via digital download as well as prints.
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With Covid being an issue right now, traveling is affected. That was the case on our last trip together. Kat, my fiance, spent some time out west with her family in California. I flew out and we hit the road together to take in some nature while on the way back to Missouri. Since there was so much that wasn't open inside, we decided to work in a primarily outdoor trip on our vacation this time. We planned to work in three National Parks in 4 days. With Yosemite, Death Valley, and The Grand Canyon fairly close to each other, we figured we could do that with enough time to take in the beauty of each park We knew there would be some limitations because of the pandemic but we came with the mindset that we would enjoy what we could without being totally bummed out over the the things we couldn't. We weren't wrong, but it wasn't as restrictive as we imagined.
The other issue we encountered was the fires that were burning throughout California. There was evidence of the residue in the air, but it didn't make Yosemite any less beautiful. This was something that really concerned us. We considered canceling the trip. I am really glad we didn't. It was truly incredible.
We decided to spend a couple of days in Yosemite. We also realized that with COVID we would have to reserve a spot early and that was part of what made us think about canceling. If we booked weeks out, we didn't know how the fires or the pandemic would alter things. All I can say is that we were there at a very good time. The weather was nice and there wasn't a lot of haze in the air. It was magnificent.
We booked a room at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. Knowing how big the park is, we knew we would never see it all in one day. Even with a day and a half we really only were able to touch on the most popular spots.
There were some restrictions as far as the park was concerned. Like I said, we had to reserve a spot since reservations were limited. The park was still very busy even with those restrictions. By and large, they figured out ways to distance and made the process as comfortable as possible.
We were told the best time to be in Yosemite is around the Spring. The run off from the snow creates some amazing waterfalls. However, there was very little we missed out on going in the fall. The water may not have run as strongly, but it was still so amazing to see.
I will have to say I am totally amazed by Yosemite. The majestic mountain formations were unlike anything I have ever seen before. Looking out at Half Dome from any angle is a completely different experience. Every spot
reeveals how immense the expanse around it really is. Then looking up from the base of El Capitan, I am amazed at how tall these formations really are. I have seen a lot of mountain ranges and formations, every spot has its beauty, but there is something very special about Yosemote.
Just Go Experience It
I can tell you that Yosemite is a photographer's dream and how amazing this location really is, but unless you experience this for yourself, my descriptions fall short. There are people that will tell you that their wilderness is the most beautiful, but I will tell you that you can truly never appreciate how wonderful this country really is unless you go out and see it.
There are a lot of people that want to lock you down right now, but the truth is, the best thing you can do for yourself is to get outside and experience nature. There is no better time to pick up a camera, or even your phone.
Go out there and get into the amazing world that is around you.
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We have so many places that we want to visit in the United States in our lifetime. Knowing that there will probably not be enough time to get to everything, something has to be quite special for us to return. Avila is one of those locations. My fiance introduced me to it and I am sure we will be back many times. It really is amazing.
This old beach town was affected by oil contamination several years back. The beach was completely dug out and replaced and the town was renovated. This created a town that looks like it is relatively new even though it has been around since the middle 1900s. While it has an existing fishing community, most of the revenue for the area comes from tourism. For a photographer, it is an amazing spot to shoot photos. One of my favorite things about West Coast beaches is the sunsets they feature.
Read About The History of Avila
Where We Stay
When we're in Avila, we stay at The Inn on Avila Beach. They are located right on the beach and the rooms overlooking the water are fantastic! The sliding glass doors open right to the water and the sounds of waves are often the sound we go to sleep and wake up to every day. The amenities are great! They know how to take care of you. Their complimentary bikes get you around the area, and they have plenty of beach swag when you want to get out on the sand. You can also start each day with breakfast provided by Joe Mamma's Coffee on the rooftop. They also provide a happy hour that is second to none at any hotel or resort in the area. At the end of each evening, they serve delicious desserts in their downstairs community room. They truly understand hospitality.
Things To Do
In addition to the amazing shopping, Avila has become a prime location for sampling shops of delicious area wineries. We try to stop at Peleton and Alapay Cellars each visit. They are both perfect spots to sit back, sip a glass or two, and relax.
The shops are also awesome! There are lots of places to find souvenirs, but also most beach gear is available if you forgot your trunks or flip flops. I know, because I forgot my flips one time and I found the most comfortable pair in a shop that I still wear to this day.
The restaurants in the area are very nice as well. I like seafood, but my girl prefers land-dwelling fare. We have found so many places that we love. My girl's favorite spots is probably Brad's, in nearby Pismo. They have incredible ribs! For me, if I am looking for something casual, you have to have the Clam Chowder at Splash. If you want a beautiful spot to take in something closer to Fine Dining, I would recommend Custom House. There is something for everyone to eat in Avila, and it's wonderful!
A Photographers Paradise
There are so many things to do in Avila, and everything is a photo op. I am totally not kidding! There are several piers for you to walk along. Along with the pier at Avila Beach, San Luis Obispo Port and Pismo Beach are right there for you to take advantage of.
Check out My Avila Collection Here
The Central Coast Aquarium is amazing and you should check it out. See and touch the creatures that are indigenous to the area. If you have looked over any of my collections you know I find myself drawn to birds. My fiance teases me about it all the time. I like to catch things in motion. That is happening all around you in Avila.
If you are looking for a beach community on the West Coast to vacation in, then I would certainly recommend Avila Beach. I know we will be back, probably a few times. Please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions about the area. We love talking about our favorite spots on the planet. I look forward to hearing from you. Please check out my Avila Collection as well. That group of images is likely to grow as well. There are many beautiful images to choose from, and I would appreciate your support.
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We wanted to take a short trip to the beach but in February the options for beaches in the United States aren't as vast as in Spring and Summer months. Neither of us had been to South Padre Island, so that became the place we decided to get away to for a week.
We decided to fly in since we wanted to spend more of our week on the beach rather than on the road. We flew into Brownsville, Texas, and then took an UBER 45 minutes to the Island. It was such a beautiful sight going over the causeway to the island. An amazing transition into our vacation. When we arrived at the La Copa Inn, we were greeted by great staff and our room was large and beautiful. Our view looked over the pool area and out into the ocean. Even though it was a little cloudy and blustery that day, the sound of the waves was music to the ears.
Once we got stuff settled into the room we do as we always do; headed out to the beach for an initial walk. One thing my girl noticed was how the roar of the ocean seemed much stronger here. Where we stay in California most often, the beach is in more of a cove, so there is more of a cadence to the waves. In SPI, there is more of a constant roar. It really is magnificent.
The scenery at South Padre Island is incredible! If you have seen any of my shots in the past you will know I love birds and wildlife. There is no shortage on the island.
We really enjoyed the Birding and Nature Center as well as the Gator Sanctuary There are so many species of birds. There are great trails throughout the area to walk and see all of the beauty that unveils before your eyes.
Enjoy the South Padre Island Collection
They also have a Sea Turtle Rescue that is amazing as well. Turtles that have been injured are rescued and rehabilitated there. While everyone cheers when rehabbed turtles can be released, some turtles are permanent residents because for one reason or another they are unable to return to their natural habitat. One of these turtles lost three flippers and they created a special prosthetic limb that gave this turtle the ability to swim in a straight line. It was pretty awesome to see the care that goes into helping these beautiful creatures.
You will see examples of all of these animals in my SPI collection.
Port Isabel is an amazing place to visit! It is on the other side of the causeway and is accessible by using the Free Trolley that runs throughout the island and surrounding areas. On a side note, we used the trolley daily and it was an easy way to get around. Did I also mention that it was free?
In Port Isabel, we visited the lighthouse. It's so beautiful to see and once you trek up the winding staircase, the view is amazing from the top. All of the surrounding areas are visible on a clear day. You can also see a view of the Island itself. Also, we walked through the area cemetery but we check out cemeteries most everywhere we go. You will see in the collection that the colors of the decorated graves were radiant. It's quite obvious that folks remember their family members and friends that have passed on. Check out the fishing pier as well. It's a relaxing walk full of spectacular views and so many things to see.
If I remember correctly we were able to purchase a pass that got us into the lighthouse and a couple of museums. It was well worth the visit.
We ate at Joe's in Port Isabel, it's a seafood market and restaurant. I enjoyed my meal. My Fiance doesn't eat seafood but there was plenty for her to choose from as well.
Since I brought up food, we ate at many terrific places in SPI that will appease every appetite. If you are a beer fan, the Padre Island Brewing Company is a great place to land. The beer choices were great and I enjoyed the Oysters as well. Another evening we went to Blackbeard's where the portions are huge, and you could easily split plates. I have to say that our favorite spot was definitely Louie's Backyard. The food and atmosphere were so fantastic we ate there twice. We thought about trying something new on our last night, but the sunset off the patio was so amazing at Louie's we just had to go back. You can see those sunset shots in my Sunset on South Padre Island Collection. That was so lovely I created a collection exclusively featuring that sunset.
Catch the Sunset on South Padre Island Collection.
If you are looking for nightlife then you can go right next door from Louie's to Coconut Jack's. That place was a lot of fun! They had live music and it was packed with folks just singing along and tipping back cold drinks. We had an amazing week!
There are so many great things to do on South Padre Island I would recommend it to anyone. If you are a photographer, it's an awesome destination to shoot. We would certainly go back.
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Since I started shooting images professionally, Kat has used the Roadtrippers
site to help find places to shoot. When we were driving up the west coast through Northern California, Oregon, and Washington, we ran into so many breathtaking spots one of our days we only drove 138 miles. Honestly, along the coast of Oregon, it's so amazing I could have spent many more hours there taking in the natural beauty God Created. The day we went to Seattle we stopped in the morning at a spot called Tumwater Falls Park and it was a treasure trove of fascinating wonders. I got so many beautiful shots there.
See the Tumwater Falls Collection
The most ambitious project undertaken by the Olympia Tumwater Foundation (OTF) was construction in 1962 of a 15-acre park along the falls of the Deschutes River. Still owned and maintained by OTF, Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Read more about the OTF and Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls
I can honestly say that the Roadtrippers app has led us to some great places, but as far as a spot for photographers, this is a gold mine! The trails were so beautiful. One of our favorite spots was a fall where salmon would throw themselves up over during the spawning season. To get a shot of
them in mid-air was a challenge. If you stay in one place long enough chances are you'll be successful.
This is a great spot for the whole family. If you are on a date, this provides a ton of options for you to enjoy. Located next to and above the park is The Falls Terrace Restaurant and it is really a great spot to gather. I believe I had the opportunity to sip on an Olympia beer with appetizers. There were other choices, but it just seemed right considering we were at the site of the old Olympia brewery.
I loved my trip up through the Northwestern states, but this stop was certainly one of my favorites. Make sure you have an extra camera battery charged and an empty memory card because there is a good chance you will need them.
If you have been to the park or anywhere in the Downtown area there please feel free to comment about your favorite locations. Whether you are a photographer or not it would be nice to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share links of pictures you might see in the Tumwater Falls Collection. Feedback is always appreciated.
*Note* If you are reading this before Phase 3 of the COVID recovery the park will not be open. I believe you can check their Facebook page to get full details.
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I have lived in a lot of places. I have never been anywhere longer than I have lived in the Branson area. There are a lot of people that think I missed out on things because I lived in the Tri-Lakes area for about 25 years. Personally, I don't see it that way.
Growing up in the Southwest United States, I got used to a more fast-paced atmosphere. Arizona was a great place to grow up. I loved living in Mesa. I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. I went to college in Southern California. My education and living in Fullerton opened my eyes to things, however, I wouldn't have wanted to learn anywhere else. Living in Louisiana was awesome. The people, the food, and the lifestyle is something I look back on fondly.
In addition to my degree in Psychology and Music, I also minored in Religious Studies. I remember talking about early missionaries and why they ran into problems trying to work with other nationalities. The idea of immersing yourself in someone's culture is essential if you want to get someone to respect and pay attention to what they are saying. Part of the push back from those that the missionary encountered usually involved the stranger trying to change them instead of learnin
g to accept them. I think one of the things that I like about myself is that I have become pretty good at diving into the surrounding atmosphere and culture of an area that I am in and learning to appreciate the aspects of life in that particular place. In management, if someone doesn't see you pick up a mop they aren't as likely to do it when you ask them to. This tangent gets us to the thought that Branson is unlike anywhere I have lived before.
I can honestly say that Branson, Missouri is unlike any place I have lived before. There is something about Branson that makes one think of a time gone by. People are often more likely to say hello to you. When a flag flies and the National Anthem plays, those passing by are a little more likely to stop and give reverence to the moment. The community might seem like a bit of a throwback, but in today's world, I find that really refreshing.
We are living in a time where so many people are fighting with each other over the color of skin, or lifestyle decisions. There are people that will say that Branson should be more progressive and emulate the cities where many of these folks come from. I'd like to suggest that Branson has become the third-largest drive-to destination for vacationers because Branson is something they wish they had where they live. Branson is popular because it seems a little more like a
land that time forgot. I think that we should embrace that wholesome naivety instead of trying to wake it up.
I love the way the shows in Branson smack of "Dad Jokes" and "Slapstick Comedy". Again, this is a reflection of when things were funny because they made you laugh. The comedy of today seems to be more of an assault on what you find to be the most obscene. Branson doesn't need to have stage shows that are more "woke"; talent doesn't need to be judged on how much it makes you cringe. I think people need to be careful what they wish for. If Branson is just like everyone else then no one will need Branson anymore. There's nothing wrong with freshening up a script. People are still coming to Branson to see the shows. Better doesn't mean it has to be more edgy.
The heritage of Branson is rich with stories passed on and then written down. People have been coming to this area because of the tales of the people and the hospitality. After people visited, many decided to settle in the area to bask
in the area. There is something special about the people who live here. I dare say there is an energy here that is addictive.
As a photographer, Branson is an incredible place to create images. There are so many amazing colors and variations. Whether I am taking pictures at the lake or shooting a live music show there is never a dull moment and beauty is everywhere.
I have a couple of collections I shot on and near Lake Taneycomo. Please check out Birds of Lake Taneycomo and A Walk Along Lake Taneycomo.
I am thankful that I live in Branson, Missouri. I like the fact that things are a little more simple. I am happy to be a part of a community where people still care about their neighbors. I love working with companies that are locally owned and operated and are invested in the community. The world needs a little more Branson in their lives.
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Seattle was another location I haven't been to since I was in Jr. High or High School. I remembered a few things about it, but I can honestly say that it was so much better to visit Seattle, Washington as an adult. It's also a great city to shoot pictures. This was going to be a city we decided to do in a day and a half. That turned into a two-night stay, simply because of how spectacular the area was, It was worth every minute and I hope that it is someplace we will visit again at some point.
I guess I would describe the city as timeless. What I mean is there is a real modern feel, but at the same time there is a bit of a nod to the past in many places we visited. I can't say that there was any part of Seattle that disappointed us. Even some of the most mundane things, in the eyes of some folks, appeared so fresh in our eyes. Living in a smaller semi-rural city like Branson, big cities are something we find to be incredibly breathtaking.
it was my Fiance's birthday and I wanted to take her out someplace special for dinner, but after checking into our hotel we wanted to see the Space Needle. We could see it in the distance, so we decided we would walk. Well, it's really big and so we didn't actually realize how far away it was. I remember both of us being pretty tired and hungry by the time we got there. It was dark by now and when we got to the Space Needle box office we found it was closed in the viewing area for a private party, Yes, I am a great planner - not.
So, we took this opportunity to look in the gift shop then head back to the Hotel. The image you see of the Space Needle here was probably one of my favorite shots on the trip. I just loved the way all the lights played together through the trees. It was surprising how majestic the Space Needle appeared. As we walked back we couldn't find a lot open because it had gotten pretty late. We wandered into a Mexican Tapas restaurant and found out they were closing. Just before our heart sank too far, they told us they had a Bourbon Tavern out back called Branchwater. If it had been my Birthday that would have been perfect, but it was hers. They assured me they would have tapas and many other drinks to choose from. Branchwater was great. The atmosphere was dark and cozy and had a modern yet rustic feel. We had a green bean and bacon skillet light plate as well as some meatballs. It was delicious and the drinks were very good as well.
It was perfect as we had wanted to get back and get some sleep because tomorrow would be a full day. We took in the 17th-floor view for a bit and settled in. The Warwick Hotel was amazing. There was a small balcony terrace that provided amazing views of the city around us.
When we woke up, we headed to our first destination, Pike's Market. The other nice feature about the Warwick was that the hotel was centrally located and we could walk to most of our destinations. Pike's Market was the one location I remembered going to when I was young. The wonder of Pike's Market didn't go away as an adult either. It was really amazing experiencing the activity happening all around us.
Watching them throw the fish to one another was crazy, but they were amazing to watch. As you look through my collection you will see I took pictures of the flower vendors, and fruit and vegetable stands as well. The whole scene was like being a part of a movie. We loved it.
After the market, we went to the Seattle Aquarium. It was really cool to see all the sea life that they displayed. There were even areas where we could touch some of the coral and such. The many variations of color were what I found most striking.
We went from there to the Space Needle. The view from the top was incredible. We were afraid we would build it up too much, but there was no way that was possible. As you can see from the images I posted it was simply fantastic.
The Space Needle pass came with tickets to other museums and attractions in the area. We were surrounded by beautiful glass structures and inside each museum, there were so many things to look at. We definitely got the most out of that day. By the time the attractions had closed, a light mist was falling so we took an Uber back to the Hotel. It was, indeed, a fun-filled day.
Seattle is someplace everyone should see, and I hope you enjoy this collection of my favorite images from the trip. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to drop them below and I will certainly get back to you.
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I got the opportunity to see San Francisco for the second time in my life last April around this time of year. My Fiance and I were going out to spend some time with her oldest son who lives in the area. I was so excited because the last time I had been there was when I was in Junior High. Anyone that knows Kat and I very well knows that if there is a city with a history that includes museums and a cemetery we will jump at the chance to get there. The fact that her son knew the area was even better. It was something we were really looking forward to.
I want to preface this by saying that we had heard some horror stories about how dirty and crime-ridden the city had become and that had been on our minds as well. I was hoping that it wasn't going to be something I built up as a wide-eyed teen and it was going to just let me down later. We stuffed that in our expectations as well to temper the excursions so that we wouldn't get too excited. We knew we might just really hate it.
We had plans to be there a few days, and we had shows scheduled as well. One evening, we were to be joined by Kat's youngest son, and soon to be wife, for dinner and a show. I was in Musical Theatre for years, and couldn't be more excited about the fact that we had shows scheduled for each night. I seem to have just mentioned that twice, so you get the picture.
I have to say that the train ride in on the BART was exciting; paired with the nervousness my mind fought with all of those feelings on the way in. I just knew that if we just remained aware we should be fine, and we were. From Santa Clara to San Francisco the ride was like a half-hour each way. There was a lot to see on route. It was just cool experiencing it all.
When we arrived, I found that my excitement far overwhelmed my nervousness. I LOVE BIG CITIES! The experiences over the next three days were better than I had imagined. The pictures you will see reflect a lot of what we did. It was cool to be a tourist somewhere so packed full of cultural diversity and rich history. Colors, and yes, the colorful, were everywhere! Sometimes you had to search for pockets of it, but the beauty of the city was breathtaking. The air wasn't always filled with the most pleasant of aromas, but by and large, the city is still thrilling.
While we were there, we got the opportunity to see Hamilton. I loved the experience. The old theatre was amazing, and the show was beyond any expectation I could have had. I would see that again without question. In addition, we had the opportunity to catch a piece of history about to end. Beach Blanket Babylon closed its doors after the 2019 season. This after an amazing 45-year run! One thing is for sure, they will poke fun at any issue in this musical review. I fully enjoyed it. On the last day in San Francisco, we saw Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. If you know the story it wouldn't be a surprise, but it was a very good show. I enjoyed it.
My San Francisco Collection reflects the city of San Francisco as well as some of the amazing spots we visited. We took in some amazing Museums like The Legion of Honor and de Young Museum. There was an awesome Exhibit featuring Monet that I truly enjoyed. I made reference to him in my last blog post. I find his work fascinating.
Reflected in my collection you will see images of Chinatown. What a beautiful place! The splashes of color everywhere was incredible and there was so much to see and do. Immerse yourself in the fabulous experience.
We went to Pier 39. Many of the photos you will see are from there. I had a delicious bowl of Clam Chowder for lunch and Kat's son and I slurped Fresh Oysters on a half shell. We visited so many cool spots in the area. The majestic naval vessel you will see images of is the SS Jerimiah O'Brian. That was a highlight worth seeing. It is one of two remaining operational Liberty ships and the only one that is unaltered. One of my all-time favorite images I have taken comes from that ship.
David, My Fiance's oldest son, and I got aboard a tour boat that took us beneath the Golden Gate Bridge as well as around Alcatraz. You will see that I made images of the bridge from several locations. The iconic bridge is a reminder of how creative and talented mankind can be. There wasn't a spot where the bridge gets any less magnificent. I also included a shot that features the Bay Bridge; it is also quite the marvel.
This experience was amazing. Did it have its rough spots? It did. Unfortunately, mankind hasn't done a great overall job keeping it clean. However, that isn't a reason to avoid the city. On the contrary, it should be a destination everyone gets to take in at some point. I want to thank David for the amazing guidance throughout San Francisco and it's surrounding area. I am quite fortunate to have a partner in crime like Kat. Every experience it better with her beside me. I am certainly blessed.
Enjoy the images! If you have any questions or comments please feel free to ask them. If you'd prefer to email me privately, please do so. I believe my prices are quite fair in case you see something you like and would like to display it someplace. I love to hear from those looking at my shots. Don't hesitate to get in touch.
- Cheers
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I have been told all my life that people who don't see very well shouldn't be doing things that I do. I am pretty sure that this has gone hand in hand with people telling me I would do better in life if I were less stubborn. The fact of the matter is, I have dealt with both of those things in my lifetime and it's simply part of what makes me who I am. I think my desire to do things people have told me I probably shouldn't be doing is part of why I took up photography. I guess you could say it became a "Hold My Beer" kind of thing.
I have been shooting pictures since High School, and I have certainly dealt with more than my share of grainy or blurry pictures. However, if you take enough of the right pictures, those grainy shots don't really matter. That is much easier now with digital photography, and less expensive. The more I work with my equipment the easier it gets. Preparation is the key to success as far as I am concerned.
If I am working with you I can assure you I will take that necessary time to make your session comfortable and give you results you will be happy with,
I have always been inspired by folks who have done things despite boundaries that are set before them. I think of Monet and the beautiful paintings he made while being hampered by cataracts. While his art was not the same as before, it still appealed to those that appreciate his work. There are so many amazing stories like this of folks who didn't give up on what they love because of some hurdle that has been thrown in front of them.
I have benefitted from the encouragement of folks in my life to pursue what I enjoy. My fiance, Kathie, has been a huge supporter; I couldn't have a better cohort in my adventures through life.
“The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.” —Ernest Hemingway
I don't want you to buy my pictures because I am challenged visually. I want you to buy my pictures because you think they are a representation of a moment that made you feel something. If you want that feeling to be remembered, then I would love for you to purchase my work.
Please take a look around. I would love your feedback. I also do event and portrait photography for those that live near me who might need images shot. I also have a creative media company where I specialize in helping smaller companies build their presence. I live in the LAs Vegas, Nevada area, but I love going to other locations. Beaches and places with history are often some of our favorite spots to land. What I do goes hand in hand with photography because it allows me to be comfortable working with you in every aspect of making sure your project is done right from start to finish.
Please continue to check back. This site is new and there will be frequent updates. As I mentioned before, I am always happy to talk about ideas with someone. I feel as if there is always something new to learn.
Thank you for stopping by. I really appreciate it.
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