Travelin' About

Composition is the most important element to exceptional landscape photographs, after good focus, that is.  There are some tried and true guidelines that have been stated by far better photographers and artists than I. One of the best recommendations I can offer is look at as many good photographs as you can and decide for yourself what you like. Check out other photographer's websites, stock photography sites, museums, special exhibits and photography books. I was fortunate that, as part of my job when working for Scenic Hudson, a nonprofit that protects Hudson River land and vistas, I had to peruse a lot of stock photography as well as local photographer's sites to try and find great images for use by that organization. It allowed me to see and recognize how certain images were framed, how different elements led me into the image and how some images sparked an emotional response. One of my favorite landscape photographers, Tom Doyle, recently stated, "Successful compos...

I've been thinking of trying to post more often. Of course, that is where it began and look where it's turned out.  I see I have ONE "follower" (thank you Danielle!). Not even my kids read what I've written. Heavy sigh. Could it be because I have written nothing of worth? Yes. That is it!  What have I offered of value to the general reading public? A blog needs to offer some information (or at least a laugh). The blogs I enjoy most are photography blogs that show me new techniques on lighting or provide inspiration or identification with a shared experience.  Joe McNally talks about being compelled to go back to Starbucks to take a photo of a pair of hands.  I've been there - don't always have the courage to go back and get the shot (hmm- that should probably be rarely have the b____s) but I definitely ID with the feeling. Scott Kelby tells me about new equipment (and now I'm craving the ipad) and David Hobby is the best as he shares all kinds of wonde...

Hi, my name is Chris and I am an addict. My addiction is photography. It runs my life. I own 3 cameras, 6 lenses and untold flashes, filters, bags and doo-dads and still I want more. I work as a graphic artist for a small town daily newspaper (making a pitifully small salary) and I’m elated when they send me out to take a photo of a doctor, new retail store or a product shot for advertising. I spend my weekends doing portraits, weddings, children’s theater and my own personal favorite, landscapes. I am president of a “professional” camera club and a member of two others (as well as being a member of NAPP and PPA). I have had images selected to be in juried shows and have placed in photo competitions (alas, I haven’t achieved ‘gold’ yet). My ego gets stroked by my compulsive desire to post my images on Facebook. I’ve been told I’m good but I long persistently to be better. I want my obituary to ready “great photographer.”  I’ve joined support groups but I just can’t break th...

I started this blog to get used to the idea of writing on a daily basis...and it has fallen into a once every couple of months syndrome. Perhaps that's because I'm not traveling enough. I am certainly craving a trip right now. My boss just came back from a wonderful time in Mexico, near Cancun, but in a more off-the-beaten-track, cabin-on-the-beach setting near a tropical preserve and ancient ruins. I'm dying here!  She said she thought of me when they took a trip to an island where all kinds of exotic birds live and they all flew home at sunset, allowing her the heart-stopping exhilaration of hearing them all call to one another in their own comfortable space. I need a vacation! Andy and I have been contemplating our next trip lately. There's a photographic learning experience available in June at Lake Powell that will also be visiting Antelope Arch and more cool sounding places. I really want to do that. Or there's a cruise in September, leaving from NY and head...