Adventures In Black And White I had intended to take some black and white seascape photos on my recent trip to California. Actually, I had been planning this for about two years. While I was out there, someone nominated me for the "7 days, no explanations" fad. So, in addition to these shots crafted meticulously with camera, tripod, and special long-exposure filters, I had fun taking some quick snaps with my iPhone.
It's funny how things work out. Fortunately, people seem to be enjoying all of the shots, even the ones from my phone. Camera: Sony a7R II Lens: Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS
Coast Highway Detour In May of 2017, a massive landslide destroyed a significant portion of California's coastal highway south of Big Sur. Six months later, the roadway is still closed and may remain closed for another year. Motorists are forced to follow a very long detour along an inland route. I arrived in Carmel later than expected due to delays incurred along this detour. Desperate to grab a shot of something (anything) before the last light faded, I parked by the outlet of the Carmel River, grabbed my camera, and pushed through a thicket of poison oak to find a vantage point on the beach. I set my tripod up as quickly as I could and composed a frame with the line of the beach running through the foreground. I focused on the distant trees, locked it in, and bracketed a few exposures before the light disappeared.
Sunset Over Point Lobos - Carmel, California
It's amazing how often you have to scramble like mad in order to capture a landscape photo. The landscape doesn't move around, but the light can change rapidly. Miss that light by a few seconds, and you'll lose your chance completely.
Camera: Sony A7R II Lens: Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM
Triumph of the Human Spirit London. Paris. New York. These great cities have experienced more than their share of troubles, both in recent years and throughout history. And yet, each one stands, boldly and proudly, a testament to the triumphs of the human spirit. You'll find the world's best museums here. The best libraries. The best examples of art and architecture. The best music The best ideas. And the epitome of commerce and business.
Tower Bridge - London
Humanity will always face problems. Life has never been easy, and some of our most persistent challenges have been self-inflicted. But the sum total of the human experience is wildly positive. If you need a reminder, take a walk along the Thames. Or the Seine. Or Fifth Avenue. Let the historic achievements of mankind inspire you to reach for your own soaring accomplishments. Camera: Nikon D700 Lens: AF-S Nikkor 24-70 f/2.8G ED IF