The Slopes of Friendship
“Skiing is the dance and the mountain always leads.”
~ Anonymous ~
Big Decisions - Val Thorens, France
There have been plenty of books written on the joys of skiing and the camaraderie the sport fosters - place 100 skiers in the same room and everyone departs with new friends for life. It’s an unwritten rule, but observed around the world without reservation. Some even get married at a later date as was the case with my mom & dad.
It’s an amazing process and one I look forward to every ski season. The simple fact of having one thing in common bridges any perceived distance in age, geography and occupation. In short… it’s pure magic.
The outdoor lifestyle may play a vital role in this theory as well. Science has confirmed spending time outdoors has a direct correlation with increased levels of happiness and better mental & physical health. Happiness leads to smiling and this leads to crows feet. It’s a chain reaction in which I affectionately refer to the creases in my eyes as “Miles of Smiles.”
Getting to Club Med - Val Thorens (France) this year was a blessing in disguise. There’s good & bad outcomes in every situation, but I think this vacation worked in our favor. Originally scheduled for winter 2021, Covid ruined the ski club plans… along with the French government.
Club Med - Val Thorens
In the early part of 2021, most of Europe was closed to American tourists. This provided a ‘definite possibility of a maybe’ we would be allowed to land in Geneva, cross the border into France and ski in the Savoy region.
Another small issue pertained to the fact the mountains were deemed open by the French government, but not the chairlifts. “Huhhhhh?”… said the confused skier. Does this mean we hike up the hill and ski down or request a refund on our prepaid lift tickets?
Sitting in holiday limbo for months, Club Med finally cancelled our reservations two (2) weeks before departing. A refund and/or credit was offered for another vacation to be used within a two (2) year window of time. I opted for the refund as I didn’t know when I would re-schedule the trip.
For anyone who’s gone on a Club Med holiday, you’ve experienced the “Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart Baby)” entertainment theme park environment. Ironically, this song by Sway hit #7 on the music charts in Canada in 1987. Just thought you might want to know! The lively culture is supported by great employees, plenty of entertainment, live music and a plethora of food & alcohol that comes in an all inclusive vacation package. Suffice to say, you aren’t going to burn the amount of calories you consume on the slopes and/or dance floor.
In closing… the three (3) year hiatus was worth the wait. The slopes of Val Thorens, Meribel and Courchevel lived up to the accolades as one of the best ski resorts in the world. Vive la France.
Yours truly…
Until next time…
Cheers.
Simplicity...
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
~ Leonardo da Vinci ~
Warwick, NY (GoPro in chest harness & iPhone)
Life is simple…
At least it should be. Lord knows humans can complicate matters beyond imagination. The mundane morphs into difficult and challenging becomes impossible. If we stay out of our own way and keep it simple (ahhh - there’s that word again), it should be easy.
E.B. White sums it up best in Charlotte’s Web… “After all, what is life anyway? We’re born, we live a little while and we die.” This is brilliantly stated as we’re not on planet earth very long.
Considering we all enter & exit this glorious world in the same manner, the defining moments come in the middle. This is where we blaze our own frontier, light the world on fire and hopefully, don’t offend anyone along the way.
Ironically, this ‘live a little while’ section is also the time when our legacy (if any) starts to develop. If we dig a little deeper; our occupation is usually not our calling card in life. Sad, but oh so true… rather, it’s what we do on our personal time that shines the light on who we are (i.e. coach, volunteer, charity, musician, photographer, etc.)
It’s the rare person who finds their destiny early in life and makes it their occupation. It happens… but, it’s not common. For everyone else, our true passions are revealed on weekends/holidays/vacations. I can only speak for myself, but I probably won’t be remembered as the guy who worked in finance for 30+ years. More than likely, I’ll be mentioned as the passionate skier who loved the mountains and took an endless amount of photographs along the way.
Reflexions of Fall - Rockland Lake, NY
Speaking of which… let’s discuss photography for a New York minute. It doesn’t have to be complicated either. Photographers follow the ‘Exposure Triangle’ and dial in light sensitivity (ISO), shutter speed and aperture. Once we find our desired settings… i.e. instruct the camera of our intentions… we then add our own creativity to the mix.
It’s a Brand New Day… Congers Lake, NY
The challenge comes into play as we attempt to silence the noise and declutter our minds. Clearing mental clutter can reduce stress levels, sharpen our focus and lead to enhanced creativity.
Fall foliage is a blissful time of year for photographers in the New York region and a great time to embrace the silence. Playing in the colorful array of maple, oaks and birch trees can allow individuals to be more in tune with their surroundings, notice the nuances of nature and channel their emotions and experiences into their photography.
As we find the imagery that brings us joy and satisfaction, we can dismiss the illusion of photography being a popularity contest sanctioned by social media rules: likes, emojis, comments or shares. Our inner voice will have the final say on the quality of our image… nobody else. It’s not always a good or bad result, as plenty of variation exists to appease your creativity.
A Moment In Time - Congers, NY
In conclusion… simplicity can indeed be the ultimate form of sophistication. Take your time, silence your mind and cultivate a deeper level of understanding on your next life endeavor.
Until next time…
Cheers.
Hats R Us...
“Home is where you hang your hat.”
~ Leon Redbone ~
Fashion, sports, education, occupation, military or personal style… it’s not one size fits all when it comes to hats. Some of the most famous people in the world are remembered for their headgear… Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Kennedy, John Wayne, Charlie Chaplin, Fred Astair, Michael Jackson and I’ll even throw in Indiana Jones for bonus points.
They are versatile and multipurpose accessories worn for a host of reasons. They have enriched our society for centuries; even paintings dating back to 3200 BC reflect upper class Egyptians wearing conical straw hats to protect their shaven heads from the sun. Even Otzi the Iceman (circa 3250 BC) allegedly wore a bearskin cap in his day. His frozen mummy from the alps shows him donning a hat for both warmth & protection.
Fast forward to 2024… The more things change the more they remain the same! Some things are evergreen… they’re simply timeless. Styles, fabric & color may change, but the core purpose remains the same.
As a follicly challenged outdoor enthusiast, the various hats I own are in play all year. Whether I’m on the slopes or at the beach, hats still have the same purpose as 5,000 years ago… warmth and protection from the sun (my Dermatologist approves this part!).
There you have it… all the hat news fit to print on a rainy day in late January.
Until next time…
Cheers.
What's Old Is New Again - 2024
“Sooner or later, everything old is new again.”
~ Stephen King ~
Chrissy Field - San Francisco - 1987
The what’s old is new again movement is on fire. Just ask the Rolling Stones as AARP gets ready to sponsor their North American “Hackney Diamonds” tour in 2024. I’m sensing the 80 year band members will have afternoon concert venues to afford early bird pricing and allow adequate time to get seniors home by 7:00PM.
If we analyze this a bit further, the old is new mantra isn’t new and applies to numerous products of yesteryear. The retro world has been thriving for decades and simply rotates through various products as the authenticity and uniqueness of nostalgia is timeless.
Everything from the Polaroid camera, LL Bean Duck boots, flip phones, scrunchies and even the Old Fashioned is back in circulation at a bar near you.
The best example may actually be vinyl records… they’re enjoying a “Don’t Call It A Comeback” moment as sales have now increased 17 years in a row. In the US alone, they had a 4.2% increase in album sales last year to 42.5 million copies. So, don’t be quick in throwing out your Beastie Boys “License to Ill” (1977) original vinyl or the classic Fleetwood Mac “Rumours” (1977) album collecting dust in your closet. It may be a costly mistake.
Be patient young man (or women)… if you wait long enough, everything comes back into fashion. It’s the circle of life. I’ve been wearing my bellbottom jeans for 30+ years trying to flash my fashion genius and get ahead of the curve. I still have a functional pair of Hush Puppies shoes somewhere as well. If I can’t find them, my Chuck Taylor high tops will do in a pinch.
The “Mad Men” era of Madison Avenue brilliantly changed the rules of advertising and figured out how to discreetly separate you from your money. If it’s new & improved (think iPhone) or simply shiny, they’ll subliminally convince you to buy the new product. Don’t buy the hype… old stuff rules!
Photography is certainly no exception to this menagerie. Sure, some technology advancements are game changers and certainly inspire people to get out and shoot more images. This is a net positive to the purchase process. However, many improvements are simply fluff and not worth your time… or money.
In the end, buying a new camera isn’t going to improve your photography.
If I can use golfing as a quick analogy: Several years ago, I bought a new TaylorMade SIM2 Max driver. Boy, she was a beauty. I’ve never had a big swing, so the graphite shaft would allow a little more whip and club speed. The first time I used the club confirmed my beliefs… club speed accelerated on the first tee and the ball traveled about 25 yards further… into the woods. It was as though my new driver came with a Muir Woods membership. I spend more time bonding with nature than my foursome on the golf course. My errant tee shots were plentiful and I couldn’t find all the stray balls. However, I did find a few patches of poison ivy for my efforts.
Yellowstone National Park - 1990
Bass Harbor Lighthouse - Acadia National Park - 1992
I think you get my point… new equipment isn’t always the answer. Sorry. If you want to improve your photography in 2024, may I suggest looking at used equipment? There’s a plethora of great stuff at your local camera store looking for a new home (Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc). Even better advice… take private lessons, buy a few books, attend a workshop(s), sign up for seminars and purchase and/or subscribe to online photography websites. You can thank me later as it will be money well spent.
And there you have it… all the news/commentary fit to print on a late December day in 2023. Bring on the New Year!
Fisherman’s Wharf - San Francisco - 1987
Until next time…
Cheers.
Instant Photofication...
“Learning patience can be a difficult experience, but once
conquered, you will find life is easier.”
~Catherine Pulsifer~
Reflexions - Rockland Lake, NY
I remember my parents teaching me about patience as a child. It was more than just a virtue; it was something to be revered and indicative of age, discipline and maturity.
As the world evolves, I’ve noticed plenty of changes over the last 20 years and the ‘instant everything’ culture is perhaps the most prevalent. It’s trumping the concept of time & patience… for better and worse.
Today, everything is about speed… the faster the better. “We Report It First” is a TV news mantra full of fluff. Assuming your facts are correct, reporting with lightning speed is great. Sadly, this isn’t always the case. Who remembers Al Gore winning the State of Florida in the 2000 elections and thus the Presidency? Enough said. Not so fast.
Photography hasn’t been spared by this pandemic. Some degree of quality is sacrificed at the cost of speed. Most photojournalists shoot in .jpg format as the smaller files are easier to transmit than the larger raw files. Perhaps this isn’t a big deal in our social media driven world (small files are acceptable), but I think it’s fair to say most images aren’t post processed as much due to time constraints and thus, some compromise takes place.
Haverstraw, NY
Tennis Reflexions - Congers, NY
I’m not sure when this transgression took place, but I have a sneaky suspicion the AOL instant messaging revolution of 1997 and the Blackberry texting platform of 2002 were the culprits.
I’m starting to think old school is a better approach… bring back the Brownie camera (1900)! Okay, maybe that’s too far back. But, let’s do some reverse engineering and a take a giant step back and slow our roll. We don’t have to sprint to the social media finish line. Seriously… what’s the rush? There’s not much urgency in what photographers do. Sure, there are some exceptions, but the overall process of photography should be slow & deliberate.
Good things take time… writing a book, losing weight, gardening… even a Guinness requires time to complete the proper, two-pour process (no messing around on the this one!).
Photography falls into this category as well… it’s an intentional, mindful discipline that shouldn’t be rushed. The ability to relax and heighten one’s situational awareness comes with time… and dare I say, patience & maturity. Getting into the Flow State, as it’s often referred to by athletes, is state of optimal performance, characterized by complete focus on the present moment, a sense of control and a loss of self-consciousness.
The next time you snap some frames, wait a few days, if not weeks, before post processing your favorites. You’ll remove any emotional bias from your images and have a more critical eye during the secondary review. We’re all human and have emotions and/or feelings associated with time & place. A beautiful sunset in Santorini is a memory of a lifetime; however, if your emotions are front-running good composition, lighting and design elements, the passing of time before, during and after capturing your image(s) may be advantageous.
Santorini, Greece
As you’ve probably gathered, I’m not a fan of the instant everything world we now occupy. I certainly embrace technology and all it offers; however, I’d be first in line to revert back to old school media… newspapers, magazines and radio. I guess I’ll never be an Influencer?
In the words of the legendary Alfred Eisenstadt,
“People will never understand the patience a photographer requires to make a great photograph, all they see is the end result. I can stand in front of a leaf with a dew drop, or a rain drop, and stay there for ages just waiting for the right moment. Sure, people think I'm crazy, but who cares? I see more than they do!”
Until next time…
Cheers.
Intentional Camera Blur
“Photography has no rules. It’s not a sport.”
~ Said Every Photographer ~
Intentional camera blur (ICB) or motion photography is more popular than ever these days. I’ve always admired the creativity of this style and should do it more often! It’s a brilliant form of photography where you use a slow shutter speed to bring out your inner Picasso.
Rockland Lake, NY
This can be done by panning your subject… a simple technique whereby you follow your subject from left to right or up & down while shooting simultaneously. The slow shutter speed will render an artistic interpretation of the scene.
Some people will prefer to use a tripod while others like the freedom of hand holding the camera. It’s a personal choice, but if your shooting a landscape or something with a distinctive horizon line (i.e. ocean), a tripod with a good ball head is advantageous. It has a higher probability of rendering a crisp horizon line and the desired outcome. You may wish to use a cable release as well to allow one hand to executive the pan while the other trips the shutter.
Is there a correct shutter speed for getting these artistic images? Absolutely… not. It’s personal preference, freedom of expression and often depends on the subject. The slower the shutter speed, the greater the blur or colors you will capture.
Mountaincreek, NJ
US Open - Queens, NY
If you’re shooting sports and the athlete is running, set your camera to shutter priority (Tv on Canon) and try 1/15 or 1/20 of a second. Over the years, I’ve found this to be a good shutter speed for most sports. Pan or move your camera at the same speed as the athlete running past you. You normally want your athlete to be on a horizontal plane with you. If they are running past you (as opposed to away from you), it’s often easier to get the desired outcome. A smooth and steady panning technique coupled with using the built in motor drive on your camera (frames per second) will increase the likelihood of getting a winning image(s).
If the subject(s) happens to be still or motionless (i.e. trees, rocks, buildings), choose the speed that matches your end objective. Remember, one speed doesn’t fit all when panning. Moving your camera at the desired speed will provide a corresponding amount of motion or blur. The slower the shutter speed, the more abstract the image(s). This is where experimenting becomes your best friend. Trial & error is the name of the game. Take a few images and then look at your camera back. If you didn’t obtain the desired outcome… wash/rinse/repeat… take as many pictures as need be.
Most of us will shoot our ICB images in the left/right format. This seems to be more common than panning north/south for some reason. Both can be highly effective and you may wish to shoot the same subject in both formats and decide which one you prefer at a later time.
Westerly, RI (iPhone 12 Pro Max w/Slow Shutter app)
Exposure times from 1/2 second or longer may be an appropriate for this endeavor. The artistic world is your oyster, explore the spectrum of possibilities and don’t be surprised by the number of unacceptable frames that will result (read: crappy). You’re going to have a high throw away rate (%) and it’s normal. Par for the course. The delete button may become your best friend. Seriously… don’t get frustrated. Nobody is going to judge you on winners (%) vs losers (%)… they’re only going to see the few select Pulitzer Prize winners and say ‘Boom goes the dynamite’ (insert smile).
The beauty of this process is not just the final image though, but the rendering of a one of a kind picture. It’s difficult… if not impossible… to replicate a motion/blur image. I’ve always felt painters have the edge over photographers in that every piece of work they create is truly unique. Here’s where photographers can level the playing field as every ICB image is like a finger print… it too is truly special and virtually impossible to duplicate.
Paris, France
There are a few additional ways to create ICB images: One pertains to using a zoom lens and spinning the lens during the exposure (some zooms may be push/pull). You hold the camera steady and zoom the lens to or from. For example, if you’re using a 24mm-105mm lens, you can zoom from 24mm to 105mm during your exposure or 105mm to 24mm. No right or wrong direction, just personal choice. The 2nd option is what’s often referred to as ‘down the drain’. In this technique, you zoom as well, but instead turn the camera while holding the lens steady. The end result can be pure magic as it has a circular spin feel with the image making a circle pattern in your frame (see red tree above).
Paris, France
One last recommendation pertains to focusing. Because new cameras are brilliant at autofocus, the technology is going to want to focus on something (anything) before tripping the shutter. You may find it easier to pre-focus on your subject and then switch your lens focus button from auto to manual. Turn off image stabilization as well… there’s no point in asking the camera to stabilize an image when you’re intentionally trying to blur the final product. In the bike image above, I focused on the edge of the sidewalk, switched off autofocus and then followed the cyclist through the frame while firing 5-10 shots.
In closing… you can spend hours playing with ICB images as the possibilities are endless. Don’t forget, be patient and enjoy the journey!
Until next time…
Cheers.
Bits & Pieces - 2023
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”
~ Walt Disney ~
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Photographers are forever chasing the light in search of patterns, lines, texture, highlights, shadows and color. Whether early morning or late evening, the more of these design elements that come together, the better the image. Subjects can vary widely, but it’s these design elements that often make the image.
In many lines of work, specializing in one subject or craft is required to elevate your skill set to the next level (i.e. Doctors). Some may disagree with me here; I don’t think this concept applies to photographers.
A friend of mine often says, “I specialize in not specializing” and his brilliant photographic talent(s) is on display in every image he shoots… landscape, wildlife, portraits, etc. If you think about it, at the end of the day, the exposure triangle of photography applies to all imagery. The proper mix of aperture, shutter speed and ISO is key to a correct exposure. This hasn’t changed in decades… perhaps even a century.
A recent quote got me thinking further about specializing and how many things an individual can you do well in life. I’ll paraphrase to keep things simple:
“A human should be able to change a diaper, catch a fish, start a fire, cook a meal, build a wall, write a poem, fight efficiently, solve problems, cooperate, act alone, give orders, take orders, comfort the dying and die gallantly. Specialization is for insects.”
Hmmm… sounds about right to me! Photographers aren’t insects and take a plethora of images while chasing the light. Some fall into neat concise boxes and can be categorized accordingly - sports, landscapes, travel, portraits. Many are simply random images with no home. I often call these images… Bits & Pieces.
Let’s get started. In no particular order, category or time line… here are a few of the above mentioned images.
Ft. Myers, Florida
Athens, Greece
Times Square - New York City
Hollywood, Florida
Until next time…
Cheers.
Summer Vibes - LBI Style
“Time wasted at the beach is time well spent.”
~ Anonymous ~
Brant Beach, NJ
It all began in the summer of 1972… An energetic kid of 9 years of age was invited to go to the Jersey shore by his friend “Whacky Packy” and his family. Call it a beach sleep over before sleep overs were even a thing… this kind of stuff didn’t happen everyday and it was hard to control my youthful enthusiasm.
I didn’t know anything about Ship Bottom, Long Beach Island (LBI) or the State of New Jersey. It didn’t matter, all I knew was a 2 hour drive would motor us to a different world… sun, beach & fun… and maybe some ships at the bottom of the ocean for a mask, snorkel & flipper exploration. What did I know?
Because the family station wagon was the vehicle of choice in the ‘70’s. it was our ticket to vacation paradise. I vaguely remember the ride down the Garden State Parkway that day, but distinctly remember the staticky, soulful music pumping out of the one speaker AM/FM radio. Whether you were Dancing In the Moonlight, mining for a Heart of Gold or simply thinking It Never Rains In Southern California… King Harvest, Neil Young and Albert Hammond were providing lifetime memories for all who listened.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge - Holgate Beach Wilderness
Ironically, this past week while driving to LBI for another year of sun, beach & fun in my Subaru Outback with an XM Siri radio with four speakers, Albert Hammonds halted the conversation when his 1972 classic, “It Never Rains In Southern California” lit up the satellite airwaves. Transported back in time faster than a DeLorean with a flux capacitor, I was reliving the days of old.
Plenty has changed on LBI over the years. The 18 mile long barrier island is still as popular as ever, but the old Doo Wop houses of yesteryear have been replaced over time. Named after the music of the ‘50’s these one story cottages with gable roofs and screened in porches have been replaced with McMansions of monumental proportions often times with multiple a/c units. Call it evolution… or regression as there’s often a fine line between the two as bigger isn’t always better… the island marches forward to its own cadence, but yet continues to provide memories of a lifetime for 9 year kids.
The more things change the more they remain the same.
Until next time…
Cheers.
A Place Called Italy...
“You may have the world if I may have Italy.”
~ Giuseppi Verdi ~
Piazza San Marco - Venice, Italy
It seems skiing in Italy on two separate occasions isn’t the same as vacationing in Italy. The Dolomites in northern Italy is a winter playground for outdoor enthusiasts and world-class skiing. As such, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Torino have hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956 and 2006, respectively (note: Cortina & Milan will host the Winter Olympics in 2026).
“You’ve never been to Italy” was the rallying cry of my better half. “Yea, yea, yea… you’ve been to the mountains skiing, but everything is white and looks the same. You’ve never been to Italy-Italy.”
“Oh contraire mon frere” I replied. “My passport confirms two (2) visits.”
“First of all… that’s French, not Italian” she responded. “Secondly, you’ve never seen the history, beauty and charm of Italy.”
*****
Every vacation begins with planning and the question… “Where do you want to go?” Italy was already being discussed, so this part was easy. Selecting a specific location would be difficult as you could spend a lifetime in Italy and not touch all the pillars of history. Perhaps a Stanley Tucci approach was in order? Pick a region… Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, etc? Not a bad idea; but, neither of us are foodies. In the end, a hybrid approach prevailed and we settled on a Northern Italy itinerary. Veneto and Lombardy would be our regions and include; Venice, Lake Garda and Milan.
Starting in Venice was a logical place to immerse ourselves in arguably, the most revered architecture in the world. Founded in 435 BC, the “Floating City” is a mesmerizing display of 118 islands connected by waterways and 400+ bridges. Canals replace streets and getting around takes place on foot, gondolas or vaparettos (water taxis).
Upon arriving, we opted to walk the 35 minutes from the bus depot to our hotel whereby, I quickly discovered about 100 of these lovely bridges while wheeling and/or carrying our 42lbs suitcase up & over each and every one of these Renaissance styled foot bridges.
Walking through Venice is a series of serendipitous discoveries and a feast of monumental proportions. As you stroll through Piazza San Marco (aka St. Mark’s Square), the Byzantine and Gothic influences come to life. Many of the Byzantine mosaics date back to the 13th century and are alive at St. Mark’s Basilica depicting scenes from the old & new testament and political topics of the era.
When a break is needed from your history lesson, you can easily romance a cappuccino on a quiet canal or piazza and gather your thoughts.
After a day of blissful exploration, your tired feet will want to get back to the hotel. We managed to walk an average of 7 miles per day, using our iPhone GPS to guide us home was just shy of divine intervention. In a maize of Italian history, I didn’t have enough bread crumbs to cover my tracks. Besides, there are flocks of seagulls & pigeons throughout the city to throw you off course.
After three (3) days of absorbing 2,500 years of history (roughly 833 years per day!), it was time to head to the Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station and depart for the 2.5 hour trip to Lake Garda. Zipping due west through the luscious pastures of the Lombardy region was a pleasant change of scenery; grape vines replaced gargoyle fixtures and farms informally connected one town to the next. At one point, I thought I even heard “Oh Romeo, Romeo wherefor art though Romeo?” as the train doors opened in Verona to allow passengers to exit. There’s plenty of romance in this part of the world.
The Peschiera del Garda stop was next. This location borders on the southern shore of Lake Garda and made for an easy 30 minute bus ride to our hotel in the town of Garda. Figuring out train & bus schedules on holiday is part of any adventure and timing is everything. We were in the right place; but a few minutes too late for the bus. The next departure for our destination would arrive in 30-40 minutes. Travel days always seem to have a hurry up and wait agenda. A wee bit of patience was in order, a cool drink and a good book.
Music on the Lake Garda
Cappuccino with Love
Lake Garda Nght Life
A short while later, we arrived at our hotel on the eastern shore, our home base for the next eight (8) days. We casually unpacked, but instantly fell in love with the area. The mountains hugged the crystal clear water like a warm embrace and the Dolomites to the north were the elder statesman. Simply breathtaking. The charm was undeniable; lakeside restaurants were available to our right and a gorgeous walk to the town of Baldalino was on our left. Ferries were available to shuttle us around the lake and when they weren’t convenient (cost or time), public buses were readily available.
We learned Americans have a love affair with Lake Como to the north of us (i.e. George Clooney) while Europeans have been infatuated with Lake Garda for centuries. As the largest lake in Italy and the 3rd largest in southern Europe, you will find plenty of Germans & Austria tourists sprinkled throughout the region. This is why so many Edelweiss beers were on the menu to the north of us and in particular; the northern most town on Lake Garda… Riva Del Garda.
One of the highlights in this outdoor playground was the majestic views of Lake Garda from atop Mount Baldo (7,220 ft). From the town of Malcesine (292 ft) you can board the tram for 25€ (return). Perspective is everything and the incredible views of Lake Garda from this elevation were breathtaking. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, paragliders dot the landscape and launch into the abyss right in front of you. I’m not sure how you gain enough experience… and courage… to take part in this activity, but it was fascinating to watch each person set up their gear, evaluate the wind and set sail. Similar to planes awaiting departure at JFK, there was a protocol in place and each person waited their turn to depart. Although I never heard a single word spoken, professional courtesy did exist and everyone seemed to follow the unspoken rules. I was anticipating the more versed gliders to yell ‘Arrivederci’ upon departure. To my chagrin… niente.
A Leap of Faith - Mount Baldo - Lake Garda
Into the Blue - Lake Garda
Finally, there was Milan… the capital of the Lombardy region and the 2nd largest city in Italy behind Rome. It’s a major financial, commercial and industrial center with a vibrant fashion, design & art orientation. Two of the most prominent structures in the city are the Duomo di Milano Cathedral; which took over 600 years to build, and the Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II; considered to be one of the most famous shopping arcades in the world. The Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Both were stunning and a photographic dream.
Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II
Duomo di Milano Cathedral
Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II
Upon returning to the States, I could only reflect back and try to absorb the all that Italy offered us in our thirteen (13) days. I feel I just scratched the surface of Italian history and will have to return for more.
In summary… “Okay, okay… she was right” said the humbled photographer.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The Joy of Summer - A Photo Essay
The joy of summer is undeniable: It’s the ultimate season for unabashed fun and outdoor adventure. It's a time when warm days stretch into evenings and every ray of sun touches your soul like a loving embrace. A warm breeze reminds you of your childhood and the air is filled with the joyful sounds of children at play. Beaches morph into tapestries of color and everything in the world reverts to its proper place.
Paris, France
Okay, I think you get the point! Here are several pictures celebrating the “Joy of Summer…”
Until next time…
Cheers.
Words of Advice to My Younger Self...
Dear Young Mark,
After ordering a medium ice coffee at Dunkin Donuts (DD) earlier this week, the young girl behind the counter asked, “Would you like the senior discount?” After the shock disappeared from my face, I realized she wasn't inferring I looked old, but was simply offering me a $0.17 discount... I think.
It seems the DD franchise starts the courtesy for anyone over the age of 55. Having turned 60 earlier this year though, I have a few extra laps around the discount track and fit the profile. I'll assume her gesture was more the passing of the maturity torch and something I've earned over several generations of life.
If age truly brings wisdom, I've officially earned my merit badge and will share a few thoughts.
The most obvious recommendation I can offer pertains to being an only child. It's a tough road at times and occasionally will be lonely. You're going to be forced to make plenty of grown up decisions along the way… sometimes earlier in life than you may anticipate. Don't be afraid to gather all the facts and make informed decision(s). Do things on your own terms and in your own best interest. Some decisions will be challenging, but consider the process a sign of strength.
Just because you’re an only child doesn’t mean you should be the Lone Ranger… when possible, be inclusive of others in various endeavors as this is a vital part of communication and teamwork. Your friendships will prove invaluable over time and should be treasured. Many people will come & go in your life, but the lifelong friendships you develop will one day be a source of comfort.
A few more items to note would include the following:
Relax – Life should be cherished and enjoyed at your own pace. It's a marathon and not a sprint. Hindsight will also prove life is like a good book... there's a beginning, middle & end. What we do between the start and finish line is how you will be remembered.
Stay In the Moment - The daily busyness of life can be overwhelming. Stay in the moment and be thoroughly engaged in whatever you are doing. It will make for better memories.
Respect Your Elders – Older people have decades of real life experience. If you give them their due respect and listen to what they have to say, you will walk away a smarter person.
Read – The printed word is powerful, enlightening and educational. It will become an invaluable hobby as an only child and a great tool to better yourself each & every day. Always stay inquisitive.
Do the Right Thing – This one is pretty simple... always take the high road.
Smile More, Worry Less - Positivity is infectious and happiness is a choice.
Enjoy the Arts – Life is a balancing act and photography, painting, sculpting and so forth will provide a beautiful ying & yang effect to life. Artistic endeavors requiring you to learn all the rules and then ask you break all of them will prove invaluable for a plethora of reasons.
Great Outdoors – The four (4) seasons in the Northeast are intoxicating and offer a refreshing change of scenery every few months. Relishing the outdoor lifestyle is not only therapeutic, it checks the box for healthy living and enriches the soul.
Skiing – You will begin skiing at a young age (2 to be exact). The sport will open up an incredible array of travel opportunities and allow you to see the world through an adventurous lens. The countries, cultures, people and terrain you will encounter will be one of the true blessings in your life. Ski to your heart's content and as long as the good Lord allows you to point them downhill.
No Regrets – You will make thousands of decisions in your lifetime. Some will prove brilliant and others let’s just say will prove a wee bit off the mark. You will often realize the end result(s) of your choices at a later date. Learn to live with your decisions and don't look back. There are no regrets in life, just lessons.
Until next time...
Cheers,
Old Mark
A Walk In the Park - NYC
“The most unusual and surrealistic place in New York City is Central Park.”
~ Christo ~
Bethesda Fountain - Central Park
Central Park is a fascinating place. It’s an oasis of sanity in what’s otherwise a chaotic blend of concrete & steel. This may sound melodramatic, but it’s a factual statement for anyone who’s spent time in NYC. The vision of designer Frederick Olmsted in 1865 is nothing short of brilliant.
A few facts about Central Park:
It is 843 acres.
There are seven (7) lakes.
There are 10,000 benches.
Central Park is one of the most filmed locations in the world.
Purchasing Central Park was more expensive than buying Alaska.
Central Park is larger than the country of Monaco.
There are 42 arches & bridges in the Park (Bow Bridge is my favorite).
The Strawberry Fields memorial for John Lennon is located here.
Bethesda Fountain is the social and spiritual center of Central Park.
It’s the oldest public park in the United States (1853).
Until next time…
Cheers.
The Definition of Happy Place...
“For every minute you are angry, you lose 60 seconds of happiness.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~
Les Arcs - France
We’ve all heard the expression… “In my happy place” over the years. It usually refers to a particular location and the mere thought of a memory brings joy, hope and happiness.
This can be anything from the peaceful solace of your front porch at a lake front property. Sitting under a beach umbrella with a warm summer breeze. Or maybe even a mountain resort where the only thing between you and civilization is 10,000 pine trees.
Lots of choices. Plenty of scenarios.
Connemara National Park - Galway, Ireland
For a moment though, let’s expand upon this concept. The actual wording as found in the Oxford Dictionary for happiness is ‘The state of being happy.’ Some might say, “It’s the joy, contentment or sense of well-being.”
Either sounds good to me; however, I think of happiness as more about my frame of mind and level of contentment. It’s not the location (although this can certainly help), but more my physical & mental well-being at any point in time.
My depiction is more in the genre of “Wherever you go, there you are.” This is certainly a cliché of sorts, but let’s be realistic: it’s our choice. We are in charge of our happiness. It’s our decision and nobody’s else’s. We get to decide on happy or not(?) and any outside distractions are simply that… outside distractions.
Lake Welch - Harriman State Park, NY
Everything mountain related has been my lieu de choix. It’s where I find my inner peace. The natural beauty coupled with vast open spaces is intoxicating. It’s energy for the soul and in short… pure magic! It’s a spiritual quest best captured by the John Muir quote, “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
As Winter now morphs into Spring, plenty of new opportunities abound with the changing of the guard. A new season is upon us and there are plenty of things to make me smile. I enjoy the boundless beauty of all four seasons and will continue to find my happy place on a daily basis… wherever I might be.
St. Augustine Beach, FL
Until next time…
Cheers.
Mindfulness In Photography
“The first and best victory is to conquer self.”
~ Pluto ~
Having recently read “The Inner Landscape” by Guy Tal, I was fascinated by his reference(s) to mindfulness in photography. It seems there’s another level of consciousness beyond living in the moment.
Mindfulness comes from the teachings of Buddhism and is viewed as a fundamental pathway through which to become aware of the causes and sources of suffering and to attain enlightenment or an awakening, thereby enabling the individual to be less egotistical and more present. This intern leads to the full freedom of the mind.
When I first read this concept, I hit the pause button and said to myself, ‘What in in the world does awakening have to do with photography?’ I’m a simple guy from New York with a black & white perspective on life. Okay… maybe a few shades of gray. This is complicated.
When it comes to photography, I tend to cover a lot of sporting events, so I wasn’t sure if mindfulness even applied to action photography(?). There’s no time to admire the scene before you and find your inner Zen. The clock is ticking. Most events are 60 minutes in duration and you have no control over the ebb & flow of the game. You simply anticipate the action and snap away trying to capture peak moments. Perhaps landscape, nature or lifestyle photography would be a better fit for this suffering/enlightenment/awakening process.
The more I thought about the blocking & tackling elements of photography though, I began to change my mind… or at least expand my understanding. My memory drifted back to younger days when I was a ski racer. When you get into the starting gate, the world goes silent. You transcend the present and morph into a tunnel vision world of muted sounds. The encouragement of coaches & teammates fades into a dream like state and everything slows down. Your breath and heartbeat come to the forefront and all you think about are the gates in front of you. At some point, the starter yelling “Racer ready… 3-2-1 Go” snaps you back into real time and your dream like state comes to an abrupt end.
Maybe this is the mindfulness the author is talking about? The moments of being completely & utterly lost in time and having the concentration to focus on both the interior & exterior beauty at the same time. This is no easy feat. We live in a multi-task world and solely focusing on one item at a time is often frowned upon. It’s a hurry up, get things done world and there’s always something else pending.
Ironically, studies have show over time multi-tasking divides your attention and doesn’t allow you to complete each task to the highest level of your ability. Essentially, everything gets done in an average or acceptable manner. Perhaps it’s time to fully immerse yourself in the task at hand and discover a higher level of achievement? It is often said, there’s a big difference in looking & seeing and they never equate.
So, in the spirit of mindfulness and finding my inner Zen, I’ll expand my photographic efforts to try and capture the every day beauty of life in a different light or perspective. The camera can be a blessing and a curse. I don’t want to be the NYC tourist who goes to the top of the Empire State Building, snaps a photo and then returns to their car. This shouldn’t be a ‘been there, done that moment.’ The camera shouldn’t be the experience. Take a walk around the observation deck. Admire the views. Notice how the sunlight dances off the glass windows of the high rise office buildings. Only then, take a few pictures to record what you are seeing & feeling.
My end goal won’t be to capture award winning images, rather the simple pursuit of more joyful experiences. Everything from coffee beans to wine corks to the first snow storm of 2023 will be fair game. I sense the end result(s) will lead to a more fruitful and enlightening experience.
Until next time…
Cheers.
Why You Should Write a Blog...
“Don’t focus on having a great blog. Focus on a blog that’s
great for your readers.”
~ Brian Clark ~
Sante Fe, NM
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, only one third of Americans will read a book this year. Of the amount who do read, they average only 16 minutes per day. Compare this to viewing Netflix video content which consumes almost three hours of time each day. Perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise, but it’s certainly disappointing.
Back in 1966, a program entitled “Reading Is Fundamental” was launched to help increase children’s literacy. It was proven that reading helped kids with communication skills… oral & written… and afforded them a better understanding of what people were saying. It also provided a bond between mother & child.
As much as I’d like to bring back the era of newspapers and magazines, it’s not going to happen. The world has evolved… for better or worse… and the “Mad Men” days of advertising are sadly, long gone.
With that being said, why am I proposing you should write a blog said the inquisitive reader? Good question. A quick back story will explain my thought process.
A few years ago, I attended a Santa Fe Workshop in New Mexico. It was going to be three fantastic days in photographic heaven.
Upon enrolling in this adventure, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect? I simply loved the idea of surrounding myself with like minded photo geeks and getting lost in the creative life for 3 blissful days. I was so excited to shoot, process and talk photography from sunrise to sunset.
Two wonderful instructors took us through the various components of how to improve our photography and the entire experience was tremendous. The surprising element which emerged from the workshop… and one that never entered my mind… was the idea of writing a blog. It wasn’t part of the curriculum, or even a thought, so why would this enter my mind?
On the 2nd or 3rd day of class, a fellow student and I approached the instructor during one of our breaks and she (not me) inquired about writing a blog. It seems she always fancied the idea of penning a few words with pictures. But, in her words, “Who would want to read my blog?” The instructor (who’s name escapes me at the moment), quickly responded, “Who cares as long as YOU enjoy the process!” Hmmm… what an interesting answer was my first thought. He was effectively saying, if 1 or 100,000 people read your blog, what’s the difference as long as you enjoy the creative process?
I’ve always enjoyed writing, but never thought of writing as a hobby or business. My dad was a Journalist back in the day and had a weekly column in the local paper. He wrote in a easy to read style and tried to keep things simple. He wasn’t flowery and didn’t try try to out sophisticate the reader. As a member of MENSA, he had the vocabulary to be sesquipedalian (c’mon… that’s funny?), but thought it implied a certain level of arrogance. He wanted to attract readers… not lose them.
And so it began… I too started a blog about a year later. As I approach the end of my 5th year of blogging, I still find the photography easier than the writing, but consider the overall process enjoyable. I really don’t care if I have 1 reader or 100,000 as I’m not looking to be an Influencer… far from it… and don’t care for endorsements or sponsors. It’s the creative process that fascinates me, so I will continue to post monthly until either it’s not enjoyable anymore or something else fancies my attention.
Perhaps writing a blog is in your future?
Until next time…
Cheers.
New Year - New You!
“Last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s
words await another voice.”
~ T.S. Elliott
In a few short days, 2022 will dissipate into the darkness of night and the festive sounds of auld lang syne will usher in 2023. It’s a joyous time of the year; full of peace & happiness, fond memories and new beginnings.
Having heard the song for 59 years, it always has the same meaning to me… sort of. Gone are the days of celebrating until the wee hours of the morning and banging pots & pans in the street at the stroke of midnight (Did you ever do this? Apparently, it’s an Irish tradition and one celebrated around the world). These days, being awake at midnight is a rare occurrence and either the result of travel plans gone awry or insomnia.
Flipping the calendar from December to January doesn’t have any magical powers and doesn’t come with a reset button (I wish!). It is simply the dawning of a new day… a new year.
It is a good time though to take personal inventory and reflect on life.
Julius Caesar crowned January 1 the 1st day of the new year in honor of Janus, the Roman God of New Beginnings, who could reflect on the prior year and look into the future (Janus had two heads). I tend to reflect on the past and focus on the future… hence; new beginnings.
Fast forward to modern times and perhaps Brad Paisley said it best, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Make it a good one.”
So, if you happen to be a Stephen Covey “7 Habits…” fan, it’s time to be ‘Pro Active,’ ‘Begin with the end in mind' and ‘Sharpen the saw.’
Let’s do everything with purpose and conviction in 2023 as there’s always… always… room for improvement. Can I get an amen?
Until next time - and next year…
Cheers.
My Favorite Instagram Accounts
This months blog will focus on the talent of others. It’s not easy to boil hundreds of uber talented photographers down to a select few as all of them are incredibly gifted and dedicated to their craft.
There are plenty of social media platforms to choose from these days. My Space started the revolution in 2003 and others have joined the fray since then. These days I find myself spending most of my time on Instagram as it seems to be more photography related than the other platforms.
I like various photographers for different reasons and here are my top 10 Instagram feeds at present.
In no particular order… let’s get started.
1. Joe Mcnally (@joemcnallyphoto) A master of his craft. If you ask professional photographers who they admire, Joe’s name is always part of the conversation. Often remembered as the last Staff Photographer at Life Magazine, I think of him as a humble, brilliant photographer always looking to improve (if that’s possible!).
2. Phil Penman (@PhilPenman) A street photographer with a Leica camera isn’t a big deal. If you’re UK born and NY based Phil Penman, thing gets elevated to a different level. His gritty black & white photography of NYC for the last 25+ years is truly impressive.
3. Walter Iooss Jr. (@walteriooss) Considered by many to be the most influential photographer in the sports world, he is credited with shooting the first 52 Super Bowls and has 300+ Sports Illustrated covers to his credit. Enough Said... he’s a legend.
4. Jim Richardson (@jimrichardsonng) One of my favorite National Geographic photographers. He’s a pioneer who’s been shooting for 40+ years. His numerous assignments in Scotland makes him the ‘Go To’ source for images in this part of the world. Earlier this year, I had the privilege to take an iPhone Photography course with Jim and was not disappointed. The endless enthusiasm he shows for his craft is only surpassed by his excitement to learn & experiment.
5. Donald Miralle (@donaldmiralle) For the last 30+ years, Donald Miralle has spanned the globe for the constant variety of sports. Okay… maybe this is the old Wide World of Sports introduction, but they might as well be talking about him. His six (6) World Photography Awards and numerous other recognitions speak for themselves. A former Sports Illustrated Photo Editor was quoted as saying, “He definitely sees things in a different way. He thinks differently. And I think a lot can be learned by other photographers. They’re all at the same event, but nobody else saw the same thing.”
6. Paul Nicklen (@paulnicklen) A Canadian born photographer, filmmaker and Marine Biologist, Paul has documented our changing planet for 20+ years. His ability to link emotional attachment with wild animals in the most extreme climates around the globe is truly remarkable.
7. Lee Cohen (@leecohen_pics) The ski world has a hand full of great action photographers and Utah based Lee Cohen is one of them. Since my days of living in Lake Tahoe (circa 1987), I followed Lee’s epic powder images of Alta & Snowbird in the various ski magazines of the day. His images have the ability to make skiers dream.
8. Bryan Peterson (@bryanfpeterson) As a best selling author & photographer for 35+ years, there aren’t many people who don’t know his name. His books, online photography school (BPSOP) and worldwide workshops are utilized by almost everyone I know. Even though his signature phrase is “You Keep Shooting,” I would argue it should be “I Like Color!” His ability to capture color imagery is brilliant. Whatever the photographic scene, he’ll be sure to come back with the most vivid image(s) imaginable.
9. Keith Ladzinski (@ladzinski) Born in New York and raised in Colorado, Keith is a National Geographic photographer and Emmy nominated Director. He’s worked on all seven continents and focuses on natural history, climate change & extreme sports. His work is truly inspirational.
10. Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard) I don’t think I know anyone with 3.9 million followers on Instagram. Chris is the first one and quick look at his imagery will make you understand why people are fascinated with his photography. An uber talented outdoor & lifestyle enthusiast, he’s captured surfing in the Arctic to mountain biking in Iceland. He’s a Sony Ambassador for obvious reasons.
And there you have it. All the news fit to print on a post Thanksgiving weekend.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The Beauty of Fall 2022
“Forget Summer… When Autumn walks through the door
everyone stops and stares.”
~ Me ~
Harriman State Park in New York straddles Rockland/Orange Counties and is the 2nd largest in the park system. The 32,000 acres of land consist of; 200 hiking trails, 31 lakes & reservoirs , 2 beaches, 2 public camp sites and miles of streams and roads. The park is nothing short of heaven for outdoor enthusiasts.
I’ve spent a tremendous amount of time in the park over the decades… hiking, camping, cycling and of course… taking photographs.
Ironically, I can’t name all my favorite areas, as the park is full of Indian names. I don’t know about you, but as much as I respect our American Indian heritage, remembering the name of lakes such as; Kanawauke, Skanatati, Skenonto, Askoti & Tiorati to name a few is a challenge. I think you’re picking up what I’m laying down. I can find these various lakes; I simply can’t pronounce (or spell) all of them!
A colorful fall 2022 was in question this year. Our summer was hot & dry and drought restrictions were in effect for the month of August & September. Fortunately, a few late summer rain storms added much needed water to the maples, oaks, pines and birch trees that dominate the local landscape. Presto chango… Mother Nature elected to show up in all her glory.
Let’s get to it… here are a few favorite images from 2022.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The World In Motion...
“You gotta move your feet if you want to eat!”
~Anonymous ~
Paris, France - 2021
I can’t remember the first time I heard this expression, but it rings true on so many levels. We live in a world of perpetual motion. Fall behind in your professional or personal growth and life passes you by like a warm breeze on a summers day.
Photographers often face a similar dilemma when it comes to their craft… capture a slice of life with a fast shutter speed or pan your subject and allow for an ocean of motion? There are no right or wrong decisions here. Personal preference comes into play and both will suffice.
Mountain Creek Resort - Vernon, NJ - 2017
Paris, France - 2021
I’ve always enjoyed panning. It doesn’t fit all subjects and genres and thus has to be used selectively to be effective. When done correctly, it can be pure magic and surprise you with a plethora of of color & light streaks you simply couldn’t visualize before snapping the frame.
What exactly is panning some of you might ask? In short… It’s the process of photographing a moving subject with a slow shutter speed. You frame your subject as early as possible in your camera and follow them as smoothly as you can as they pass you. The ideal shutter speed will vary depending on the subject. Personally, I find 1/15th or 1/20th works best for athletes who are running (i.e. football, lacrosse, etc.). Faster moving subjects (i.e. bicycles or cars) usually require shutter speeds of 1/30th, 1/60th or faster. The speed of the subject and amount of blur you desire will dictate the best shutter speed for the desired outcome.
A well executed image can better tell an athletes story. A panned image can bring the viewer into the frame and allow them to feel the speed & agility of a ski racer charging down the mountain at 50-60mph.
Capturing the subject with some form of clarity is usually the end objective. I’d say sharp focus, but this isn’t always the case. We’ve all seen photographs where the amount of blur and color renders the decision as to what the subject is to the viewer. “Art is in the eye of the beholder” comes to mind.
Nyack, NY - 2018
Hollywood, FL - 2015
Winter Park, CO - 2016
Paris, France - 2019