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Art, Well-Being and Health

October 28th, 2023

Art, Well-Being and Health

In the corporate world, considerable resources are dedicated to constructing spaces where people conduct business and strive toward community objectives. We hold high expectations for creativity, productivity, and optimal performance within these environments. However, there is a troubling trend in which the importance of maintaining a healthy, stimulating, and inspirational interior space often goes overlooked, which can inadvertently diminish the spaces' original purpose.

The simple truth, often underestimated, is that both art and architecture wield measurable influence. Any industry reliant on the productivity of individuals can significantly benefit from this fundamental principle. Investments in thoughtfully chosen artwork not only yield a more productive and competitive workforce but also foster a healthier and more spirited community. There may even be fewer sick days, as people coexist more harmoniously when surrounded by expressive and inspiring works of art.

It is disheartening to witness substantial businesses invest millions in constructing structures to house their workforce, only to adorn the walls with cheap or faded poster images in the name of cost savings. This practice is prevalent even in environments like hospitals, where art could be of immeasurable benefit. The truth is that such a cost-cutting approach makes little sense, even from a financial standpoint.

Organizations, regardless of their size, regional culture, or business model, can reap the rewards of well-chosen art. Art is not merely a decorative element; it is an essential component of our lives, one we cannot do without. It has the power to transform spaces into havens of creativity, productivity, and unity, nurturing the best in people and fostering an environment where the human spirit soars.

The transformative power of fine art landscape and nature photography.

June 4th, 2023

The transformative power of fine art landscape and nature photography.

Transform your surroundings from dull and uninviting to vibrant and inspiring. This is the power of landscape and nature art!

As an experienced landscape and nature art seller, I can attest to the transformative effects of well-chosen artwork. Not only does art add elegance and class to any space, but it also has the power to uplift and inspire us in countless ways.

That's why I'm passionate about the landscape and nature art I sell - not only is each piece visually stunning, but it also carries a message that can inspire you to live your best life. Whether you're looking for something to decorate your home, office, or other environment.

But investing in art isn't just about aesthetics - it's also about improving our emotional and mental well-being. By surrounding ourselves with landscape and nature art that speaks to us, we can create an atmosphere that reflects peace and well-being. Plus, the simple act of appreciating art can bring joy and relaxation to even the most stressful of days.

Nature Photography and Legacy

March 10th, 2023

Nature Photography and Legacy

What initially started out as a simple passion for capturing the stunning moments in nature quickly grew into something much larger; something that had the potential for a positive impact on people’s lives. It's been a tremendous experience to learn that my work has become an inspiration for so many, serving to remind viewers of the absolute beauty that lies within our natural world.

At fundraising events, the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Featured my work in slide shows highlighting the South Fork of the Snake River and the largest riparian cottonwood forest in the west. One of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in Idaho. These efforts resulted in over 33 million in donations.

This is a good example of the power of photographic art. History shows that artists were instrumental in developing an awareness that led to the preservation of national treasures like Yosemite, Teton, Glacier, and Yellowstone National Parks. Millions of acres in the USA, and globally, have been preserved following awareness campaigns that included fine art photography.

It goes to show how powerful a role fine art nature photography can have. Through showcasing the beauty of nature, a photographer can bring joy to others, raise awareness of conservation, and inspire a greater appreciation of the environment.

Fine art nature photography can also help people in their creative projects, or provide education on the wonders of the world around us.

Knowing what to photograph

February 21st, 2023

Knowing what to photograph


Knowing what to photograph by Leland Howard

Knowing what to photograph is like the process involved in other mediums. How does a painter know what to paint or how does the musician know what to play? Mostly it’s what moves you. Photographically if you care about the subject, it will show in the work.

Of course conditions, weather, and assignment contracts play a big role. If I’m not under a contract obligation, then experience that allows for hopefully maximizing opportunities comes into play. However, explaining the requirements for knowing where and what to photograph might perpetuate the common myth that once in a location, the tool (camera) does the work.

Take for example your cold winter day with a sky full of stars and sparkling snow. What can the artist create that will do this justice? Remember how you felt looking at that scene. Did you wonder if it was possible to create something, a piece of art, which would make a viewer feel something similar?

An artist may never do nature justice, but we can find some gratification in the challenge. Occasionally an image will be created that at least can be described as worthy.

I’m never completely satisfied with an image. If I were, this could show a point of stagnation and one thing an artist must do is continue to grow. I can say I accomplish what is necessary, especially when under contract, but otherwise the goal is never so concrete that would allow me to say that I accomplish what I set out to do. There are too many variables. Sometimes I’m able to create something better than what I was visualizing for an area simply because of conditions like the quality of the light or the balance of a scene. Other times (far too many) the opposite is true.

Here is something to think about. Instead of calling it taking pictures, try calling it creating an image or painting with light. You’re not taking anything and all you are recording is light - all we see is light. Objects, color, and contrast become apparent because of how light reacts with the elements in an environment.

I don’t always know where to go but educated guesses are very helpful. Since I specialize in the wilderness, seasons play a role. Then simple things can also help like topo maps. By studying the terrain on a map, I can often tell what areas would have the most potential in different light conditions. Also, I will often travel to the same area many times over to learn it and get a feel for when conditions might be right.

Having said this I can tell you it is also fun to just hit the road and see what I find. Many times I don’t where I will end up. This is a good feeling, I guess it’s freedom. I can burn sometimes and have to stop because of exhaustion in a place that’s nothing to write home about but I live for the times I come upon a spectacular place. I’ve seen some amazing things in my life and very often they’re not in the most famous places.

Image Processing

February 21st, 2023

Image Processing

Raw files are lifeless data. So they require some sort of processing to get an image similar to how the human eye perceives color, and shadow and highlights detail, clarity, etc. I prefer the word “processing” because it is like processing a negative and printing in an old-style darkroom. I do this processing via software. There are many software versions with a huge overlap in function. I use Hasselblad medium format sensors, so for the screen work, I begin with Phocus since they specifically designed it for these files. The rest of the workflow (screen and field) is image dependent, complex, and as intricate as learning to play a musical instrument, both in a technical and artistic sense. Naming the other software used for screen work in the workflow is kind of meaningless. Here is what is important; Field and screen work are not separate, very much like Ansel Adams’s zone system. It is an artistic workflow from field to screen to the ultimate piece that functions as one. This comparison is important for many reasons, including—regardless of the quality of camera systems today, the sensors are very limited compared to the human eye, and I frequently push the limits.

Professional Landscape Art

February 21st, 2023

Professional Landscape Art

In landscape art, hopefully, an image has something to say about an environment or maybe it reflects an emotional reaction to a scene. Regardless, the sensor (or film) is the canvas and light is the brush.

Fine Art Nature Photography

February 21st, 2023

Fine Art Nature Photography

The term for what I specialize in is referred to as fine art nature photography. When I’m asked how I got started doing this, I can’t pronounce momentous events, sudden inspirations, or a mentor experience. I’m not even sure when I first picked up a camera. For me, this experience has been more like a lifetime of learning with dedication and practice. Similar to the commitment required for becoming an accomplished musician, painter, sculptor, or professional in other chosen mediums.

Leland Howard

February 21st, 2023

Leland Howard

Image of Leland Howard with Wisner 4x5 view camera. Even though a camera is just the tool used in this trade, the question most often asked is “what camera do you use”? So here goes, I’ve used a lot of different equipment over the years and one of my favorites was a Wisner 4x5 Technical Field. I lugged it around coupled with a wooden Reis tripod for about 15 years. When Hasselblad introduced their medium format D series, I made the switch but I care little if someone uses an 11x14 view camera or an iPhone, what’s important to me is the work. I just choose equipment to fit my style.

Doing a landscape justice

February 21st, 2023

Doing a landscape justice

Capturing the grandeur of a large landscape scene can be one of the hardest challenges. Far too often the magnificence is lost when rendered on a small two-dimensional plane. A lifetime is spent in search of ideal conditions along with beautiful light that might create the illusion of a three-dimensional space. This clearing storm in Zion National Park of southern Utah was just such an opportunity. I refer to it sometimes as the attempt to do a landscape justice. When the conditions are right, everything has to be done correctly in what can be a brief period. Over the decades, I’ve missed far more opportunities than I’ve been successful at. It’s the nature of the game and the learning process.

The positive side of art and the significance of a display

February 21st, 2023

The positive side of art and the significance of a display

Over the years I have visited hundreds of businesses large and small involved in about everything you could imagine. An unbelievable amount of corporate money is spent creating structures for people to conduct business or whatever. We expect humans to create, work, and function at their best in the interior environments of these buildings. What I find disturbing is how often so we pay little attention to creating a healthy, stimulating, and inspirational interior space.

Here is a simple yet often overlooked reality. Art influences us. Just about any industry that requires people will benefit if they pay attention to this basic principle. Investments in wisely chosen artwork can cause a much more productive, healthy, competitive, and spirited group of individuals. There may even be fewer sick days and people get along with each other better when surrounded by expressive and moving works of art. A large business might spend multi millions on a structure to house a workforce and then cover the walls with cheap and even faded images on poster paper under the guise of cost savings.

Believe it or not, I’ve seen this happen in hospitals where art could be of enormous benefit. It makes no sense. In the past, I have seen so many offices, work areas, etc. that are depressing and one could even describe them as painful to enter. When I require a service, I do what I can to avoid these places and I know others do the same. Imagine the effect it must have on employees who have to spend what could be a fairly large portion of their life in a place where what makes us human is denied.

What a difference a relatively small investment can make. It didn’t bother me to wait for help in my local cell phone provider’s building. There were at least a few nicely produced landscape works on the walls that I enjoyed looking at. It’s obvious that the marketing agents for this company decided on what they see as remote landscape art to promote their signal coverage. I kind of doubt they realized the other positive effects this display would produce. Some corporations have realized how important the arts are when designing an environment to house people. It seems to happen more often in larger population centers and resorts. There really isn’t a valid reason for this happening more in these areas, most organizations can realize the benefits regardless of location, regional culture, or attitudes.

Art is not something we live with; it’s something we can’t live without. Leland Howard

Film and Now

February 21st, 2023

Film and Now

Captured on medium format film a few decades ago. There are more lights in the Snake River Valley of east Idaho now. Over time, as technologies developed, first allowing for home office drum scanning, then later adequately combining of images into panoramic. Film will always remain quite a struggle in comparison. Dust spotting alone is time-consuming and even larger film sizes like medium format still created a kind of noise and what I describe as color blobs. Although it takes more work, I can now minimize these problems satisfactorily more easily than say just five years ago.

Noise was less of a problem in 4x5 inch and larger film but factors like dust spotting regardless of prep could take a couple of hours per image. Some talk about several major aspects we lost in all the transitions, and I agree. Still, if I use a 4x5 field system, it’s more for nostalgia. The hand-crafted 4x5 Wisner Classic on a Reiss Tripod stays in my living room as a decorative piece of art.

Sawtooth Wilderness Adventure

October 9th, 2022

Sawtooth Wilderness Adventure

I’m now able to communicate more effectively with wilderness hikers, and here is the important stuff learned just last week: First, hiking style categorization is necessary. For example, hiking off the trail is “type 2”. This will allow you to guess what type 1 and type 3 represent. Second, what was once called climbing mountains, which later morphed into bagging peaks, is now called “doing a peak.” So, when you encounter other hikers staring at their phones, and they say, “we’re gunna type 2 and do a peak,” you can now respond. An “oh nice, ya!” is good. This provides validation so everyone can move on with a “have a good one.” An expression like “awesome” is outdated and would seem fake. Don’t be a dinosaur like me and just hike and climb mountains.

I should also cover, depending on your perspective, another potential hazard. While type 1-ing, it is possible to stumble on a photo shoot in progress that some would consider; how should I say this? Less than reputable? I know, I know, I said, “some people.” Who am I to judge? Just continue your journey pretending you noticed nothing some would consider unusual, and offer a friendly smile and a hi. This works especially well if they smile and say a warm hi first. By the way, it appears in certain conditions; a backpacking puffy is sufficient for warmth despite having nothing on below. Gotta love new technology. I assume plenty of bug repellent was on hand.

People are far kinder while in a wilderness setting. Lots of smiling and compliments are the norm. It was surprising to receive some personal compliments in passing, like “I really like your mustache.” Anyway, have fun out there and enjoy the wild in the Sawtooth Wilderness of central Idaho.

Hollingshead Ranch Tetons Idaho Side

August 12th, 2022

Hollingshead Ranch Tetons Idaho Side

I’m fortunate to have a first-hand history of this homestead written by Bernard L. Oberlander. It was his uncles, Miles and Karl Hollingshead that filed a claim for this 160-acre plot on the Idaho side of the Tetons in1910. Oberlander explained the details of everyday existence. Including their routines winter and summer while living in what must have seemed a remote and extraordinary place. In many ways, it is still remote and remains no less extraordinary. The earlier log cabins are nearby and I’m not sure when this cabin was built. The concrete foundation on the right is where an old-style windmill once stood. The Teton Land Trust and others have had a hand in preservation and artists need to get permission to paint or take photographs from the current landowner.

Castle Lake White Cloud Wilderness Idaho

August 12th, 2022

Castle Lake White Cloud Wilderness Idaho

The seldom visited Castle Lake in the White Cloud Wilderness area, central Idaho. Alpine glow images are common and may even seem cliche to some but, I will never tire of watching it happen. Anxious anticipation is the norm for me. I drag my sleeping bag out of the tent, drape it over me, sit against a log, sip on a coffee and wait until it is close while listening to the silence. I wonder how many have noticed: in the right conditions, even on a cloudless morning, mountain peaks glow briefly in what I just call a pre-sunrise. Before the sun hits the horizon, the light reflects off particles in the sky. This muted glow might only last for about a minute before things get darker again. Then it starts over, getting lighter just before the warm glow we are so familiar with. I usually let the pre-dawn glow go by and just watch it happen. A nice show before I get moving.

Kebler Pass

September 28th, 2021

Kebler Pass

Kebler Pass Colorado, a fabled route for those sometimes dismissed as “leaf Peepers”. By venturing into the forest called the largest single organism on the continent, I was able to find what I envisioned — huge aspens, straight and tall. It was a real treat to walk under them. Ethereal is an apt description yet a unique experience compared to giant redwoods. Light and colorful, as in Colorful Colorado. I can’t recommend driving the Kebler Pass road, especially during peak autumn color. Despite the (lightly) traveled classification, to me this description is only right if compared to I-15, but I’m biased. Before peak color, I still needed a trek into the woods as a respite from boiling dust and vehicle dodging. A discovery surrounded by silence proved beneficial. Aspens as a single organism blanket, Gunnison National Forest hillsides, and canyons, however, not every group of sprouts displays a unique thriving form.

Logan Nevada

May 24th, 2021

Logan Nevada

Another silver state surprise. An artsy fireplace in the back of beyond. Evidence implies some of the later inhabitants of this ghost town were of unique character, inspired, or something else depending on interpretation. A variety of bricks, some concrete plus nearby stone, provided the canvas for a fireplace like no other.

The carefully fashioned walls are only of white sandstone gathered from a nearby bluff. But don’t stop there. Why not also paint every wall stone a different earth tone and then outline them with black where the motor holds them in place? Unfortunately, the characteristics of sandstone and of course weather caused much of the wall color to deteriorate. You can get a better idea of what the walls looked like under the fireplace mantel where it is more protected. It must have been quite a sight.

I suppose they might have considered it an experience to sit and watch a flickering fire glow bounce off multi-colored wall stones. Hmm, well, if given the opportunity, to me it would seem healthier to observe and not absorb. Maybe all the overly bright earth tones represented hues of the nearby cliffs or overall landscape. They are extensive, a fact I became more aware of after pondering this creation.

There’s more. They adorned the cabinet doors with perhaps a representation of the stars. It’s hard to say for sure based on the artwork, but with zero light pollution in such an isolated place, no doubt they took pleasure in the night sky as I did. Only two of the painted doors remain. I guess some (art fans) found the other doors theft-worthy. More of the work has fallen too senseless destruction. So much better if everything was just left alone for natural Wabi-sabi fading. Although the home/art project is now completely roofless, the fireplace is still in good working order, so it seemed an idea to build a fire for this image. I hope the spirits of artists’ past didn’t mind. Heat poured out with no smoke.

And in case you're thinking, I spent the night — no way. My camp nearby provided comfort without varmint infestation.

Beauty of Stone Agate

May 24th, 2021

Beauty of Stone Agate

These extraordinary and colorful patterns were discovered in rare Idaho gemstones. The official name for the stone is agate, which as a mineral variety is not all that rare, but incredible mineral assemblages and depositional textures like these are very rare. In fact, preliminary investigations by geologists show a one-of-kind discovery, unmatched anywhere on earth in texture, form, and color. Specialized equipment is used to cut the stone into slabs, revealing astonishingly intricate shapes and forms. These remarkable designs were naturally created in the Alder Creek Eruptive Center of the Challis Volcanics. Intrusive magma served as a heat source that created a convective (rising) mineral-bearing solution that interacted with the surrounding rock. Temperature, pressure and chemically controlled reactions between the mineral-bearing solutions and the surrounding rock wall resulted in the deposits that eventually hardened within open spaces or cracks in an epithermal (hot springs like) system. Temperature and pressure variations created a wide variety of textures and forms that can resemble impressionistic landscape paintings. An exquisite example of art in nature.

The measurable effects of art.

March 7th, 2021

The measurable effects of art.

We spend an astounding amount of corporate money creating structures in which people conduct business and pursue community goals. We expect human beings to be creative, to work, and to function at their best in the interior environments of these buildings. And yet, disturbingly often, little attention in maintaining a healthy, stimulating, and inspirational interior space results in their original purpose being dampened.

The simple, yet often overlooked reality, is that art and architecture have measurable effects. Any industry that relies on the productivity of human beings will benefit if we pay attention to this basic principle. Investments in wisely chosen artwork alone result in a more productive, healthy, competitive, and spirited group of individuals. There may even be fewer sick days, and people get along with each other better when surrounded by expressive and moving works of art.

An extensive business might spend millions on structures to house a workforce and then cover the walls with cheap or faded poster images under the guise of cost savings. This is standard practice, even in hospitals, where art could be of enormous benefit. It makes no sense, even in financial terms.

Organizations can reap the benefits of well-chosen art regardless of population size, regional culture, or business model. 

Art is not something we live with, it’s something we can’t live without.

Anti-crepuscular Rays

November 24th, 2019

Anti-crepuscular Rays

Last July on the Continental Divide looking west into Idaho pre-sunrise, which means these light rays are anti-crepuscular — opposite of the sun. The convergence to a vanishing point is a visual illusion created by distance, same as looking down a railroad track where the lines seem to converge. Capturing them on a two-dimensional surface might spark some further pondering. Anyway, the anti version is almost always much dimmer than the counterpart but I’ve witnessed this a few times at high altitudes.

Berlin Nevada Ghost Town

November 18th, 2019

Berlin Nevada Ghost Town

Early 20th century truck in the ghost town of Berlin in central Nevada. Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park is called a hybrid park since it consists of the old town and some ancient fossil grounds in the nearby hills. Berlin is one of several towns that sprung up after a major ore vein called Union Ledge was discovered in the 1850s. A few residents remain in some of the other towns but history records Berlin as abandoned since 1911. It’s remarkable how much of it remains, this is largely due to some pretty heroic preservation efforts

Fog

September 2nd, 2019

Fog

Many see fog, clouds, and mist as kind of depressing or cold. For me not only does it lend depth but also feelings of calm and quiet. There is a trail in the forest below where one can make silent steps on soft needles under huge old-growth trees. This is a true old-growth forest with an ecosystem all its own in the tip of Idaho near Canada.

Clearwater National Forest History

August 25th, 2019

Clearwater National Forest History

This is an area of historical significance in the Clearwater National Forest of northern Idaho. It’s a section of the Lewis and Clark route and the place were later 350 soldiers led by General Howard suffered from lack of experience in rugged mountain travel while chasing 750 Native Americans. Being much more accustomed to mountain travel, the Nez Perce outran Howard and his crew by 5 days, anyway, this is one historical timeline. What seems to be clear is Howard didn’t catch them in this country and the suffering of his group becomes apparent upon observing some of the older trees still showing the scars of stripped bark, the only thing they had to feed their horses. Unfortunately, after running for survival and making it through the mountains, the Nez Perce were slaughtered in the area now called Battle of the Bighorn by a different calvary group. This, in general, seems to be the course of events, details are sometimes debated similar to fine details regarding the Lewis and Clark expedition through this region. My work consisted of watching and trying to capture a sunrise over a vast dense forest, mountain layers, and steep canyons.

Jarbidge Nevada

August 5th, 2019

Jarbidge Nevada

Some say Jarbidge Nevada is the most remote town in the lower 48 states however, this isn’t the only claim to fame. It might be where the last stagecoach robbery in the US took place. The speed limit is 10 MPH on the dirt road through the town which you might expect is called Main. Apparently, a few dozen year-round residents keep the place in check. There are some tiny art and gift shops and the people I encountered offered a friendly wave.

Thousand Creek Gorge Nevada

April 12th, 2018

Thousand Creek Gorge Nevada

Thousand Creek Gorge, northern Nevada. Hiking in the gorge requires some painful brush busting through head high rose bushes with needle-like thorns and some avoidance of poisonous plants. So overall a good experience with a few small wounds that will heal. Shorts and sandals are out of the question. Some narrow sections are boulder choked resulting in a few murky cascades and pools. Making this water drinkable would necessitate some serious settling and filtering — still questionable in my view so an overnight stay would be hard. Wildlife includes pigeons and raptors so it isn’t always silent as their utterances resonate off the cliffs. A shuttle could be arranged and it can be hiked from either direction. If raining, the roads to the canyon entrances are likely to be wicked mud.

Black Magic Canyon

March 28th, 2018

Black Magic Canyon

Black Magic Canyon in south central Idaho. Sad to say some of the formations are now showing signs of graffiti and vandalism. I wonder sometimes if it would have been better to not show any photographs of this unique and amazing place but for the most part - as usual, awareness wins that debate for obvious reasons.
I spent more time in a deeper section during this last trip and became aware of something I hadn't fully realized before. Although the dominant colors in the carved basalt are of course black, gloss black and gray, light reflected off adjacent rock reveals different color hues ranging from light blue, to tan and sometimes varying shades of purple. It would take a much better writer than I to adequately describe the color changes depending on the angles of reflected light in this canyon that is an exquisite example of art in nature.
Over a period of about ten thousand years, the Big Wood River carved these sculpted forms in the hard basalt. So, someone in this time comes along and chisels their name and some verbal garbage - I would suggest not doing that.
Very Important information if you plan a visit: The water is now controlled by the Big Wood Canal Co. in Shoshone and the canyon is full during the irrigation season so early spring and fall are clearly the best times to visit. If you plan a visit you must call the canal company first. If you are in the canyon when they release water from the dam, it would be like a southwest flash flood in a slot canyon and there would no escaping. The number to call is 1-208-886-233.

Cloud

March 28th, 2018

Cloud

Montana, east, The famous wild horse, known as Cloud in the Pryor Mountains. This wild horse, given the name Cloud as a newborn colt by Ginger Kathrens when she did the PBS Nature series, has become kind of famous and his likeness is painted on the walls of buildings in the small towns beneath the Pryor Mountains. He was still an impressive and strong horse in 2012 when I made this image of him. He got very comfortable with my presence in a short time, which surprised me a little. I suspect the legend will live on for quite some time.

Painted Hills Oregon

March 28th, 2018

Painted Hills Oregon

Oregon, north-central, Geological formations aptly referred to as the Painted Hills in the John Day National Monument area. Years ago when I first started displaying images from here, the colors, shapes and patterns seemed unbelievable to some and were at times dismissed as unreal. As the area became more popular, that kind of skepticism has been subdued. Weather conditions, moisture content and of course time of day can dramatically change the tones, color density and hues. This phenomenon can also lead to comments like “I’ve been there and it doesn’t look like that”. The terminology that I like to use is art in nature and in this case, the look is related to geological eras including floodplain deposits from when this region of Oregon was warm and humid. Laterite soil (deposits rich in iron and aluminum) account for the reds, whereas the blacks are identified as lignite - a low-grade coal formed by the compression of partially decayed vegetation (Peat). The other more typical grey coloring is shale, mudstone or siltstone. Then there are the mixtures that vary from gold to yellow and may even appear a light blue under the right lighting conditions. Overall it was a unique set of events that created this magnificent place.

Beautiful Art and culture

February 2nd, 2016

Beautiful Art and culture

Despite possible cultural pressures, one shouldn't be apologetic when enjoying natural beauty as subject matter in an art form. It is an island of respite in a world focused on tragedy. Beauty and nature offer the kind of hope and uplift we need for balance and health.

Home

February 4th, 2015

Home

Autumn view from the Cress Creek Preserve. Idaho is my home state and sometimes I can receive a little bereavement from residents when I travel and work in other states or regions. I think for the most part though people do understand what it takes to make a living at this and then of course there is the added benefits of exploration and adventurous travel. Still, it's always a pleasure to represent Idaho when I can, after all it is home and without question, a great place to live.

Better

December 18th, 2012

Better

Recently, while giving a talk, I was ask: "What makes your photography better than others"?. The question caught me a bit off guard because I don't think in terms of being better than others. For me its about sharing a vision and maybe along the way if I could raise awareness, that would be a positive contribution. So I just do what I can and it's gratifying to learn when I have helped someone gain a better appreciation of our brief moment in the sun.

Epson International Award

May 10th, 2011

Epson International Award

Bronze award winner in the Epson International Photographic Pano Awards

Less photographed Places

April 21st, 2011

Less photographed Places

I look for areas that have different and far less photographed perspectives such as this view of the cliffs of Zion National Park from the BLM land just adjacent. It pays off sometimes with unique work and another advantage is not having to fight the crowds.

Cress Creek Nature Trail and Preserve

March 31st, 2011

Cress Creek Nature Trail and Preserve

The Cress Creek Nature Trail and preserve in east Idaho is becoming increasingly popular. The BLM has so far procured about 24 million for land easements, trail and bridge work at this site using my work in slide shows. It's a nice place to go for a hike, is less than an hours drive from Idaho Falls and the trail offers great views of the Snake River. Cress Creek itself is a wetland and spring on the side of the mountain with nice cascades and Cottonwood trees.