Walk a Mile in My Shoes

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2011-11-27T15:49:00.001-05:00

Good Day From Iraq

I am Sgt John Beckman, an American Combat Soldier group of 50,000, 00 combatant, left behind in Iraq for advisory and assistance to Iraq Forces after the Handing over to Iraq Peace Keeping Force, During my services, I was би_n able to secure Twenty Million Dollar($20 million U.S Dollars) which already Deposited with a Diplomatic Company for security and Safety Purpose,

I want to hand over this funds to a Trust Worth Person that we help me keep it till I am back from the Camp in Baghdad Iraq in Dec 2011, Since Our Final Troops is leaving Iraq 2011.

You will find the story of this money on the web address below. After we have sum-mated the remaining part http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/2967029.stm
Please kindly keep this transaction Confidential because I am still serving in the Military camp in Baghdad Iraq.

Sgt.John Beckman.
Email:johnbkm02@hotmail.com

Please visit my new blog and read the previous post, thank you.

2011-03-01T20:29:00.001-05:00

Please visit my new blog. http://snapsnapzoom.blogspot.com

CHANGE IS GOOD - Hello Friends, Fans, and Family - Snap, Snap, Zoom is Born

2011-02-26T12:00:00.029-05:00

They say change is good. Well, I have found myself having to make a major Blogging change. I have had this blog for three years and suddenly I find I have reached a quota for picture uploading that I did not know existed. It likely comes from loading to large pictures. They allow you 1 gig and I had to delete that to upload my last photo post.

I find now I need to create a new blog and start over so that I can continue the challenge and my own personal blog. I am not very happy about it.

Here is the new address: http://snapsnapzoom.blogspot.com/
Please update your links, I will keep an eye on this blog and provide link backs on occasion to it as well. I am still working on the details and plan on making it closely resemble this one. I apologize as we go along ahead of time as I may occasionally vent my frustrations with this process.

I am adding a NEW Learn About Photography page to my blog to share with you what I have learned. I want to help others learn and spread the knowledge about how I do things, why and likely some of my many thoughts and opinions there too.

Don't forget I am also on Facebook too.

If you also use Blogger you need to be aware of these restrictions on size. I had in my mind it was unlimited. I didn't read very well. What happens is that every image you have on blogger resides in Picasa. When you reach your Picasa limit, well you arrive in this situation. Delete or move on. Now I will resize my images much smaller so it doesn't happen so fast. I realize I could have purchased space, but I choose not to incur costs. I could go in and delete all the older archived materials, but I don't want to do that. I do have my own domain names, which I could also use, which will require some amount of work I cannot commit to right now. So here I am.

Here is the link on restrictions in blogger so you can be wary if you are getting close.
Size restrictions in Blogger

Join me here for continued blogging and pictures as well as my artwork. I will also have to make all my connections to everyone's blog, you will notice the additions. I have 55 followers that I hope each and everyone will come with me along with lots of new friends too.

Thank you and please follow me into my new home for blogging...... http://snapsnapzoom.blogspot.com/

I have disabled comments here so that you can come to Snap Snap Zoom and tell me what you think.

Change is good, I swear........grrrrrrrr.

P is for Pink, Petals, Pretty, Picture, Precious, Pristine.........

2011-02-22T21:07:00.000-05:00

Three -Unusual Orchid

2011-02-22T19:37:00.000-05:00

Many of the Orchids are a bit unusual. This one had three petals at the top and the little pocket part at the bottom. The colors are nice as well. Sort of Hokie colors, if any one out there is a Hokie fan (Virginia Tech Hokies).

Bloom - Amaryllis

2011-02-21T19:55:00.000-05:00

I couldn't wait any more for some blooms, I went to the botannical garden and got some shots of the forced blooms that were on display. This is an amaryllis not quite in full bloom. Love the colors.

Orange - More of South of the Border

2011-02-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

I assume this might have been a grizzly, but someone thought grizzlys would look good in a coat of orange.

Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny - Sign of Spring

2011-02-19T09:33:00.000-05:00

My first spring flower, awwww its a sign of spring. It only measured about 1/2 inch of so, and I didn't immediately see it without my glasses on, LOL.

CIty or Town - Terri Goes South of the Border

2011-02-19T09:15:00.001-05:00

I have been traveling up and down I95 for a long time and never once stopped at South of the Border. Its your ultimate world of tackiness for travelers. It is the border between North and South Carolina, in disguise as Mexico, LOL.

I love roosters and could not resist these. And then who could forget your guide for this tacky tour, Pedro.

Architecture - GW Masonic Temple Memorial - Low Light Photography Meetup Group

2011-02-13T01:01:00.000-05:00

For the Low Light Photography Meetup this week, we traveled to Alexandria, VA. We visited the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Here are some pictures of the streets, the building and the lower columns.

Spiral

2011-02-10T22:30:00.000-05:00

Spiral definition: winding around a center or pole and gradually receding from or approaching it.

Reflections - How many are there?

2011-02-09T22:05:00.000-05:00

I love reflections in the glass storefronts. Of course this one had red in it so its even better. How many reflections are here? The brick building in the storefront, the tree in the mirror, the sky in the brick building windows and ?

Furniture - Extra Large Size

2011-02-08T18:58:00.000-05:00

When I was younger in Washington, DC, there was a furniture store that had a big chair out front. I used to look for it and got so excited when I saw it. I used to dream of sitting in it. The chair is gone, moved to another location now. But when I was training in Martinsville, yesterday, I saw this. I slammed the brakes and pulled up to it. Almost like the one I remember, Its to commemorate the town's years of furniture manufacturing. I still didn't get to sit on it but it sure brought back a lot of memories.

Front Doors - Photography Meet-Up Group

2011-02-05T23:04:00.001-05:00

I belong to several different Photo Meetup Groups. Its great fun meeting with other photographers and sharing experience and techniques. If you don't belong to one of the Meetup Groups in your area, check out and find one that you like. There are meetups for nearly any topic, not just photography. Meetup Groups in your area.

Today our group met in Fredericksburg, VA at the Hyperion Espresso. It was cold and misting rain, but more than 10 of us ventured out to find Doors, Door Knobs, and Door Knockers. Here are some of the "front doors" I captured.

On a Farm - Wakefield's Little Herd of Sheep

2011-02-04T23:04:00.000-05:00

The Letter T - T is for Toast

2011-02-04T22:02:00.000-05:00

At Wakefield, George Washington's childhood home, toast was done a little differently. Without electricity the kitchen hearth was the original toaster. Hmmm I think I will keep my 4-slice extra wide bagel toaster with settings for light to dark to frozen and everything in between.

W - Facing West (not to steal your thunder Steven)

2011-02-02T20:47:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we learned the Cormorants had to dry their wings after a swim, before they flew. Here is some more of what they do. They all "Face West" with the sun on their backs, even the sea gulls join in this session. Its so funny looking at all of them facing in the same direction.

Primary Colors and the Rest of the Story

2011-02-01T19:56:00.002-05:00

I conducted a training for teachers in Colonial Beach, VA/MD. The / is due to the state line is drawn just over the water from the shoreline. Its located at the Potomac River, not far from Pope's Creek where I was a week or so ago.

The bird is the Double-crested Cormorant is found near rivers, lakes and along the coastline. It mainly eats fish and hunts by swimming and diving. Its feathers, like those of all cormorants, are not waterproof and it must spend time drying them out after spending time in the water.

The red and white boat is a Range Control boat. Well, up to 2 seconds ago I had no idea what this boat was or did, but I just made the connection. That day there were large booms in the background and I figured them to be a local fort carrying on war games of some sort. Then when I found the info on the boat, I put the two together. Take a read and see what I mean. http://www.navsea.navy.mil/nswc/dahlgren/RANGE/boating.aspx Now I feel paranoid about taking pictures of the boat. Hope they aren't watching me even now.

Wow and this was about a theme of primary colors, the red boat, the yellow on the pilon, and the blue of the land in the background and sky. They seem so belittled by the rest of the story.........

Goniochromism aka Iridescense.......Who new?

2011-01-31T19:17:00.000-05:00

Iridescence (also known as goniochromism) is generally known as the property of certain surfaces which appear to change colour as the angle of view or the angle of illuminaton changes. From Wikipedia.

The Case of Losing Focus .......No Theme, No Focus

2011-01-31T17:11:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when you see something, it changes, you attempt to refocus, it changes again, refocus, repeat. There were so many good things about this picture when I picked up the camera. The white gull against the black birds, birds flying, bird on the top of the post, others flying, the pier. What ended up in focus? I am still looking but I think its the pier, ugh......can I just rewind and try it again.

Oh yea and one more thing, why is the river pouring out the right side of the picture? Yea I may be my worst critic, but maybe someone else can figure out what the heck I was doing here, LOL. Its good for a laugh anyway.

Tools of the Trade - The Blacksmith's Shop

2011-01-30T21:26:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the tools in the blacksmith's shop at Wakefield.

Childhood - GWs Childhood Home - Wakefield

2011-01-30T13:39:00.000-05:00

This was George's place until the age of 3 and is now a national monument and national park in Westmoreland County. The house actually a replica built after the original burned a long time ago. It was a tobacco plantation of over 550 acres too. Much of the furniture is age relevant and it is built to my understanding on or right at the original foundation. The grounds boast a kitchen, blacksmith's shop, stables, slave residences, and gardens of flowers and vegetation true to the time period as well. All looking out onto Pope's Creek.

The sheep I took pics of previously also live here along with pigs, chickens, horses, cows, ducks, geese and others. I found a document of all the birds that have been seen in the area, as its right on the creek and river. http://www.nps.gov/gewa/naturescience/index.htm.

The 2nd is of some leftover tobacco in the barn. The caretaker says its of little use now except decoration as its been out too long. It is apparently unlawful to grow tobacco for personal use, I didn't know that, its considered a controlled substance.

Red - My Favorite Color

2011-01-28T01:55:00.000-05:00

Most of you know how I feel about the color red.....it just is me and that's all. The only thing that comes close to how much I like red is how much I like my 105mm lens. Ahhhhhhhh macros, and red macros at that. Shhhh....don't tell anyone I used the secret weapon. Everyone should have it in their camera bag. Do you know what it is?

Translucent - Snow and Long Exposure

2011-01-26T21:05:00.000-05:00

I was trying to get a long exposure of the snow. Well not exactly what I expected but with an interesting effect either way. Seems some flakes landed on the lens and they are pretty "translucent". Back to the "learn your settings" drawing board, ha ha.

Black - Baa Baa Black Sheep, Have You Any Wool?

2011-01-24T23:32:00.000-05:00

This lamb was so cute. I followed the little herd of them all around the farm. Every time I got close the lambs they ran to the ewes. They were curious about the "crazy lady with the camera". If you look close you can even see his little horns on the top of his head.

Rooster "Body Parts" - Q & A

2011-01-24T23:09:00.004-05:00

Q--What is a rooster comb used for?

A--The roosters comb is like a tiny radiator. Blood comes close to the surface at the comb and wattles and air passing over these helps cool the blood. The comb and wattles also act as attractants to the females, a rooster with a good healthy comb is a potentially good mate.

Q--What are rooster wattles?

A--The wattle of a chicken is the colored flap of skin under the beak of the bird. The comb is the same type of skin on the top of the birds head. Both the wattle and comb have two functions. Chickens do not sweat, the chickens wattle & comb serves as a cooling method whereas the blood circulating inside the bird is close to the surface of these areas and is cooled by ambient temperatures. The other use of these appendages is to attract members of the opposite sex for breeding. A rooster with a strong healthy wattle and comb is likely to produce good strong offspring.

Airborne - Reagan International Airport, DC ..... Look and Enlarge

2011-01-23T11:46:00.000-05:00

I belong to a "meetup" group for Low Light and Night Photography. We went on an excursion to Crystal City and Reagan International Airport in DC. Here are a couple of my shots. Please note I am totally in learning mode about this Low Light/Night thing. Some of these are a little noisy and I am just figuring it all out. Oh and did I mention the temperature was about 20 degrees? A few things were a little frozen, like my fingers.

You will need to click too enlarge to see what these are all about.

They are long exposures from 15-30 seconds, taken in manual mode with a 17-55mm lens. of planes taking off and landing near our Nation's Capital. The trails are of the lights on the planes not the actual planes, that is what is so cool. Note all the colors red, green, white.

Action Shot - Waterfall

2011-01-21T18:43:00.000-05:00

Ok you ask, what is that and how did she do it?

It is a small stream with waterfall at the botannical gardens. I took 2 pictures. The first was of just the basic scene with waterfall. The 2nd is of the exact same scene but I manually "zoomed out" really fast as I clicked the button. Then I duplicated the background layer, and overlayed the two photos in Photoshop, then used the "lighten" blending mode with minor edits in saturation, hue and contrast.

Camera stats:
Exposure time 1/30 second
f22
ISO 100
Focal length 17mm

What do you think? I did several of these so I may show another once soon.

Amazing - World's Largest Peach - Gaffney, SC

2011-01-19T20:47:00.010-05:00

Today after work in SC,I played tourist for a little while in Gaffney, SC. If any of you have ever traveled on I85 north or south you might have seen what has to be the "world's largest peach". Its the water tower for Gaffney and looks exactly like a peach in color and shape. I have always liked it when I drove by, but today went hunting for the road to get close to it. I probably broke some unposted law by getting so close to it, but there was no fence and no signs for the Gaffney Department of Public Works. So here you go.

Repeating Pattern - Popes Creek

2011-01-18T22:22:00.000-05:00

Although its a creek there is still influence of the river and on to the bay. The waves really effect the shoreline with sand and bits of shells and other debris and it moves right into these ripples all across the shoreline between some of the marsh grasses.

Textured - Leezard Leezard Leezard

2011-01-18T14:56:00.000-05:00

Well I caught this one today, not part of GW's birthplace.

I stopped by the Science Center in Greenville, SC which is closed to the general public except for school children. I said I was only in town for a short time and they let me make a quick run through. I discovered there is an observatory and nature trail and other cool stuff for kids, even a mini rainforest.

I saw this Iguana and loved his texture and variances in his skin. I do wish I could have held him. They are pretty cool creatures.

The nature trail provided so many great examples of texture(s)(ed). I look at all my images at 100% to verify the quality and when I did I could identify probably 15 or 20 different textures in this shot. Moss, lichens, bark, pine needles, what else?

Isn't nature the most amazing thing ever? If you are an artist, take a look at the colors in the picture above. Navy, pine green, spring green, aqua, brown, black, white, probably a lot more. Mother Nature is sitting back and saying HA HA made you look!

In the Distance - What a View

2011-01-17T23:47:00.000-05:00

Can you imagine the view George Washington had as a child when he could look out his window at Popes Creek at Wakefield? I can't figure why the family ever left such a beautiful place. His playground must have been amazing. In the distance you can see the creek extending out to the river. The house faces the water and is surrounded by gardens, out houses, a kitchen, blacksmith's shop and more.

I will have more pictures over the next few post of Wakefield, the farm and of course the animals and scenery there.

Smells - One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pigs

2011-01-16T18:17:00.000-05:00

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS

Once upon a time there was a mother pig who had three little pigs.

The three little pigs grew so big that their mother said to them, "You are too big to live here any longer. You must go and build houses for yourselves. But take care that the wolf does not catch you."

***************************************

I always remember this rhyme. But it had nothing to do with the smell emanating from these three little cuties. I visited George Washington's Birthplace, a working farm, and ran into them and quite a few other friends you will see over the next few posts.

From the archives.......

2011-01-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

I haven't gotten to take pictures too much because of the weather and work in combination. I pulled this from the archives this past fall. Hopefully I can get out today.

Hello to All my New Friends from the Low Light and Night Photography Meetup in Stafford, VA

2011-01-15T19:06:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone, glad you stopped by. Be sure to view all my older posts from the last couple of years under the archive section.

Leave me a note and let me know that you stopped by and what you think.

Here is proof I can take low light shots and have a lot to learn. Pretty to look at less than 100% , too much noise, and grainy too at 3200 ISO, and way to slow to be clear. Oh well, practice practice practice.

Some of you asked about the Fine Art America website. Here is my own website: http://terri-creasy.artistwebsites.com/ there. You can check out the rest of the site too at: http://fineartamerica.com .

If you can please click the Follow Me on the right of my website.

Hope to see you all again soon.

Winter Sunset at the Garden

2011-01-13T00:23:00.000-05:00

Multiples, Macro, Multifaceted, Learning Experience

2011-01-11T13:57:00.001-05:00

I am at home today due to icy conditions, so I thought I would combine the theme and create a real "multiples" post. All of the post title elements will be included.

Here are images from my Nikon D80. I keep my settings on NEF and JPG which allows me to have both file types and gives me more control. The following is multiples of the same image, same size, same resolution.

This 1st image is the NEF/RAW file. It is as shot and has no adjustments and no assumed algorithms from the camera. I did save it from NEF to the JPG format which has little to no visible changes.

The 2nd image is the original JPG image straight out of the camera. To create the JPG algorithms used by NIKON to figure out by their previous experiences what colors, blacks, contrast, hues, saturation, and more will look good. Sometimes they do this well, other times, not so much. Actually sometimes I like the JPG better.

The 3rd image is the camera NEF/RAW file which I adjusted with my own personal choices through Elements, and can also be accomplished with Photoshop and other softwares. Features I changed are exposure, fill light, contrast, blacks, brightness, clarity, vibrance and saturation.

Its all up to you as to what you like, and the control you like to have over your photography. I learn all the time and don't claim to know it all. I hope this will help others and if you have any questions I will be glad to help or research what I do not know.

Finally, I like the 2nd one in its more natural state, although I like my edits and enhancements to the 3rd image. And just one more point, differences in monitors, printers, and cameras change the images even further.

Yes, sometimes is is like a vicious circle in trying to get the best color. Best of luck to you in your quest for images whether its basic or simple or advanced and way too complicated. Just enjoy it at whatever level you choose.

Group or Groupings - The Proof is in the Closeup

2011-01-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

Looking from a distance, this picture is pretty insignificant. Yea its a tree. But get up close and personal with my micro lens 105mm and see what I see.

Once you get at 100% look at the groups of holes in this tree. What are they from? Who or what did that? I believe it was a woodpecker. Though I never saw him, I have heard him before off in the distance. The sound echoes, like a sharp banging sort of sound but fast and repetitive.

When you look at the group of holes up close, you see some that look old-months or more, some that look a few days or weeks old, and some maybe even from today. They are white or lightly colored, fresh even. I have always heard that woodpeckers killed the trees. I don't know if that is true or not, I have also heard they are pecking to get the bugs from a tree.

My next expedition? Find that wascally wabbit, I mean woodpecker!

What do you know or think about the woodpecker?

Cat in the ....... Look at me, Look at me now!

2011-01-09T15:24:00.000-05:00

"Look at me!
Look at me!
Look at me NOW!
It is fun to have fun
But you have to know how."
— Dr. Seuss (The Cat in the Hat)

Hmmmm what's this?

It smells like......

Oh yea....that's what I thought!

This is Kohl, some of you have seen him before. He's getting a little older now and I can't quite decide is this is a symptom or a characteristic. I am leaning more towards characteristic since he did this about 4 different times. (note to self, reset camera settings after low light sessions, 1600+ ISO is not the best thing when you are trying to get unexpected pictures.)

This final shot is of the "old man" sitting in my lap with the 105mm lens on so it was pretty close up. I used some Ansel Adams settings on it to capture his personality.

Wandering Winter Water

2011-01-08T18:46:00.000-05:00

This is the stream next to the Tea House. I always like it due to its varied plantings, depending on the seasons of the year. And the water always reflects the colors of whatever is around it. Sometimes there is very little water flowing, other times its like this. Odd enough this was taken a couple days ago and the colors really look more like fall. Either way, I like it.

Unique Camera Angle - Sometimes Its Worth Just Taking a Turn

2011-01-07T19:43:00.000-05:00

The botannical garden provides so many unique opportunities for pictures. I have never been there that I didn't come back with something new and different. Its not just about things in bloom. I have found, turtles, ducks, snakes, frogs, spiders, fish, hawks, many other birds, people, cats, dogs, books, tree houses, the stream, the pond, the lake, the puddle, the food, the architecture, sculptures, glass, art, the rocks, fruits, berries, the occasional flower, ha ha and more. Ok off my pedastal, but please join and support your local botannical garden.

This picture is all about not just what you see but what you might not see, or what you thought you saw, the reflections, the picture within a picture. When you first look at this it looks cool, its the tree house where I took the window and sky picture from the last post. Look at the picture then scroll down and read the rest of the post.

Look closely at 100% if you can.

Its not what you think. It is the reflection not the actual tree house. The grass and bush at the top is actually at the bottom. Notice the sky then move down toward the struts holding the house up. See the ripples in the water, see the distortions there?

I took the picture and then turned it upside down. Thus the "sometimes its worth just taking a turn" and it is a Unique Camera Angle. Last year's bloggers may remember I did something similar. Its a great challenge, try it out and see what you can come up with. Reflections are everywhere.

Here is a link for a juried show I had another one of my reflections in. It was the sky scape in Central Park in the lake there. Here is the original and a picture of the framed imaged at the show. The framed image was sold in 2009.

New York City Reflections

Through a Window - View From the Treehouse

2011-01-06T21:10:00.000-05:00

This is a view through the window of the treehouse in the Children's Garden at the Botannical Gardens. The sun was going down and there were still plenty of clouds in the sky. You can even see a little left of the golden light of the sun in the lower right hand corner.

The clouds were not as as clear at 100% as I would have liked. When I was inside of the treehouse it was low light. There just wasn't enough time, with the sun going down to finalize the correct settings. A few more minutes, maybe next time.

Another Update: Fuzzy Wuzzy was a Flower at the Botannical Garden

2011-01-05T20:25:00.010-05:00

Another update: Thanks everyone for all the great comments, but just wanted to assure everyone this is a real living, blooming, growing, plant at the botannical gardens.

I often regret using a theme so very specific so early on, and I will likely find something else around August or later that fits, but anyway. This viney little red flower has to be one of my favorites. If you look up close you can see just how fuzzy it is. It seems to be covered in fuzzy hair. I don't know the name, let me know if you do.

Thanks so much to gerberbaby1......you were right, it does appear to be the Lipstick Plant. Very cool. Here is a random website that appears to confirm it. http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week081.shtml

Art - Photography is Art and Art is Photography

2011-01-05T00:21:00.048-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows I like to sketch or paint my pictures and pictures of others sometimes. Then take a picture of what I sketched or painted, hence the title. I am learning so I am not Leonardo Da Vinci just yet. I could have gone to the museum and have taken a picture of a famous piece of art or some sculpture in front of some office building, I have done it before. Actually, I do have a nice picture of Mona Lisa I took at the Louvre. I find that photography has helped me to notice and see things I never saw before. On the other side when I sketch and draw I see details in the photographs I never saw before.

Here are a couple quick sketches, the violinist from when I went to Paris, and then the candy was on my desk. The last one is a more detailed drawing of one of my photographs, I posted as my favorite on my Year in Review. Next time you take a picture, sketch it too before you walk away. Then go home and sketch it from the photograph. Then post the results here. You can even make separate pages for your other artwork. Take a look when you can at some of mine. Sketches, Paintings and More

Pleasure - Size Does Matter.....for Camera Lenses Silly

2011-01-03T21:27:00.021-05:00

My greatest pleasure is my 105mm Nikkor lens for my Nikon D80. I know I have said it before, but it rarely comes off of the camera. The colors, the macro shots, even though its called a micro lens by Nikon, are the light of my life. Love it! Nothing I have used so far can even compare to it. I very highly recommend this lens. Its an extension of my arm now. Oh yea did I say it brings me great pleasure, LOL.

Door - 528 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, VA - Caroline House

2011-01-02T17:49:00.000-05:00

Took a walk down Caroline Street and saw this cool B&B. They had not taken down the decorations yet. It sure made the place seem welcoming and a nice place to stay. I can only imagine what it may have looked like in 1890.

Caroline House/Richard Johnston Inn
THE 1890 CAROLINE HOUSE – located 1 block from the train station on the main street of Historic Fredericksburg. Built in 1890 and purchased at auction by Jackie and Chuck Leopold March 17th, 2006. The Caroline House has been refurbished to its original grandeur with all of the modern conveniences to make your visit memorable.

Circular - Train Bridge, Fredericksburg, VA over the Rappahannock River

2011-01-02T17:14:00.000-05:00

I was in Fredericksburg for the evening and caught the bridge just before the sun went down. The CSX and Amtrak trains go over this bridge all day long.

The reflections, when the river is calm are always amazing and evening colors during the "golden hour" light up the skyline.

Settings are as follow: Exp 1/160, F4.5, ISO 640(a little high I think), 105mm

Let's Start by Handling "the Letter V"

2011-01-01T09:32:00.000-05:00

When I was walking I heard them coming but couldn't tell which way then suddenly there they were. Their organizational abilities amaze me. I have watched the geese in various places when they are on the ground, and they signal each other and go into flight. Life should be so simple. My office could take their clues from the geese.....just talk to each other once in a while.

Year in Review - Links for Walk a Mile in My Shoes

2010-12-31T10:18:00.002-05:00

I didn't accomplish the goal of finishing the challenge again, but I have kept up the blog as time has allowed. I plan on continuing again this year. I have a lot to learn and hopefully can help others learn too with my experiences.

Miss Snowy Nose and A Few Snowflakes

2010-12-27T15:53:00.001-05:00

Harley loves the snows and she is always trying to see what is under it; look at her nose!

And I went out a little too late as the sun seemed to be melting the flakes and I ended up with crystals instead.

Chickadees

2010-12-27T15:29:00.001-05:00

Not great pictures, but I was attempting to catch the Chickadees. I used the 105mm but couldn't get any closer to these guys without them flying off. I love the way they brighten up the view.

Christmas Candlelight

2010-12-26T17:16:00.001-05:00

Too much snow and cold to go out today, will make the attempt tomorrow. Candles for dinner are always nice.

Happy Holidays Family and Friends

2010-12-24T10:16:00.001-05:00

Check Out New Greeting Cards

2010-12-16T19:50:00.002-05:00

New Greeting Card #1

New Greeting Card #2

Greeting Card Design

2010-12-14T23:13:00.001-05:00

Lewis Ginter Botannical

2010-12-05T20:23:00.001-05:00

It was cold and breezy but still a nice day.

Lovely Linear Lines - ABC Shoot - L

2010-11-30T21:02:00.000-05:00

DPS Entry Pattern and Repetition

2010-11-30T19:58:00.001-05:00

End of a great Turkey Day!

2010-11-25T22:20:00.000-05:00

Bird, Bird, Bird, Bird is the Word

2010-11-21T16:32:00.000-05:00

Rappahannock River Tappahannock, VA

Lewis Ginter Botannical Gardens, Richmond, VA

2010-11-14T23:13:00.000-05:00

J is for Japanese Garden at the Botannical Garden

2010-11-13T15:14:00.000-05:00

I is for Ice Cream - Alphabet Shoot

2010-11-07T20:22:00.000-05:00

I is for Iris - Alphabet Shoot

2010-11-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

White Rose

2010-11-06T22:45:00.000-04:00

G is for Grizzly......Alphabet Shoot

2010-10-28T23:00:00.000-04:00

Carousel

2010-10-28T22:41:00.000-04:00

Although they have always made me dizzy I really love the characters on the carousel. Here is a horse and gasp........ a Red Rooster!

Butterfly

2010-10-27T23:35:00.000-04:00

I chased this little butterfly all over, he just wouldn't hold still.

The Color of Trees and Flowers

2010-10-26T07:27:00.001-04:00

F is for Frivolous - Alphabet Shoot

2010-10-19T23:42:00.000-04:00

Some houses in Charleston, SC seem a bit "frivolous" but I guess that is what makes the town charming. And then they paint it pink.......

F is for Furry - Alphabet Shoot

2010-10-10T22:15:00.002-04:00

Translucent - Grasses

2010-10-10T21:56:00.000-04:00

Orange - Monarch

2010-10-10T21:22:00.000-04:00

Tranquilty - A single leaf

2010-10-10T20:59:00.000-04:00

There is something about a single leaf in the water, it is just tranquil. Although the leaf is the focus, the texture and consistency of the water is pretty cool. If you look in the upper left corner you can see a couple of minnows.

Damsel in Red - Seasonal

2010-10-06T22:56:00.000-04:00

This damsel fly landed right in front of me. The red coloring in the pond seems to be a seasonal plant which grows in the water. It looks like something slimy at a distance but if you look up close you can see the millions of tiny little plants.

Still Sketching

2010-10-02T19:14:00.001-04:00

D is for Dragon Fly

2010-10-02T15:40:00.000-04:00

Latest SKetches

2010-10-02T10:22:00.000-04:00

Sweetgrass Baskets - Charleston, SC

2010-10-01T23:38:00.000-04:00

While visiting Charleston, I met a lady who created these beautiful baskets. They are just amazing and so strong and sturdy. They are called Sweetgrass baskets. Read all about them and the lady who created them. She said her daughter, sister and grandmother also made them and it was passed along from one generation to another.

Charleston Fountain - Stop the Action

2010-10-01T23:07:00.000-04:00

Bubba Slye's Subs- Charleston

2010-09-30T13:15:00.001-04:00

Bad picture of some good food. Ate at Bubba Slye's Subs very good in Charleston. I had the Hambone and sweet potato fries. YUM! Ham swiss, LTM Grilled Onions and banana peppers.

Charleston Sights and Idntify the Round Object......

2010-09-30T13:05:00.000-04:00

Here a few sights from Charleston, the Holy City, city of SNOB and SOB. More on that later, LOL.

Can you identify what the round object in the 2nd photo is? It has a very specific use in Charleston.

Background Shapes Blur/Distortio

2010-09-30T12:06:00.000-04:00

This is just a simple rose, but sometimes the background shapes create as much interest as the focal point itself.

I like my photographs that are somewhat artsy as well as in focus and interesting.

Orange Blossum

2010-09-30T11:56:00.000-04:00

Sorry friends, my work is consuming all of my time. Haven't been in the office for nearly a month and little time to blog or FB. Here is a flower I took a couple weeks ago, I am sure it fits into some theme.

I just like looking at its size and petals.

Street Painting Festival - Via Colori Fredericksburg, VA - PSA

2010-09-19T08:50:00.000-04:00

Please listen to the radio PSA about the Via Colori Festival. Julie (my sister) and I will be participating next weekned painting the street in Fredericksburg, VA

http://viacolorifredericksburg.blogspot.com/2010/09/fls-via-colori.html

They are on Facebook as well. http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#!/pages/Via-Colori-Fredericksburg/130816163616932

Looking forward to a fun weekend on September 24-26.

And there will be plenty of pictures to keep you updated.

C is for Caterpillar - and a Hungry one Too!

2010-09-17T23:25:00.002-04:00

Someone sure is hungry here. This was taken in Shenadoah National Forest. These creepy crawlers were eating up everything in site.

Just when I had some nice foilage in my sights.....

2010-09-17T23:22:00.001-04:00

Just when I had some nice foilage in my sights.....the wildlife tries to hog the spotlight.

For the Clustered theme I went back to Luray Caverns

2010-09-16T22:07:00.001-04:00

For some reason I just couldn't get my camera skills in order. Guess I can blame it on lots of things, too much of hurry, tour guide rushing us through, I am tired, guess that is no excuse. I took a pile of shots most of them awful. Here is one of the better ones. These are clustered, stalactites or stalagmites.

SOOC Sunday and "Structure"

2010-09-12T10:17:00.002-04:00

An entry for Straight Out of the Camera Sunday. Loved this olde barn and there weren't really to many adjustments that needed to be made. But here it is straight out of the camera in RAW.

Here is the link for others in the SOOC Sunday Challenge .

A is for Amphibian

2010-09-05T22:35:00.001-04:00

Check out Barb's Alphabet Shoot Sunday Photo Challenge.

Open - Wings Over the Flower Garden

2010-09-05T21:53:00.000-04:00

These butterflies keep their wings closed much of the time, but I caught them open and it even looks like they have eyes on their wings that are open as well.

Williamsburg Colonial Band

2010-09-04T19:17:00.000-04:00

Meant to post this back in June when I first took it. In Colonial Williamsburg bands were quite different than those of today.

New Sketches

2010-09-04T18:25:00.000-04:00

Debris - Tearing it Down

2010-09-03T18:57:00.002-04:00

Recently when I was in downtown Richmond, I saw this building being torn down. It just seemed interesting to be tearing it down right in the middle of the city. The spray is moisture to keep down the dust. Again this was from a cell phone, I wish I had the d80 to get some better detail. There were two backhoes loading the debris into dumpsters to be taken away. I should also mention that the brick building still standing is where my daughter was born in 1978. Its the Medical College of Virginia Hospital.

Here is the same building with a little aging added to it, with the noise and dust,etc, filter.

Religious - Preying Mantis - or how once again to stretch a theme

2010-09-03T18:45:00.000-04:00

Another one from the cell phone.

Vintage - Name this Car? (Ron)

2010-09-03T09:36:00.000-04:00

Not sure if we have had a "Vintage" theme before, but I am filling it now, LOL

Do you know what car this is? Its been around awhile and is "well traveled" in the present and the past.

Quality is not too great, used my cell phone to get this one.

Hummingbird Bug? or Moth?

2010-08-30T23:40:00.000-04:00

Hummingbird Bug Its a little creepy looking but pretty interesting over all and a real, um pain to catch. It moves really fast and flitting all around the butterfly bush.

Not sure this is exactly the right species but I think its similar. If you know differently just let me know I will correct.

A Specialty by Our Creator

2010-08-30T23:38:00.000-04:00

I am not terribly religious but you have to be amazed at the detail our Creator used with this one.

Meet Jack (Black) not the comedian

2010-08-30T23:36:00.000-04:00

This is Jack, my daughter's cat, the mighty hunter. He has hunted nearly everything except a deer and that wouldn't surprise me. He has brought most of his hunted toys back home to play with, rabbits, snakes, squirrels, skunks, birds and more. Yes, the mighty hunter.

Sketchitis - Sketching too much or not enough

2010-08-29T20:54:00.001-04:00

I know I have a ways to go with these but its fun to try. Some of these are from WingFest, others from my lunch excursions and others just from a magazine(things don't move when I sketch them).