A Virtual Photography Exhibition of Amazing Rock Formations

Earlier this week, an exhibition of my black and white photography project titled “Standing With the Ancient Ones” ended its first show at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff, Arizona. The journey to photography those images required over 4-years, thousands of digital and film images, and 6,000 miles of travels through remote regions of America’s Colorado Plateau and Great Plains. My purpose in this project was to locate and document ancient animal- and human-shaped rock formations like the one below which were ever present and significant to Native Americans who once lived upon these lands.

Spirit Warrior
Photographed at Bisti Wilderness Area, New Mexico

     The amazing and often breathtaking formations documented in this project sit on land that was once the home to various Native American tribes. They were also important in their culture and frequently became the main subject in storytelling and lessons on life, spirituality and living properly that were handed down for generations like this famous story of Naapi.

Naapi, the Old Man, came down from his home in the Sun to help his people,
the Blackfoot. When his work was done he said to himself, “I will go up
onto the highest mountain and change myself into stone. He then hiked to
a crevice in the mountain, laid down with only his face peeking out, and
turned himself into a rock. He is still there, watching for people to
come looking for him. ~ Blackfoot Legend of Naapi

     Today, most of these formations are lost in unpopulated, remote and rarely visited regions of America. More importantly, because the few visitors who do make the journey usually arrive without a cultural understanding of those ancient people who honored the spirit in all Earthly things including the rocks, many often leave having seen only piles of rocks

     To help introduce you to this project and the newly published fine art book Standing With the Ancient Ones (click here to learn more) I’ve created a virtual photography exhibition from several framed photographs in the show. Simply click on the image below to begin viewing the exhibition. You can then move from one image to the next or click on a specific image to see it in a larger size.

Click on the Image Below to Tour This
Virtual Photography Exhibition

Arctic Sanctuary – Stunning Images of a Protected Land [ Review ]

Do you enjoy breathtaking scenes of Nature, reading about pristine remote wilderness areas and/or care about environmental issues? If so, the book Arctic Sanctuary – Images of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge by photographer Jeff Jones and writer Laurie Hoyle is for you. And as a bonus, if you enjoy photographing the land, an outstanding and high-quality book like this with well executed images is a great way to help you see things in new ways and encourage your development.

     This 173 page fine art photography book published by the University of Alaska Press contains over 150 stunning images that reveal the land, light and colors of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. That refuge, a federally protected area spanning nearly 20 million acres sits along the northern most boundary of the United States. For years it is an area that’s also been threatened by those seeking new sites for gas and oil development and this book is a testament to those who have worked hard to keep it permanently protected.

     Jeff Jones has an exceptional talent for capturing “big sky” landscapes. That talent along with his commitment to produce each large format and highly detailed photograph from many smaller images (using a time-consuming technique called stitching) help bring each of these subjects and scenes even more vividly to life. In addition, a great many of the images are panoramas that fill the width of these beautifully printed pages showing us a view similar to what our eyes would see and adding greatly to the feeling of being there.

     This photographer also has a strong talent for using color, details, patterns and contrasts to visually convey the character or personality of this place–a place that many would otherwise consider a cold and barren landscape. And, he’s used those skills to create each image that simultaneously captures the visual beauty and grandeur of a timeless moment. As a landscape photographer for 25-years I know the amount of patience, perseverance and physical/weather/insect challenges it takes to capture a large body of photographic images like these. And to Jeff Jones I offer my most sincere praise and a heartfelt “Job well done!”

     Accompanied by informative and easy-to-read text that describes the images and the region written by Laurie Hoyle, this is a book you can read, savor and enjoy again and again. Arctic Sanctuary – Images of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge published by the University of Alaska Press is a visual delight and a book I can highly recommend to nature lovers, landscape photographers and those who care about the environment.

Links: Click here to visit wilderness photographer Jeff Jones’ website. Click here to read more about this book or order it on Amazon. Click here to visit the University of Alaska Press website.

Arctic Sanctuary: Images of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
Rating: Highly Recommended  

Cotton Carrier — A Great Way to Carry Your Camera [ Review]

Over the past ten years, two products dramatically changed my life as a landscape photographer. The first was high-resolution digital cameras that made it possible to review your photos instantly in the field. The second product was the carbon fiber tripod whose weight was measured in ounces instead of pounds—a huge difference when carrying 20-30 pounds of camera gear 8-10 hours a day.

     Now, thanks to the innovation of photographer Andy Cotton and also my friend and fellow photographer Mike Eckstein who first introduced it to me, I’ve found a third product that’s greatly transformed my landscape photography work and that also has resulted in many more ‘keeper shots.” It’s a unique camera carrying system called the Cotton Carrier Camera System. Over the past six months I’ve used this system extensively to carry my cameras on 15-20 mile backcountry hikes, 9,500 foot mountain climbs, long ocean kayak trips and for aerial photography done inside an open cockpit plane traveling at 150 mph. In each case the camera gear was easier to carry and more accessible than ever and, it remained securely in place even during moments of high strenuous activity.

     And for photographers like myself who carry multiple cameras, the Cotton Carrier makes it a breeze to switch quickly from one camera to another. For example, previously on backcountry photo shoots I use to hand carry one camera fitted with a wide angle lens and wore a backpack containing a second camera fitted with a telephoto lens. The problem in nature and landscape photography of course is that you can’t predict what subject will present itself in the next moment. In the past, for example while carrying the wide angle lens, I might spot an animal that was best photographed with the telephoto lens. But, by the time I took off the backpack and removed the camera with the telephoto lens I missed the shot. Now, with the Cotton Carrier I can easily and effortlessly carry two cameras, all within arms reach, and easily switch from one to the other in just seconds.

     The Cotton Carrier Camera Camera System is a collection of small, light weight belts, harnesses and holsters that make it possible to easily carry one or two cameras of just about any size or weight. These carriers eliminate the neck pain that can happen when carrying a camera for hours on a neck strap. And, because of a unique locking system, the cameras stay firmly and safely attached to the harness until you need them.

     The harness I use is their Camera Vest System that allows for carrying one or two cameras. It consists of a lightweight vest made of sturdy Denier fabric with an attached belt that wraps around the body just above waist level and two over-the-shoulder straps that help distribute the weight evenly. A camera attaches to the harness at chest-level making it easy to carry and to access.

A METAL LOCKING “HUB” SCREWS INTO THE CAMERA MAKING IT
EASY TO ATTACH/REMOVE THE CAMERA FROM THE HARNESS

     I carry a second camera in a similar way using an optional side holster that attaches via a velcro strap to the belt. Both the harness and holster are fitted with a special metal receptacal and the system comes with special metal hubs (round attachments) which screw into the camera’s tripod hole. To attach a camera you simply slide a hub into the receptacal , give it a slight twist and the camera stays locked firmly and securely in place. (Note: If you use a quick release plate to attach your camera to a tripod, such as Kirk, Monfratto, RSS plates, they offer special hubs that work with those systems as well).

     The Cotton Carrier is a camera carrying system that’s greatly changed the way I do landscape photography and in some instances made it possible to capture images that might have been missed. Whether you work with one or two cameras, their harnesses and belts can make it easier to carry your equipment, especially for long periods of time and they keep your cameras secure and easily accessible. To everyone at Cotton Carrier, my sincere thanks for this revolutionary product!

LINKS: Click here to read more about, or to order the harness and detachable holster system described above for carrying one or two cameras. Or click here to check out all of the Cotton Carrier products on their website.

Cotton Carrier Camera System
Rating: Highly Recommended  

Acadia National Park: Farewe l l

During the last week of my time serving as artist-in-residence at Acadia National Park, I became aware that Nature was gently preparing me to leave. It began with three days of constant drizzle and chilling temperatures. Then the shorebirds, peregrines and eagles that I’d watch and photograph each morning began to disappear. Their disappearance, I discovered later, was the warning signal for an impending blizzard that brought 50 mph winds and 4-inches of snow. Finally, two days later I boarded a flight back home and as the wheels lifted off I realized it was with some sadness that I end my time spent in this amazing park and the warm and welcoming people of the neighboring communities that love and support it.

     In the presentations I give in our national parks I’m often asked for details about what a typical residency involves, especially how many photographs I make, hours I work, etc. So, for those interested in such things I kept detailed records on this trip and here are the results. During my month at Acadia, I photographed slightly more than 300 hours and drove over 780 miles throughout both sections of the park (Mt. Desert and Schoodic Peninsula). In that time, I captured 1,326 digital images, 56 black and white photographs and 14 short videos. I also took another 2,870 digital photographs that were used to produce 9 time-lapse movies.

     Another significant part of my work during this residency involved updating this blog. While I was at Acadia I posted a total of 19 new entries (over 11,200 words), 62 photographs and 5 slideshows as well as 6 videos and time-lapse movies. It is also my hope during the next few months to use the photographs and time-lapse movies to create a 3-4 minute music video about the park which I will also post on the blog.

     Acadia National Park is a national treasure with breathtaking views, sights and sounds that everyone should experience. Unlike some parks that are isolated from metropolitan areas, Acadia is easy to reach by plane and/or car and the nearby towns of Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor and Winter Harbor make it easy to find camping or lodging, food and other recreational activities. For more information on the park, visit Acadia’s official website (click here) and if you go, please send an email and photo and tell me about your experience.

Acadia National Park – Great Photo & Travel Books

Over the past few months I’ve replied to many emails from readers asking for a recommended list of travel guide and/or photography-related books about Acadia National Park and in this blog I wanted to summarize my replies for all readers. Of the 54 books, maps and newsletters used to help prepare for this assignment, the following are those which I eventually found to be most helpful both as a photographer and as a traveler.

BOOKS & MAPS

Moon Acadia National Park by Hilary Nangle
Published by Avalon Travel Publishing
     A well-written, up-to-date and highly useful 312-page guide book filled with detailed information on the park and nearby communities as well as advice and recommendations on lodging, dining and recreation. Like other Moon Handbooks, this one, written by the editor of Maine’s tourism magazine was of great help many times over during my stay. Click here for details.

Acadia, The Complete Guide… by James Kaiser
Published by Destination Press
     A great 288-page guide book filled with beautiful photos that helped in planning my trip and served as an excellent reference book while I was there. The book has sections on history and geology, recreation tips (hiking, biking, sailing, etc.), detailed information on the park (over 100 pages), and information on nearby towns and islands. Click here for details.

The Park Loop Road by Robert Thayer
Published by Down East Books
     Robert Thayer is a naturalist and seasonal park ranger. His knowledge of the park and skill as a photographer makes this 48-page book one I highly recommend to anyone planning a visit to Acadia. I especially found the photographs and short descriptions of must-see locations helpful in considering places to photograph. Click here for details.

Hiking Acadia National Park by Dolores Kong
Published by Falcon Press
     If you’re interested in hiking and/or leaving the beaten path to see sights not visible from a car, this 250-page book is a great resource. Hiking Acadia National Park carefully explains the degree of difficulty, distance, grade and sights seen along the way for over 90 different hikes. It fits nicely in a backpack and I found it extremely valuable and accurate in keeping me on track, although I’d suggest carrying a good trail map as well. Click here for details.

The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer by Delorme
Published by Delorme
     If you’ll be sightseeing, hiking or exploring outside Acadia, or elsewhere in Maine, this, like all DeLorme Gazetteers is “THE’ resource to have. This atlas with highly detailed maps of the state spread across 78-pages makes this an excellent resource for trip planning or for spur of the moment exploration. These detailed maps identify highways, roadways, rivers and streams as well as a general idea as to the terrain of the area. Click here for more details.

Other Suggested Reading
Photograph America Newsletter is the best photo-location resource guide around. Bob Hitchman has written this 12-page newsletter four times a year since 1989. Each issue includes great suggestions on photo locations, driving/hiking tips and beautiful photographs of the area. I’ve relied on Bob’s newsletters for years to help plan a trip before I arrive and highly recommend it to photographers and tourists alike. Here are three newsletters you might find helpful: #13 (Acadia and the Coast of Maine), #96 (Islands Off the Coast of Maine), and #116 (Lighthouses on the Coast of Maine). Click here to visit the Photograph America website.

Acadia National Park – Conveying an Experience: Video Storytelling Part 2

The Challenge: Involving Viewers Through Panoramas, Time-Lapse and Video

In the last few blogs I discussed how I use traditional photography, panoramas and time-lapse movies to share the beauty of a place and/or experience. Video is the final technique we’ll discuss that’s a valuable addition to the visual storytellers toolbox for helping to share beauty and also a great way to involving viewers in an experience. Also, while photographs produced with digital and film cameras produce images of a moment in time and time-lapse movies show an event in compressed time, video shows viewers a complete event moment-by-moment as it actually happened.

I’m primarily a landscape photographer and don’t pretend to be a videographer–one who creates full length movies. Instead, on photo assignments like the one here at Acadia National Park, I use video to share and involve viewers in the beauty of a brief experience (usually 10-30 second). I find that short videos like this can quickly accomplish what’s often impossible with a photograph or time-lapse movie. As an added bonus, videos can also help involve viewers experience some of what they might have felt if they’d witnessed that event in person. As an example, water is perhaps the most visible and dramatic features at Acadia. Here, waves and tides can have a soothing and hypnotizing effect that can captivate the viewer, but they can also change surprisingly quick. Here is a video clip made along Acadia’s shoreline.

Rising Tide at Arey Cove
Click The Image to Watch This Video

     Here’s another video example. Of the 2.5 million people who visit Acadia annually, most see the park from their car, a bus and/or during a walk along the park’s carriage trails. For a completely unique experience, you can also view the park from the air in a small plane or glider, or from the water on a ferry or water taxi service. Taking a plane ride over the park or a boat ride on any of the waters can be an exhilarating experience and provide a perspective that’s impossible to see from land. Click on the image below for video clip made during one of many sightseeing tours around the park offered by Winter Harbor Water Taxi and Tour Service.

Experience Acadia in a New Way
Click The Image to Watch This Video

Creating a video is easier than its ever been in the past. And, while years ago, camcorders were the only way to capture video, today there are many other devices for doing so including newer digital SLR and point-and-shoot cameras as well as cell phones, notebook computers and netbook computers. On prior assignments, for example, I’ve recorded video using a Canon 7D camera, Canon Powershot point-and-shoot camera and also an iPhone. While varying widely in price and features, all have produced high quality results capable of holding the viewers attention.

A GREAT NEW CAMERA: During the past few months I’ve been working with an amazing and inexpensive camera that can record video (including HD quality), still images and time-lapse movies. I’ll be posting a detailed review of it later this month.

Acadia National Park – Conveying an Experience: Video Storytelling Part 1

The Challenge: Involving Viewers Through Panoramas, Time-Lapse and Video

As a landscape photographer I am a visual storyteller, a person who tells stories about the Earth and its creatures through images. Most often, I use digital and vintage film cameras to capture those images and share with others in the form of traditional photographs. As I wrote about in the last blog entry, I also use digital cameras to produce time-lapse movies–movies made from hundreds of individual photographs of the same subject recorded over time and rapidly displaying them all to viewers as a movie.

     Occasionally, in certain situations, visually sharing the story about a place or a subject requires more than showing viewers a few photographs or time-lapse movies. While the photograph of a mountain or of a horse, for example, is often the best way to visually share its beauty, and a time-lapse movie is a great way to quickly convey a changing scene like clouds moving rapidly through the sky, there are times when neither photographs or time-lapse tell viewers the entire story. Instead, telling the entire story is best done through video made either entirely from photographs or made using video cameras.

VIDEOS MADE FROM PHOTOGRAPHS & TIME-LAPSE
On a prior assignment for the National Park Service at Badlands National Park in South Dakota, I spent 6-weeks photographing throughout the park. My subjects included panoramic and ever-changing multi-colored landscapes, incredible rock formations, dramatic weather conditions and extraordinary wildlife. At the conclusion of the project however, I felt that neither the photographs nor the time-lapse movies alone adequately told the story of this immense 240,000 acre park. Instead, I combined over 4,000 images along with the music from a friend and award winning flutist, Ronald Roybal, to produced a 5-minute music video titled Under a Dakota Sky. As I think you’ll see when you watch the video, it quickly conveys a rich story about the land, animals, weather, animals and the park’s ties to Native Americans. It’s also my hope at the conclusion of my work at Acadia National Park to create a similar video. If you haven’t seen Under a Dakota Sky before, please click on the image and enjoy the experience.

UNDER A DAKOTA SKY (Music Video)
Rick Braveheart ~ Ronald Roybal
Click Below to Watch This Video
Made From Over 4,000 Images

TIPS ON CREATING VIDEOS FROM PHOTOGRAPHS
Creating a video from thousands of digital images requires time, planning, patience and most especially a good video editing software program. There are several excellent high-end video editing programs such as Apple’s Final Cut Pro, Sony’s Vegas Pro and Adobe’s Premiere Pro which sell for $300-900 and offer extensive features. There are also many good video editing programs which are FREE that offer a great way to put together fairly complex videos or test the water at no cost. Some of these free programs and links to where you can read more include: Microsoft Movie Maker, Avid FreeDV (both Windows and Mac) and Wax Apple’s iMovie included free with new Mac computers.

Coming Up Next: Using Video Segments to Convey an Experience.