Fine Art Landscape Photography Prints by Alan Crowe, Health Care, Hospitality, Office, Corporate, Residential. Distinctive landscape and nature photography. Giclee, Canvas Wraps, Metal Prints.
In this post I’d like to illustrate the benefits of fine art imagery for interiors. Many studies have shown that landscape and nature images bring warmth, and beauty into many interiors. In addition to these qualities they can also add a sense of calm and healing in healthcare facilities. These are some of the reasons why many hospitals and clinics choose artworks of the natural world for their facilities.
Recently I had the opportunity to provide fine art display prints for a clinic in Bellingham, Washington. The Mount Baker Vision Clinicwas in the process of a major renovation. As part of their remodel they needed to update the artwork on their walls. The owners wanted to keep a Northwest theme, and therefore selected images mostly from nearby locations.
After a series of consultations they selected eleven images for their lobby and exam room corridors. All of the images were finished in a classic fine art print manner. Framed* in black brushed aluminum, archival mounting, with double mats using 4ply archival museum board, and non-reflective glass. Looking at the photos in this post, you can see how this traditional style of presentation has maintained the tone in the clinic, as well as adding a degree of elegance.
*Professional framing provided by Bellingham Frameworks.
Similarly, my images can enhance your interior spaces, whether it is a private residence, business office, healthcare facility, or lodging facility. In addition to traditional Paper Prints, I also offer Gallery Canvas Wraps, Metal Prints, and Lumachrome Acrylic Prints. Please check out the prints page for pricing and more information on the benefits of each style.
All interiors provided courtesy of the Mount Baker Vision Clinic.
Once again it’s that time of year to look back on the accomplishments of the past twelve months. Like every year, 2019 had its share of highlights and disappointments. In terms of new images and trips 2019 was one of the best years in recent memory. Firstly, the new year began by breaking in a much needed new camera and lens system. Secondly I was able to finally make a long planned and awaited tripto the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho and Wind River Range of Wyoming. This year was so successful I had a tough job to whittle the selection down to just eleven images. I hope you enjoy them all!
Kalaloch Beach #4 Olympic National Park #65138 Purchase
1. Kalaloch Beach #4 Olympic National Park. Made in May during an annual pilgrimage to the Washington Coast with my wife, Coleen. Photographers usually bypass Kalaloch Beach for the classic compositions of sea stacks at nearby Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park. While not as dramatic as Ruby, Kalaloch has long stretches of beautiful sandy beach and some wonderful tidepools to explore.
Squaretop Mountain Wind River Range Wyoming #67138 Purchase
2. Squaretop Mountain Wind River Range Wyoming. My last destination in the Wind River Range was along the Green River near Squaretop Mountain. This is probably one of the most recognizable views in the Winds. This view is just a few yards from my tent. Getting an early start on Labor Day weekend gave me first pick on campsites, certainly one of the best sites along the river.
Little Redfish Lake, Sawtooth Mountains Idaho #66227 Purchase
3. Little Redfish Lake, Sawtooth Mountains Idaho. After nearly two weeks of backpacking into the Sawtooths I was treated to one more morning of great light. Right alongside a road and a major campground, Little Redfish Lake is one of the easier spots in the Sawtooths to get to for dramatic views. It’s also a lucky spot for me, on my last visit to this viewpoint I also had some spectacular light.
4. Sawtooth Lake, Sawtooth Mountains Idaho. This was my first stop on a six week photo tour of the Northern Rockies. Sawtooth Lake is one of the more popular backcountry destinations in the area, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a relatively short and easy hike to a classic view of Mount Regan. This one was made from the south side of the lake just after sunrise with an ultra wide angle lens.
5. Clearing Storm over Grand Teton. This one was made during a two week stay in Grand Teton National Park back in September. As part of my Rocky Mountains photo tour I originally planned to stay only 3-4 days in Grand Teton. However a series of interesting weather patterns convinced me to extend my stay. This one was made at sunrise, after a storm dusted the higher peaks with fresh snow.
Oxbow Bend Sunset, Grand Teton National Park #67566 Purchase
6. Oxbow Bend Sunrise, Grand Teton National Park. This is probably the most popular scene for photographers in the park. Because of the crowds of photographers, unless you arrive a few hours before sunset or sunrise you may not be able to set up in a choice spot. After spending nearly two weeks in the park I finally got the light I was after. This evening was one of those rare times when the light just kept getting better and better. Even nearly an hour after sunset there was still a nice glow in the sky.
MilkyWay over Titcomb Basin Wind River Range Wyoming #66743 Purchase
7. MilkyWay over Titcomb Basin Wind River Range Wyoming. The main destination for me in the Winds, Titcomb Basin and Island Lake are a magnet for backpackers and climbers. There is so much to see and photograph in this area that I allotted nine days to take it all in. One of my first attempts at night photography, I set this one up next to my tent while camping in upper Titcomb Basin. A few wispy clouds were also present to accentuate the scene.
Mammoth Hot Springs Yellowstone National Park #68021 Purchase
8. Mammoth Hot Springs Yellowstone National Park. In the northwestern corner of the park, Mammoth Hot Springs can be a rather frustrating feature to photograph. Springs can be dry one year and resurface in another place the next year. On a previous visit this spring on the upper terrace was bone dry and gray. On this visit not only was it was flowing, but I had a few mornings and evenings of nice light to photograph them in.
Mammoth Hot Springs Yellowstone National Park #68060 Purchase
9. Mammoth Hot Springs Yellowstone National Park. One of the things that makes Yellowstone’s geothermal features so interesting is the variety of colorful thermophilic bacteria that lives in them. Here, in the lower terrace of Mammoth Hot Springs, a tree has been encased in travertine created by the bacteria and minerals brought up with the hot water.
Great Fountain Geyser Yellowstone National Park #67744 Purchase
10. Great Fountain Geyser Yellowstone National Park. As part of my Rockies photo tour Yellowstone, like Grand Teton, was originally planned as a brief stop on the way to Beartooth Pass. However, since I was already on the road for many weeks and the weather was taking an ominous turn my plans shifted. Therefore the Yellowstone segment lasted over a week. This image was made while waiting for the geyser to erupt, which it didn’t do until well after sunset.
Firehole River Yellowstone National Park #67865 Purchase
11. Firehole River Yellowstone National Park. I came across this scene just as a thick layer of morning fog was burning off. One of the keys to an enjoyable visit to Yellowstone is checking out its geothermal features very early in the morning or late in the day. On this instance there were only three or four cars in the parking lot. A few hours later even the overflow parking was full.
I hope you enjoyed viewing Photo Highlights 2019, please feel free to vote or comment on your favorite photos in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you. Please check out my New Additions gallery to see more images made in 2019.
Also, if you enjoyed these images please share this post with friends family and coworkers. Finally, all of the photos are available as fine art prints, just click on any to see purchasing options. I hope all of you have a new year filled with peace, prosperity, and joy!
Great Fountain Geyser Yellowstone National Park #67744 Purchase
The final group of new images is now online and ready to view. Click this link to check them out. This group represents close the second half of my Rocky Mountains photo tour, and includes three national parks.
After a full month of backpacking in the Sawtooths and Winds I was originally planning only a brief stop in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The next major destinations were to be the Beartooth Highway and eastern Montana. However, weather forecasts and other circumstances presented opportunities in these parks that I could not pass up.
John Moulton Barn Grand Teton National Park Wyoming #67229 Purchase
Therefore, in the end I spent nearly two weeks in Grand Teton, and about a week in Yellowstone. After leaving Yellowstone it became apparent that deteriorating weather patterns would bing the trip to an early close. Consequently there was only enough time to make a quick drive to Glacier National Park before storms set in. Although during my short stay in Glacier I was presented with several more great photo opportunities.
Oxbow Bend Grand Teton National Park #67564 Purchase
As mentioned in previous posts, I’ll soon be writing more detailed posts on all aspects of the trip.
Locations Added:
Grand Teton National Park: Mormon Row Barns, Schwabacher Landing, Oxbow Bend Yellowstone National Park:Geothermal features of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone Falls and Canyon, Mammoth Hot Springs Montana: Rocky Mountain Front Range near Augusta and Choteau, Sun River Canyon Glacier National Park:Saint Mary Lake, Saint Mary and Virgina Falls
The second group of new images from my Rocky Mountains photo tour is now online and ready to view. Click this link to view them. This group represents close to three weeks of backpacking photography in the Wind River Range of Wyoming.
If you have been following my blog over the past several years you’ll know that the Winds have been on my “must return to list” for quite some time. They are an extensive high elevation mountain range encompassing three wilderness areas. There are enough peaks lakes and glaciers in the Winds to keep a photographer busy for an entire lifetime.
Green River and Squaretop Mountain #67170 Purchase
This was my fourth trip to the Winds, and by far my most successful. The past trips were plagued by poor light and or smoke from wildfires. However, this time there were plenty of opportunities to photograph in exceptional light.
Here is a list of the locations from this trip. After I finish the next edits of Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks I’ll be following up with more posts detailing each of the trips from this tour.
Bonneville Lakes Basin
Island Lake/Titcomb Basin/Indian Basin
Green River Lakes/Green River/Squaretop Mountain
And of course, all images are ready and available as Fine Art Prints
Milky Way over Upper Titcomb Basin #66743 Purchase
The first group of new images from my Rocky Mountains photo tour is now online and ready to view. Click this link to view them. This selection represents the first leg of my trip, the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho. It includes photos made during three separate backpacking trips into the most spectacular backcountry locations in the Sawtooths. Sawtooth Lake, Baron Lakes, and the famous Alice-Toxaway Lakes Loop. Also among this group are images from Little Redfish Lake and meadows of Stanley Basin. Both of these locations yielded some great images on this and previous visits.
The Sawtooth Mountains backcountry has been on my must photograph list for many years. They were on the schedule last year, but due to widespread wildfires and smoke I had to cancel the shoot. This year, however, provided ideal conditions for an extended stay. And I took full advantage of it. In addition to there being no fires or smoke, several passing summer storms provided beautiful evening and morning light. Perfect conditions for landscape photography.
After I complete editing and processing all the images from the rest of the trip I’ll return to the beginning and write detailed posts about all the locations I photographed.
All images are available as fine art prints and for commercial licensing.
Next group of new images coming soon: Wind River Range Wyoming
Stanley Basin, Sawtooth Mountains Idaho #65828 Purchase
Milky Way over Baron Lake, Sawtooth Mountains #66011 Purchase
When I announce my planned list of locations at the start of a lengthy photo tour I always stress the subject to change factor. Now that I’m over eight weeks into this trip it’s very apparent that factor has long ago come into play.
For example, the Grand TetonYellowstonesegment of this trip was originally going to last for around 5-7 days. However the abundance of subject matter, changing seasons, and weather patterns extended my stay to nearly three weeks! When I return to the office I’ll be posting more details on these two iconic locations. Suffice it to say these parks were a definite change of pace from the quiet solitude of backpacking in the Sawtooths and Winds. I’ve now had my fill of park traffic jams, and crowds of selfie obsessed young women!
Sunrise at Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park
It’s also apparent that I most likely will not be continuing to the Canadian Rockies. After Leaving Yellowstone National Park I’ll be making my way up the Rocky Mountain Front Ranges into Glacier National Park. This will probably be the final destination for the trip. Since by the time I arrive fall color should be close to peak, and I’ll be working hard to take advantage of it.
Yellowstone Falls Sunrise
*The photos appearing on this post are quick on the road edits. However they will be reprocessed and made available for sale when I return to the office.
*Please note, due to being out of cell or WiFi range for most of this trip I may not be able immediately to respond to any licensing requests, or blog comments. Print orders that are placed while I’m away on this trip will not be shipped until I return to the office. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
I’m wrapping up two weeks of photography in the main segment of my photo tour, theWind River Range of Wyoming. This part of the trip was a major undertaking for me. Hiking and photographing in the Wind River Range is quite unlike the Sawtooth Mountainsof Idaho. The Sawtooth’s were three mainly moderate length trips at around 18 to 25 miles each, at 8000′ elevation. The trips in the Wind’s however were about 35 to 40 miles each. Trailheads were starting at 9500′, eventually reaching 11,500′ elevation. I’m glad I acclimated to higher altitudes in the sawtooth’s first!
Island Lake Wind River Range Wyoming #67617
Unlike previous visits to the Wind’s there was no sign of major wildfires. While the weather was mostly beautiful summer weather, I did experience several instances of exciting evening and morning light.
While in the Wind’s I also continued experimenting with some night photography. I’m new to this genre of photography, but so far I’m finding it very enjoyable. Although I’d much rather being catching some sleep after a long day of hiking, photographing and swatting mosquitoes!
Now that the busy Labor Day Weekend is over I can safely venture into the next part of the trip. This includes Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, followed by the Beartooth Highway.
Locations Photographed in Wind River Range :
Bonneville Lakes
Island Lake / Titcomb Basin / Indian Basin
Green River Lakes
Squaretop Mountain Wind River Range #69106
*The photos appearing on this post are quick on the road edits. However they will be reprocessed and made available for sale when I return to the office.
*Please note, due to being out of cell or WiFi range for most of this trip I may not be able immediately to respond to any licensing requests, or blog comments. Print orders that are placed while I’m away on this trip will not be shipped until I return to the office. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Today I’m wrapping up the Sawtooth Mountains segment of my summer photo tour. Eleven days and nearly 50 miles of backpacking into some gorgeous areas yielded plenty of new images. All the effort of hauling heavy camera gear into the backcountry certainly paid off. Tomorrow I’m heading to the Wind River Range of Wyoming. Meanwhile I’ll be checking out a few local hot springs!
Locations Photographed in Sawtooth Mountains :
Sawtooth Lake
Baron Lakes
Alice Lake/Toxaway Lake Loop
*The photos appearing on this post are quick on the road edits, literally I’m on the roadside working to publish this post. However they will be reprocessed and made available for sale when I return to the office.
Sawtooth Lake Sawtooth Wilderness Idaho
Sawtooth Lake, Sawtooth Wilderness Idaho
Please note, any print orders that are placed while I’m away on this trip will not be shipped until I return to the office.
Little Redfish Lake Sawtooth Mountains Idaho #56183 Purchase
Summer Photography Tour 2019 is about to begin! This year’s trip is very exciting as I’ll be photographing some of my favorite destinations in the Northern Rocky Mountains. Beginning in the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho I’ll be backpacking in to some of the most dramatic mountain wilderness areas in the lower 48 states and Canada*.
Many of these locations have been on my schedule for several years. However, due to several summers where wildfire smoke hampered photography I had to put them on the back burner. The Wind River Range in particular suffered greatly from these fires. My past two trips to the Winds were frustrated by smoke filled skies, and I came back with only a few photos.
This year, however, is turning out to be mostly free of major wildfires. So I’m going to fully take advantage of the opportunity and hit as many locations as I can. Of course fire smoke is only one obstacle to good landscape photography. I’ll also need good light and some interesting clouds at the right time and place. That’s not too much to ask, is it?
*Please note, any print orders that are placed while I’m away on this trip will not be processed until I return to the office.
The Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho will be a very exciting segment for me. In the past I’ve photographed these mountains from various viewpoints looking into the range. This will be my first foray on trails into the interior. While the exact destinations are not set, at this point I’m planning two separate backpacking excursions, of three to four days each. And of course I’ll also be taking full advantage of the numerous natural hot springs while in the area!
The Wind River Range will be the central focus of this trip. This spectacular section of the Rockies contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the largest glacier in the American Rockies, and over 1300 named lakes, all spread over three designated wilderness areas. While a few areas can get downright crowded with hikers and climbers, there are numerous trails that rarely sees any boot traffic.
If all goes well I will be making three backpacking trips in the Winds, keeping me busy for around 10-14 days. Destinations on my agenda include the Hailey Pass Washakie Pass Loop, Deep Lake, the ever popular popular Cirque of the Towers. Titcomb Basin will be next, and lastly the Green River Lakes area.
After a brief visit to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks my next destination on the schedule is the spectacular Beartooth Highway. One of the highest roads in North America it tops out at 10,497′ on the Wyoming Montana border. Although I don’t have any specifics spots in mind yet, I plan to spend several days exploring and photographing.
North of the Beartooth Highway I’ll make my way through the Missouri River Beaks country. Most people associate Montana with soaring mountains, cool forests and crystal clear lakes and streams. However the eastern half of the state is open grasslands, badlands, cattle ranches and wheat farms. This is Big Sky country, a region where the antelope truly play! Although I love mountains, this wide sprawling country captures my imagination, and I’m always excited to return.
Glacier and Waterton National Parks
Lake McDonald Glacier National Pass #22797 Purchase
Moving westward the next stops are Glacier and Wateron National Parks. Glacier was the second national park I visited, while in my youth on a family vacation. It is also the location of my first true backpacking adventure, accompanied by two high school classmates just after graduation. Unfortunately that was the last time I did a backpacking trip in the park. All my return visits have been road and day-hike based trips.
Glacier is one of the more heavily visited national parks in the country. Parts of the park, such as Logan Pass, can get so crowded during the summer months that parking lots can be overflowing by 8:00 in the morning. I’m hoping that by the time I get to Glacier it will be after Labor Day weekend , and the crowds will have thinned considerably.
Although I’ve visited and photographed in Glacier several times over the years, I’ve visited adjacent Wateron only once. Wateron is much smaller than Glacier, has similar terrain, and represents the southernmost section of the Canadian Rockies. Geologically speaking, however, the Canadian Rockies actually extend to the southern border of Glacier National Park, along U.S. Highway 2.
This will certainly be a good opportunity for me to make up for not visiting Waterton.
The Canadian Rockies
Limestone Lakes Height of the Rockies Provincial Park #461009 Purchase
Finally, after photographing in Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks, I have one last location to visit. I’m optimistically adding Limestone Lakes in Height of the Rockies Provincial Park British Columbia at the last minute. This is one of the more demanding backpacking trips I’ve ever done. However after more than a hundred miles of hiking I should be in good enough shape to tackle it again.
Limestone Lakes is in a very remote and seldom visited corner of the famous Canadian Rockies. It’s about a 17 mile hike into the lakes area, with more than half of that distance on rugged cross-country terrain. Even the trail on the first part is mostly a faint path. The last time I was there I didn’t see anyone else for five days. Hopefully when I get to this last segment of the trip the weather will cooperate.
By this time, If I make it this far, fall color in the higher elevations should be taking hold. Hmm, maybe I can add on a few more weeks and destinations…
List of Locations
Below is a tentative list of locations for this lengthy trip. If you have any locations you’d like me to include, or if you’re in any of these areas and would like to meet up, just drop me an email!
Sawtooth Mountains and hot springs
Wind River Range Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Beartooth Highway
Missouri River Breaks Montana
Glacier National Park
Waterton Lakes National Park
Height of the Rockies Provincial Park
Lake Superior Whitefish Point Michigan #63785 Purchase
If you browse through my website you’ll see that I employ many different styles of photography. Likewise, I don’t like the idea of limiting myself to one method in photographing landscape and nature. Minimalist photography is one approach that has always inspired me. I love how a simple composition can tell a story.
Consequently, my archives of minimalist photographs continues to grow. Therefore, I’m presenting a new Minimalist Photography Gallery showcasing this evocative style. Most of the images in this gallery implements elements of earth, sky, and water. In addition, in some photos high key lighting and pastel tones are used to complete the mood. Please take a look when you get a chance. Also, feel free to comment and share with friends and colleagues. Click here to view the gallery.
Lake Superior Whitefish Point Michigan #63784 Purchase
What is Minimalist Photography?
Minimalism uses empty spaces, colors, patterns, textures, and shapes. These simple elements properly composed can bring focus to subject. This alone can often be enough to convey a concept, or elicit an emotional response.
Visual noise in today’s world increases every day. Images overwhelm us with color, patterns, and information. And they are constantly bombarding us at breakneck speed. All of this can leave a person with a feeling of mental exhaustion. On the other hand, minimalist images can offer a relaxing break from our increasingly stressful world.
Lake Superior Whitefish Point Michigan #63803 Purchase
For example, the healthcare industry often displays minimalist artwork in their facilities. Simple shapes and tones can bring a calming atmosphere to anxious patients. In addition, businesses are also recognizing this benefit. Many offices also use minimalist artwork to relax stressed employees, and increase productivity.
All of the images in this post, and gallery, are available as fine art prints. They are also available for commercial and editorial licensing.
Please scroll down to see more!
Lake Superior Whitefish Point Michigan #63785 Purchase
Heather Meadows Recreation Area is located adjacent to the Mount Baker Wilderness in the North Cascades. Magnificent scenery and numerous hiking trails are the highlights of this special place. In summer visitors can drive to Artist Point on Kulshan Ridge for incredible views of Mount Baker in one direction, and Mount Shuksan in the other. Further down is one of the most iconic mountain scenes in the world, Mount Shuksan reflected in Picture Lake.
In winter Heather Meadows is just as popular a place to visit. The adjacent Mount Baker Ski Areais open, and throngs of backcountry skiers and snowboarders search for untouched powder. January usually provides some breaks in the winter storms, so it’s a good time to make the trip up.
I’ve been visiting Heather Meadows in winter for over twenty years. Mostly for photography but also for the pure exhilaration of the views and crisp cold air. Even though I’ve skied up to Artist Point on Kulshan ridge numerous times I always find something new to photograph. Different lighting conditions and reshaping snow pack will always dress up the scene in a new way. All the photos in this post were made a few weeks ago on a crisp day in late January.
Mount Shuksan and snowdrift Kulshan Ridge #64337 Purchase
Up near the ridge you can find wonderful shapes and patterns in the ever changing snowdrifts. If you are lucky enough to visit just after a heavy storm you’ll also see old growth mountain hemlock trees encased in snow and ice. Also, if you are extraordinarily lucky you may get a glimpse of a steam plume from Mount Baker’s volcanic crater glowing in the evening light!
Swift Creek Valley from Kulshan Ridge #64728 Purchase
Winter Travel Gear Tips
If you go there are a few things to keep in mind. Snowshoes, backcountry skis, or split-board snowboards are the most efficient means of getting around. Skinny cross country skis, or booting it in for even a short distance from the parking lot is exhausting in the deep snow, you’ll be drenched in sweat within minutes. Artist Point is less than two miles and 900′ elevation gain from the parking lot. However, with all your extra winter travel gear that distance can seem much longer.
Don’t even think of going during poor weather! Whiteout conditions, heavy wet snow, and increased avalanche danger does not make for an enjoyable outing. It seems every year there a couple of fatalities directly attributed to those types of conditions. The main route up to Artist Point and Kulshan Ridge is usually safe from avalanches. However, under certain conditions a few areas can be dangerous.
I won’t get into too much detail regarding essentials, but make sure you take the following:
Extra warm clothes, it can be windy and much colder on the ridge.
Plenty of liquids to stay hydrated
High energy snacks
Insulated pad to sit on
Avalanche beacon, probe, shovel, and knowledge of how to use them.
A partner, especially important if you’re new to the area in winter, or venture beyond Artist Point
Common Sense!
Nooksack Ridge from Heather Meadows #64748 Purchase
Photo Gear and Tips
Just like photographing wildflowers in spring or colorful fall foliage, winter photography is all about timing. Maybe even more so. I’m always on the lookout for good conditions. Such as after a good storm covers the trees and peaks in a fresh blanket of snow. Of course it must not be too warm or the snow will quickly melt off the trees and leave them black silhouettes against the white snow.
Photographing from Artist Point, Mount Baker is best photographed in the early morning. Mount Shuksan is best photographed in late afternoon to evening. For Shuksan late winter or early spring is preferred, since the angle of the sun won’t be as low. You’ll get more light on the glaciers then.
For lower down in Heather Meadows morning light can be optimal. Some of the best conditions I’ve seen here are when low clouds or fog are just beginning to lift.
Backcountry skier and tracks North Cascades #64732 Purchase
If you are envisioning untouched pristine snow in your photos you’ll have to get there very early, and immediately after a good snowfall. Backcountry skiing and riding has exploded over the years. Therefore, even the most remote and steepest backcountry terrain is tracked out by midmorning. It’s now nearly impossible to make a photo anywhere in the Heather Meadows area without numerous tracks everywhere.
Before digital I often trekked the meadows and up to the ridge with a 4×5 large format camera, and all its the weighty accessories. Several times I even did it with a full overnight winter pack! Digital has simplified and lightened the load somewhat. Here are a few basic items I always bring along.
Tripod
Polarizing filter
Some form of remote release
Plenty of microfiber lens cleaning clothes, you will drop things in the snow!
Extra batteries
In conclusion, If you would like to learn more about photographing in winter I offer individual and small group instruction and tours. Please check out the Private Instruction/Tourspage, on my companion site.
Canadian Border peak and Larrabee Peak #64754 Purchase
Whatcom Falls Bellingham, Washington #64764 Purchase
This week much of western Washington was hit by a series of snow storms. Snow amount totals vary, but my home in Bellingham topped off with around 12″. What’s more is that it’s staying cold throughout the week, keeping it all from melting. For most areas of the country 12″ of snow isn’t a big deal. But for us living in the coastal lowlands snowfall of any amount is exciting!
Whatcom Falls Bellingham, Washington #64762 Purchase
Whatcom Falls is a Bellingham City park that is only about a mile from my home. The falls are the main attraction but the park also boasts a beautiful old growth forest with towering fir and cedar trees, and numerous hiking trails.
The last time I was able to photograph Whatcom Falls in the snow was around 2008. So to take advantage of the situation I visited the falls three times. Photographing the falls any time of year is ridiculously easy. There is a stone arch bridge spanning the creek at a perfect viewpoint. All you need is a tripod, a lens in the 24-55mm range and maybe a polarizer.
Whatcom Falls Bellingham, Washington #64765 Purchase
Whatcom Falls Bellingham, Washington #64761 Purchase
Taylor Dock Boardwalk, Bellingham WA #64663 Purchase
2018 is turning out to be a year of new beginnings. Along with the launching of my new website comes this first blog post of the year, featuring several new images. These new photos are even more special in that are the first made using an entirely new camera system.
Last week during a brief window of decent weather I took a short break from working on the new website. This break enabled me to finally get out in the field to test out my new Nikon D850 camera system and a couple new filters. I find reading and writing reviews of photo gear a huge bore. So, if you’re interested in my opinions of the D850 you can contactme. I’ll be happy to share my first impressions.
The first photo above is from Boulevard Park, along Bellingham Bay. Aside from the new camera and lens, this was my first photo using a Lee Big Stopper filter. For those not familiar, the Big Stopper is a neutral density filter that dramatically increases the length of exposure. This extended shutter speed results in any movement becoming blurred. In the case above, the sky and water took on a silky texture. Photographing after sunset during the “Blue Hour” adds to the mood with cooler saturated tones.
Larrabee State Park
Wildcat Cove Sunset, Larrabee State Park #64670 Purchase
The next day I decided to head down to one of my favorite local winter destinations, Larrabee State Park. Usually I stop by Clayton Beach on the south end of the park. However, since I’ve made numerous photos from that great location I decided to check out Wildcat Cove beach. I haven’t been there for many years and I forgot how scenic it can be.
The tide was going out, exposing some interesting and extremely slippery rocks. The winter light was also warm and pleasant with some nice wispy high clouds. Since it was mid-week there weren’t many people. So it was nice to leisurely set up my gear and make a few photos as the sun went down.
I wanted to get in more practice with the Lee Filters so I made couple more tries. Exposures of even a few minutes long seem to take forever when it’s getting dark and cold!
Wildcat Cove Sunset, Larrabee State Park #64695 Purchase
Wildcat Cove Sunset, Larrabee State Park #64696 Purchase
Following up on my Photo Highlights 2018post I’m presenting BW Photo Highlights 2018. It’s always a difficult task to select around ten of my favorite images from the past year. This year I wanted to include some black and white photos in the main group. However they looked somewhat out of place among the other color images, and I felt they need to in their own separate group.
As in Photo Highlights 2018please feel free to vote or comment on your favorite photos in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you. Also, if you enjoyed these images please share this post with friends family and coworkers. Finally, all of the photos are available as fine art prints and commercial licensing, just click on any to see purchasing options. I hope all of you have a new year filled with peace, prosperity, and joy!
#2Lake Superior at Whitefish Point Michigan #63780bw Purchase
#3Lake Superior at Whitefish Point Michigan #63803bw Purchase
#4Lake Superior at Whitefish Point Michigan #63784bw Purchase
#5 Battery Valleau, Fort Casey State Park, Whidbey Island, Washington #62126bw Purchase
#6Fort Casey State Park, Whidbey Island, Washington #62120bw Purchase
Photo Highlights 2018:Another year coming to a close, and what a year it was! Like every year there were plenty of ups and downs, but 2018 really packed them in. Most of 2018 was dominated by family related obligations, which for extended periods kept me from working on my business. However, at one point those same obligations opened up a unique opportunity for me to travel to new photography destinations. Some of the photos in this post were a result of that opportunity.
Every December when I put together these yearly photo highlights I’m somewhat uncertain of which images to include. On one hand I want to share my most creatively and technically successful photos. But on the other hand I also want to share photos of memorable moments, which may not hold any appeal to others. Fortunately many of the following images represent both viewpoints. In fact nearly all of them hold a very deep emotional bond to me, and they will always stand out as powerful memories to a year filled with turning points.
Please feel free to vote or comment on your favorite photos in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you. Also, if you enjoyed these images please share this post with friends family and coworkers. Finally, all of the photos are available as fine art prints and commercial licensing, just click on any to see purchasing options. I hope all of you have a new year filled with peace, prosperity, and joy!
#1) Skagit Valley Daffodill Fields. Unable to get out for winter photography this year I was looking forward to a short trip down to the Skagit Valley for the annual daffodil and tulip blooms. This morning offered a brief burst of light and color in an otherwise grey sky.
Yellow Aster Butte Basin, North Cascades #62789 Purchase
#2) Tarn in Yellow Aster Butte Basin, Mount Baker Wilderness, North Cascades. This is one of the more popular hiking destinations in the North Cascades. Less than two hours from my home, I like to return here every few years, for both photography and just getting away. On this trip I enjoyed watching and photographing this group clouds change shapes at sunset.
Mount Sir Donald, British Columbia #62836 Purchase
#3) Mount Sir Donald, seen from Abbott Ridge, Glacier National Park British Columbia. This photo marks the beginning of a lengthy trip that took me to a variety of destinations in the Midwest, and beyond. Glacier National Park, in British Columbia’s Selkirk Mountains, has some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the province. The park also has some of the most steepest and challenging hiking trails around. The hike up to this viewpoint gained 3400′ in about 3.5 miles, a real thigh burner!
#4) Upper Falls, Old Man’s Cave, Hocking Hills State Park Ohio. Further along on the same trip I spent a sweltering August week in Chicago on family related business. When finished I started the main photo tour in earnest. Hocking Hills State Park is a great location I found out about via a rest stop visitor’s guide a few years ago. This region in eastern Ohio is marked by picturesque rolling hills. Hocking Hills State Park contains a few sandstone gorges filled with pretty waterfalls and overhangs. Unfortunately the steamy humidity followed me here from Chicago and continued tormenting me for most of the trip.
#5) Sunset at Lindy Point, Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia. This was my first visit to the central ranges of the Appalachian Mountains. Unlike mountains out west the Appalachians rarely offer sweeping views above tree line. Here in Blackwater Falls State Park, Lindy Point offers a rare panoramic view of the mountains and valleys. Having the area mostly to myself, I spent the entire afternoon and evening watching and photographing the fascinating changes in clouds and light. And yes, it was still horribly hot and humid!
#6) Windy Sunset over Lake Superior at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Michigan was another new destination on this trip. I had been looking forward to photographing many of it’s locations on the Great Lakes and Upper Peninsula for years. While photographing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore the wind really whipped up at sunset. I took advantage of the conditions to try some minimalist compositions and slow shutter speeds. I’ll soon be working on a separate post featuring more images from Lake Superior in this style. You can see several more right now in the New Images 2018 gallery.
Pictured Rocks National lakeshore #63933b Purchase
#7) Elliot Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Michigan. This fun little waterfall was on my must see list when visiting Pictured Rocks. The waterfall itself isn’t very big or exciting, but together with spilling directly into Lake Superior over colorful layers of sandstone really makes it stand out. Just before sunset those layers took on a nice warm glow that added another nice dimension to the scene.
#8) White River valley Overlook, Badlands National Park South Dakota. On the way home on Interstate 90 after a long tour I couldn’t pass up making a brief stop in Badlands National Park. I always enjoy visiting this fascinating terrain, plus I was thrilled to be out west again and out of the Midwest humidity. This is another one of those locations that you can visit over and over and always see something new in different seasons and lighting conditions.
Liberty Bell Mountain North Cascades #64469 Purchase
#9) Liberty Bell Mountain at Washington Pass on a frosty fall morning. The photographic year ended early for me in 2018, but on a very high note. I was swamped with work after returning from nearly seven weeks on the road. Between catching up on business, photo editing, and home projects, I had little time to get out again. But I couldn’t pass up a good stretch of fall weather at the beginning of October. I headed up the North Cascades Highway to some of my favorite spots, Washington Pass and Rainy Pass. After a fresh snowfall this scene at Washington Pass took on an interesting mood as a bit of fog rolled in over the pass. I’ve photographed this area for over thirty years and this is one of my favorite images so far.
Liberty Bell Mountain, North Cascades #64568 Purchase
#10) Liberty Bell Mountain from Washington Pass Overlook. My final image is a companion to #9, made about an hour later. After photographing from the meadows in the previous image I almost packed it in and left, since I felt the light had played itself out for the morning. However, I had a hunch to stop by the paved overlook trail to see what may be happening there. I’m glad I did, the light was still and warm with nice wispy clouds in a blue sky. This is a classic Northwest view photographed millions of times, but it never gets old for me. Driving out from Chicago in a beat up old car when I was 19, this was my first view of the North Cascades. I fell in love with these mountains right then and there, and I always feel blessed I can call them home!
I’m very excited to announce my latest photo schedule. Beginning this week I will be leaving on a Summer / Fall Photography Tour which includes a wide variety of cool locations. While the length of the trip and the specific locations are subject to change, it’s safe to say this one will be big.
Possibly extending into the fall season the trip will begin in the Bugaboo Range of the Purcell Mountains of British Columbia. Then I will be moving on to the Midwest and the Appalachian areas of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Looping back west will take me through Michigan’s Upper Penninsula and the North Shore of Lake Superior. If time allows on the return home I may also fit in photographing the Wind River Range of Wyoming and a few selected sites in Montana.
Listed below are some of the locations and subject matter I hope to work with. However, with a trip this big it is difficult to say how factors such as weather and time constraints will affect the list. Of course I am always open to suggestions for locations and subject matter you have interest in seeing. Feel free to contact me through email, texts or FB Messenger.
General Locations: Purcell Mountains British Columbia: Bugaboos, Jumbo Pass
Ohio: Hocking Hills Region
West Virginia: Appalachian Mountains, Babcock and Blackwater State Parks
Pennsylvania: Laurel Highlands Region
Michigan: Lake Michigan Lighthouses, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Minnesota: North Shore Lake Superior
Wind River Range Wyoming Subject Matter:
Mountain views
Farms/Agriculture
Lighthouses
Waterfalls
Historic Sites
Country Roads and Byways
Make sure you also check my Facebook and Instagram pages to see new image updates as this trip progresses.
Whatcom Peak North Cascades National Park #61501 Purchase
Recently while filling an order for a client I came across a couple of images of Whatcom Peak North Cascades National Park in my archive that caught my attention. Both photos are from last year’s trip to Whatcom Pass in North Cascades National Park. Both are also good examples of what may be called pre-visualization and post-visualization.
Pre-visualization is being able to view a subject in the field and visualize how it may appear in its final form. Post-visualization, my own term, is fulfilling the vision during processing. Many times I have images in my files that haunt me in a way. Meaning I remember the pre-visualization, but I’m not seeing the processing solution to make it appear. However they keep catching my eye, beckoning me to keep trying.
In the field both of these images struck me as having all the elements of a compelling photograph. I also new at the time how they should appear in a final print. However, after initial processing and editing none of that pre-visualization came out. As a result I assigned them a lower ranking in the archive.
Whatcom Peak North Cascades National Park #61502 Purchase
Achieving the solution is sometimes only technical in nature. Other times it’s of a creative nature, or of course a combination of both. In this instance it’s the latter. Although I’m quite happy with the results you see here, it’s possible I’m still short of the original vision. In the future I may rethink the processing. Maybe they need just a tweak, or maybe something completely different. It’s all part of the creative journey.
To see more images from this trip read my two part blog, Whatcom Pass Tapto Lakes, North Cascades National Park.
All images are available as fine art prints, or for stock licensing. Feel free to comment on this post and share it with friends and colleagues. Thanks for visiting!
This past month I’ve been working on a black and white nature study, which so far includes ferns and wildflowers. These are subjects I’ve always enjoyed photographing. Getting in close reveals wonderful patterns and details that aren’t always apparent in a quick glance. In the coming months I hope to add more images of a variety of natural objects to this group.
Spring is a great time of the year for photographing plants and flowers. For the most part the flowers fronds and leaves are fresh and undamaged by the elements. Although it is not apparent in these images, the colors are also very vibrant.
In this series I’ve processed the images in two fashions. The first is my standard method of applying a duotone to the image. This gives it a look and feel somewhat like selenium toning a traditional silver gelatin print. Having worked extensively with traditional film based materials I work to carry that look into my digital processing.
Digital Polaroid Type 55
The second method of processing seen in some of the images is a faux Polaroid/Antique look. When I was photographing with a large format view camera one of my favorite films was Polaroid Type 55. Sadly this film is no longer in production. However, die-hard fans can find some outdated packages on Ebay, sold at a very high price.
Since most people may not be familiar with this product a brief description is in order. Polaroid Type 55 film contains both a standard print and negative in the same peel apart package. Photographing with this film also requires a specially designed holder. The holder facilitates both exposure in the camera and developing the print negative. A darkroom is not needed for processing. However, you must treat the negative in a fixer solution afterwards.
Aside from the convenience of instant developing without a darkroom, photographers loved the printing qualities of the negative, and the always unique border the negative has. It is this negative pattern that I am digitally incorporating into these new images. The second part of processing these new images is to use a textured overlay and a warm sepia tone.
All of this comes together in a style which I plan to incorporate and expand on in future images. I hope you enjoy them, and of course feel free to leave comment, or purchase prints!
Last Saturday I made my annual spring pilgrimage down to the Skagit Valley Daffodil Fields. Being the end of March means that the fields are in full bloom and the tulips aren’t too far behind. Like most years, I drove though most of the valley roads to see which fields have tulips and daffodils. Since the fields planted with bulbs change location every year it’s worth scouting out in advance where the best compositions may be.
In my experience one of the best fields for photography is the one appearing in this blog. The row of poplar trees always adds a great compositional element, with the rows providing nice symmetry to the composition. A few years ago this field was planted with beautiful red tulips, however this year it’s yellow daffodils. Next year it’s most likely going to be fallow.
Photographing Skagit Valley Daffodil Fields can be a bit more challenging than photographing tulips. This is mostly because daffodils bloom earlier in the season. In late March the weather is still winter-like with rain and cold winds. Since daffodil blossoms stand higher on thinner stalks than tulips, they sway easily in a slight breeze. So, if you’re lucky enough to have good light you may be hampered by windy conditions.
Most photographers know that it pays to get up before dawn to take advantage of blue hour light and sunrise light. Here in the Skagit Valley, another good reason to arrive early is to beat the crowds. On a sunny weekend the roads will be gridlocked like Seattle on a Friday afternoon. At the height of the bloom it may seem like everyone on the entire West Coast is here to get a photo of their loved ones in the tulip fields! So go early, and preferably on a weekday.
Other Skagit Valley Daffodil Fields Attractions
Besides photographing Skagit Valley daffodil fields and tulips the lower Skagit Valley also boasts some other worthwhile attractions. Foremost among these are the snow geese and trumpeter swans. Every winter through early spring these beautiful white birds come to the fields to rest and feed before resuming their long journey north. They move among the fields every day, so it can be a challenge to photograph them in the best location. If you plan on photographing these birds please refrain from alarming them. While it’s a magnificent sight to see an entire flock in flight, it also cause undo stress on them.
Another attraction I rarely miss out on is Snow Goose Produce, located on Fir Island Road. Aside from local produce, seafood, and crafts, their ice cream cones are outstanding. A single scoop in a freshly made waffle cones is a must have. I swear that a single scoop translates into nearly a pint of ice cream!
Of course a visit to the lower Skagit Valley wouldn’t be complete without stopping by LaConner, a self-described artist enclave and boater’s paradise. Aside from browsing the quaint shops and having a bite to eat, photographers can come away with some great travel photos from this picturesque town. Hint, photograph the red bridge and sailboats in evening light!
Oregon Natural Desert Association is a grassroots organization that promotes awareness and protection of unique environments of the Oregon Desert. Several years ago I was approached by Jim Davis, one of the founders of ONDA, to contribute photos for their yearly promotional calendar. Until then I wasn’t even aware of ONDA, but I quickly jumped at the chance to have my photography help with their conservation efforts. Being a lifelong landscape and nature photographer I always look for opportunities to give something back to the environment, and also help others appreciate the natural world we live in.
So when ONDA asked if I was interested in sharing some desert photography tips for their blog I didn’t hesitate to join in. The post has numerous tips from a variety of photographers that have contribute to the ONDA calendar. Many tips can apply to all landscape and nature photography subjects, but some are specific to desert environments.
Full moon over Warner Lakes Wetlands, Oregon #60939 Purchase
The two photos above illustrate two important tips for all landscape photography. The first being, make sure to scout out locations with potential for good compositions in advance. That way you’ll know just where to go when the light gets good later on. Here at Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge I wanted to find a good spot to make some photographs of Warner Lakes. While spending the afternoon hiking the slopes of hart Mountain, I looked an elevated view along with a foreground that included some features native to the area. Here I included ubiquitous sagebrush and basalt boulders.
Secondly, photograph in the best light. There are many types of lighting conditions to work with and not all are suitable for every subject. I already photographed both of the above images the previous evening. However clouds had diminished the quality of light. The next morning I awoke early, ready to work in the soft saturated light present during the Blue Hour. Many photographers pack it in as soon as the sun goes down, but it’s worthwhile to keep working. The hour following sunset can offer a soft colorful glow with low contrast. Not all Blue Hour light is equal though. Wispy high clouds directly above can reflect warm light down on your subject. However, those same clouds can cancel out any color if they are situated on and below the horizon where the sun set or rises.
The photos above and below illustrate another important tip, be patient. Watch the weather, and wait it out until the light is gone. In both photos I experienced good light at the last minute. The weather had been dismal and grey for the entire day, and it didn’t look good for evening light. Both locations were very remote, especially Owyhee Canyon. Meaning there was no cell signal, so I couldn’t check weather forecasts. With nowhere else to go it just made sense to wait and see what happened, in these instances I was lucky.
When photographing the immensely popular Painted Hills, I was the only photographer that stayed. Everyone else gave up on the light and left. I also had my doubts until a tiny clearing in the clouds opened up on the horizon. Fortunately this clearing was were the sun would be setting. When the sun poked through this clearing I had less five minutes of good light to work with, but it was enough.
Another tip, and one that many photographers scoff at, is don’t neglect midday light. While not as common, making good photos during the middle part of the day is possible. Interesting cloud formations or approaching storms can add an often overlooked dimension to a landscape. Also, this is a good time to get a bit creative. Experiment with minimalism, low saturation or black and white. The image below of Alvord Lake may not have the dramatic qualities to make it on the cover of Landscape or Outdoor photographer, or garner thousands of likes on Instagram or 500PX. However, it does illustrate the barren aspect of the Alvord Desert.
Oregon Desert Photography Tip: Enjoy Your Surroundings!
If you’re photographing in the Oregon Desert, and especially the southeast corner, check out the many hot springs. After a job well done there’s nothing like a soak in a natural hot spring. Just sit back and enjoy the view!
Squaretop Mountain Wind River Range Wyoming #67138 
