Having a Ball!

I know this picture wasn't taken today, and doesn't count as my picture of the day! (Besides I already posted two today). I was looking through old images that I have captured and remember this fun image I took when my family and I went bowling. I love my mother waving in the background. I don't know why, but I smile at all the personalities in the photo. Some didn't want their picture taken, some were excited and then my mom is just saying hello to the camera. As she is saying hello, I am saying goodnight!- very long day!

After visiting family I headed home and drove to some of my 'typical' spots, unable to find an image that I liked. These two postings were taken at the aquaduct. I wish the sky in the corn picture was more colorful; however, it wasn't. In the opposite direction, the river was pretty rough and so there was nothing remarkable in that direction either. I took the corn picture, choosing to go as close as I could, and turned around to find the river as smooth as ice! Within 5 minutes the river calmed and the reflections were visible. Again, I wish the colors were more vibrant in the trees but I was struck of how quickly the environment had changed in such a short period of time. Maybe nature was letting me know that change can occur when you least expect it in life. Just when you think life is difficut it can all turn around. I like that idea. I hope there is some pleasure in the images because for me there was much more "beyond the view."

Spectacular Finish!!

Another great road race, another wonderful fall day....and my niece Jaime came in second place! She ran so well today, so strong. What is more impressive to me is Jaime's positive attitude and her determination. I am as proud of an uncle whether she finishes second or last. I like sporting events because the athletes are pushing themselves to accomplish a goal. At running events one can see athletes of all ages and abilities. Young and old(er) all share a common experience for that moment in time.

Early To Bed, Early To Rise

This morning, at 6am, I decided to go for a ride and enjoy the fog and peacefullness of empty streets. Passing a cemetery I noticed that the only stones visible from the road were those that have crosses attatched. Since childhood, I have always collected crosses and as an adult crosses bring me comfort. Whether they are symbols of a particular, organized religion, or not, to me crosses are a symbol of peace and a higher force. Crosses remind me to keep life in perspective when things aren't going so well and to remain thankful when life brings blessings. "When the seas are rough you should point the boat to land. Row to shore, plant your feet solidly on the ground and walk forward." Crosses remind me to walk forward, as silly as that may sound. I also took this landscape scene; however, the image is not nearly as beautiful as the actual location. Enjoy!

Going Strong!

A trip to Vermont today allowed me to capture some images for my daily post. I didn't strike it rich with hundreds of photos; however, I was pleased with the few that I took. I keep reminding myself that "real" photographers do not capture stunning images each time they go out, so I need to take some pressure off of myself. I'm always looking for that wonderful image but need to realize that I won't always find it. I spent a much needed day in the country and that is more important than capturing the award winning photograph that I was seeking....well it should be more important! Anyway, the rocking chair was inviting for anyone that had walked around the quaint towns of Vermont for hours; however, for me I was drawn to the vibrant color of the chair contrasted by the colors of the pillow. The church photo is your typical Vermont scene. Regardless of how typical it may be I think those scenes are eye catching each time one sees them. How could I pass up two cows in love? The firetrucks caught my eye from across the street because of the line that they were in which showcased their 'sameness'. Hope the images are pleasing to you too!

Tehnique Alert

Thank you for the kind comments regarding my last picture, the circle of soccer. I saw the coach gathering the girls in a circle around her and I liked the symbolism that as coach, she was standing in the middle of her 'troops'. I photographed that image and then in elements I quickly eliminated a few items-gym bag and soccer ball from the frame. I wanted the grass to be the background without clutter. I used a filter to give the image a swirl or two and the image, on the blog, is the result. What filter? uh...mmm...I honestly forgot! But it was fun practicing with all the filter possibilities.

Game time! Before the rains came, the team, with the coach as the leader, came up with a game plan. Sadly, the team lost a close 4-3 game, but they played their hearts out!

A Senior Already!

Today, I had the pleasure of photographing a former

student for her senior portrait. Working with Trish Johnson, or should I say for Trish, was also a pleasure.

Trish is a calm and steady photographer who always remains patient with me, inspires me and supports me.

I was reminded during today's shoot to do what I think I do best, and that is to shoot "free". I ditched the cumbersome tripod which freed me to be more creative. Trish moved the subject to the window, ditching the cumbersome lighting aparatus. As a result the subject has some great photos to enjoy! I'm planning on breaking

more rules and freeing myself up from all the techniques of photography, choosing to focus more on my subject.

Night at Proctors

First day of the 365 photo-challenge!! I went to Proctors Theater in Schenectady to watch a 3-D movie. These lights were beautiful and so I had to take a picture! I should have used a tripod; however, I think I did a fairly good job without. Day 2 is tomorrow..what will I take then??? This going to be a challenge!