"A Desert Garden"

With all the rain that California received this winter, I decided to visit Borrego Springs in hopes to capture some flowering desert plants. I wasn’t disappointed! In some areas, the desert floor was blanketed with color; purples, pinks, yellow and white too. The desert is sometimes referred to as the flowering desert and I could see why; I have never seen the desert so vibrant with color! I walked around for quite some time before I found this composition; one that would lead your eyes to the distant mountains (which adds to its overall scale). With my camera on a tripod, and only a foot from the ground, and only a inches from the foreground flowers, I used my wide angle lens. Then, I had to take multiple images and stack them (in post production) to get the depth of field I desired. The purple flowered plant are called, “Desert Sand Verbena’s”. They’re creepers that grow wild (and well after rains), in the sands of Mexico, California and Arizona and can cover vast areas (as I saw!). The sweet scented “Dune Evening Primrose” (the white flowers) grow to 18 inches tall and grow in clusters of up to 40 inches in diameter. They can be found in all of the southern states, especially around sandy dunes. They also go by other names, including; Desert Primrose, Birdcage Evening Primrose, Devil’s Lantern, Lion-in-a-cage and Basket Evening Primrose.

"The Final Act"

I get asked a lot about RVing; most of which are out of curiosity, or stem from their own aspirations. The first thing I mention is that a RVing lifestyle is not for everyone; although there are so many rewards, you also give up (or compromise) a lot too. I suppose, it’s what you choose to focus on :-) I usually don’t know where I’m going to park for the night because my curiosity leads my way. Yes, I’ve been caught from time to time (whoops!); searching in the dark for a place to park. Once I’ve parked however and the blinds are down, "I’m home”. Admittedly, sometimes I wake up and wonder, “Where am I?”. That said, it’s so amazingly freeing but I have to face my fears and the challenges too (as there are anywhere). I usually park were I think there could be a late evening or early morning shot. So, when I parked on this open plain, I parked facing some shapely mountains in the east. My thought was that the setting sun would cast some beautiful light on them but that was a bust. When I stepped outside the RV however and looked west, I was surprised by the amazing colors and cloud formations. The sun was setting fast, so I rushed to grab my camera! Fortunately this tree wasn't too far away (and the only one around, lucky me!). I didn’t want too much of the foreground in this photo and I wanted the sky to look REALLY grand so I laid down on the ground, with my head in the sand, and shot up at the tree. I then placed the setting sun directly behind it so it would glow from behind. The tree looks massive here but it was only 8 feet tall! LOL :-) A RV lifestyle does have its challenges but for me, it’s such a small price to pay when I get these kinds of shots.

"Shared Beauty"

I recently attended a Photography conference in Pincher Creek, Alberta, and one of the many things that was discussed was the pros and cons of social media. This is my take on social media (relating to creativity). Although there’s a lot of negative, associated with social media these days, there are a lot of positive aspects too. Sure, for some it’s all about how many likes, followers and comments they get but for others however, they simply want to share their art because it gives them joy; a reason. and a goal…. thus purpose. Art (of any kind) is therapy and sharing one’s creations makes the artist feel purposeful; that then, is their reward. We create, we learn, we share…. repeat. Life is in the sharing and that’s why I’ve shared this image with you. I sincerely thank you all for being my receptive audience…. here on social media :-) *Anise Swallowtail Butterfly (Papilio Zelicaon), found in Western North America.

"Desert Surprise"

I get so pumped when I find the "extra ordinary", in the "ordinary." I had planned to travel 7 hours on this early Arizona morning however a bursting storm cell caught my eye, and that's all I needed to abandon my plans; I took the next exit. As I gained in elevation, I began to notice snow on the distant mountains, while pockets sunlight and dark shadows danced along the desert vegetation. The scene was absolutely jaw-dropping! That said, I knew this image would be a “keeper” so I didn't waste any time to capture this shot. The elements in this image are compositionally harmonious, and I'd call it Mother Nature’s masterpiece (just waiting to be frozen in time).

"Free To Fly"

Swans, such a beautiful and majestic bird. I named this beautiful image “Free To Fly” in memory of my Father and my late husband’s Mother(93) for how they’ve inspired me. My Dad displayed strength and taught me to stand proud, while my Mother-In-Law showed me compassion and taught me grace. Together (like these swans), they taught me how to courageously take flight…. gracefully on my own. The swan is a symbol of love, devotion and partnership (likely because they mate for life), and have also come to symbolize the ability to overcome challenges, and represents transformations. The swan is the traditional symbol of beauty, elegance and grace. It’s considered unlucky to bring them harm to a swan; in some cultures they’re considered sacred. The swan is the largest and heaviest bird in North America yet they can fly at a rate of 50 MPH (on average) but have been known to fly up to 70MPH, which is surprising considering they weigh up to 30 pounds (and eat as much as 8 pounds of food each day)! They’re fiercely protective of their young and are very intelligent (they will come to recognize you).

"Date Tree Perspective"

I love abstract images; especially those with repeating patterns, lines or shapes (like this image). You might ask: “What makes this image work?”, “Why did I choose to focus on just one tree?” “Where’s the rest of the photo?” (lol) Although the central date tree is the most defining element in this photograph, it’s more about the shapes and repeating pattern. Notice how I placed the date tree smack-dab in the middle of the image, and how both the left and right sides of the image are almost mirrored. Notice too how the tree-line, the fronds and the ground are really just shapes; repeated on both sides. Together, these elements make this image an outstanding abstract ….in my humble opinion… :-)

"Curve-Billed Thrasher"

As a photographer, living in my RV for months at a time, does provide some great photographic opportunities and advantages and although I am always in search of locations and subjects, sometimes the shot is right outside my door (how blessed!). I was cooking breakfast in the desert when I was alerted by the beautiful song of this Curve Billed Thrasher. I quickly grabbed my camera and darted out the door; in my slippers and housecoat.... not daring to take the time to change! The soft Arizona light was absolutely gorgeous for the shot, and so too was the scene and the bird's stance. I crossed my fingers as I walked towards it, that it wouldn't fly away! After I took my first shot, I took a step closer and then took a second shot, and then another, and another until it eventually took flight. This was the my last shot; at the full extension of my 400mm lens. Of the various thrashers in the southwestern deserts, the Curve-Billed Thrasher is one of the most prevalent. It’s a medium-sized that’s about the size of a Robin (but slightly longer). It’s a non-migratory bird that’s native to the southwestern US states and Mexico; I often saw them. Their eye color varies from yellow to orange and they lurk around cactus, desert shrubs and even in some urban areas where desert vegetation has been planted. I love the balance and composition of this photograph; the curvature of the tree, the flowers on either side and how the depth of field separates the subject.

"Prairie Patchwork"

"Prairie Patchwork" Remember how isolated and cut off from the world we felt during Covid? Well, because of the many devastating and massive wildfires in British Columbia, many are (once again) stuck inside because of the smoke. Many homes, farms, businesses, forests (the poor animals!) have been lost as the fire continues to rage. That said, a heartfelt "THANK YOU!" goes out to all the firefighters and citizens who are not only putting themselves in harms way, but they are also breathing the worst of the smoke. As the wind changes direction, the smoke's intensity changes. That said, sometimes the smoke is so thick that I have to head inside. So, to keep busy I've been editing some images; this is one of them. I captured this image east of Leduc, Alberta (in the Canadian prairies). At first, I merely glanced at the cut lines but as the rolling hills came into play this patchwork pattern appeared. I walked around the field in hopes of creating this patchwork pattern (the lines had to match up perfectly). From a compositional standpoint, I chose to leave the approaching storm in the image because it gives the viewer a sense of distance. I also think the simplicity in the contrasting colors adds to the abstract nature of this image. . There's rain is in the forecast today; I hope it's enough to help put an end to the ravaging fires here in BC.

"Forest Formation"

"Ice Melt"

I enjoy searching for abstract images in nature. Even when there doesn't seem to be anything to shoot, there’s always something... if you look. This image is of floating and receding lake ice. I immediately noticed the patterns, shapes, textures, lines, form and values (densities) and new it would be a keeper. Interestingly, a hour later the ice had melted and the image was gone forever.

"Be Brave"

To "be brave". I became very philosophical when I took this photo; I was moved to tears. This photo was taken on a country back-road in the middle of “Nowhereville” California, where birds were gliding between the towering cliffs above, and the sound of fast moving water echoed from below. It was so peaceful, and I was at one with the stillness. As I looked through my viewfinder, it struck me that the bridge represented the path to new beginnings and the blind corner represented the unknown that lie ahead. All alone, I cried.... then, with a sense of gratitude, I wiped my tears, pulled up my big girl pants and crossed the bridge. It takes courage to venture into the unknown but we can choose to be brave and "write" many amazing chapters in our book of life, if we choose. On to the next chapter.... ;-)

"Mother Nature's Jewel"

I always considered myself lucky when I happen upon one of these beautiful Red Columbines in the forest; hence I named this image, “Mother Nature’s Jewel”. The highly decorative Columbine grows wild in many parts of North America. This one, happened to be growing near my cabin in British Columbia. They grow in poor soil conditions, are generally found in shaded areas and are composed of 5 distinct red petals and upright red spurs. The Columbine flower meanings include aspiration, endurance, ascension, risk-taking, good fortune, faith, and peace. Hmmm, now I really consider myself lucky when I see a Red Columbine!

"To Be Seen"

I believe there’s an art to seeing. Having said that, do you merely "look", or do you "see"? I arrived at this location with the intent on capturing a developing thunderous sky…. but then, I saw this. It’s hard to say how many of you would have noticed this over the (attention grabbing) darkening sky but I’m sure that most of you wouldn’t have noticed, or just simply just given it a glance. Like most artists, the love of art has the power to make us change the way you see things. With an imaginative and creative eye, an artist will notice things like shapes, colors, highlights (brights), shadows (darks) compositions and (the dreaded) obstructions too. The art then is in pulling it all together to produce an image that captures the viewer’s attention. It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. I named this photograph “To Be Seen” because just like art, we all need to be seen, loved, valued and appreciated. The world is SO beautiful when you go beyond looking.

"Glow In The Dark"

Night time photography is a grand time to practice patience and enjoy the undisturbed sounds of nature; when most other photographers have gone home. Yes, focusing, camera settings, and even walking in the dark of night can be tricky but the rewards can be astonishing. It’s almost impossible to find a composition in the desert (let alone in the dark!), so I found this composition earlier in the day and headed out before the sun had set. Once my tripod and camera gear were positioned and at the ready, I put on my head lamp and bundled up to wait for darkness to fall. I continually checked and adjusted my exposure settings as the lighting conditions changed. Finally, when I couldn’t see in front of me anymore, and only a faint glow of the sunset remained, I was satisfied with the lighting conditions and a 30 second exposure time. That said, with the such a long shutter speed my camera was able to capture what I could not see! The magical aura that night time photography creates, certainly takes center stage in this shot. As a photographer it’s thrilling to see something as beautiful as this created from the darkness! :-)

"Parker Arizona Sunscape"

The mountains around Parker, in western Arizona, are quite stunning and unique. These mountains however are actually across the Colorado River, in California. I felt fortunate capture this sunset scene with all the varying colors and highlights; read on. I had hiked towards the mountains, at a different location, in hopes of a sunrise view and although it was beautiful, I figured a February sunset view would likely be better. I drove around in search of the perfect (sunset) viewpoint but because I was in my RV, I was limited to where I could go. I did however find a service road through an open field and although it was definitely not meant for a RV, I went anyways; the view was perfect. I cooked dinner while I waited for the sun to set but at the last moment clouds rolled in and covered the sun, darn. I returned the next evening and hoped the threatening clouds would cooperate. Fortunately, the sun peaked through just long enough to get this (one!) shot I wanted because, poof…. the sun disappeared. This is a 3 image panoramic stack, hence the detail. What does that mean? It means I took 3 images, left to right, and put them together in post processing to make one (large file) panoramic image (great for enlargements).

"The Bearded Tree"

As mentioned previously, I’ve started to hone in on some more intimate scenes, like this one. Being so very visual, I tend to notice smaller scenes and with more practice of late, I’m starting to feel much more confident in pulling it all together. Although this photo may not resonate with everyone, I'm drawn to it's mystical qualities.     I’ve often pondered, what takes an image from being a “snapshot”, to a piece majestic piece of “art”? It’s starts with the photographer observing the elements. That said, before composing this photograph, I considered these five things:  1. Geometry (the placement of the tree in the frame)  2. The color or colors (I loved the monochromatic look).  3. Luminosity (I loved the addition of the fog).  4. Contrast (soft light results in low contrast).  5. Mood (what was the general mood I wanted to capture).   This photograph was taken in an ancient forest on Vancouver Island, BC. The cascading hairs are often referred to as “Old Man’s Beard” or “Grandfather’s Beard” but I’ve known it as “Witch’s beard” (hmmm......). They’re in the lichen family and are known as “Bearded Lichen (Usnea Longissima). They can grow up to 20 feet in length and with this tree hanging over a ridge, these beards were darn close!

"Mount Robson"

Established in 1913, Mount Robson Provincial Park is the second oldest park in the province of British Columbia, Canada. At 3,954 meters, or 12,972 feet, it is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and towers majestically over the surrounding peaks. I drive past Mount Robson quite often, and for years I’ve wanted get a shot of it however the mountain top was always covered in cloud (not the shot I wanted). So, you can imagine how excited I was when this scene came into view… pinch me!! Wowsers, the snow, the clinging clouds, the pristine blue sky and the turquoise ice in the river.... my lucky day! One of the highlights and draws to Mount Robson is the Berg Lake Trail, which is a 42 kilometer/29 mile long. This world-renowned back-country hiking route features some of the finest scenery in British Columbia; I hope I can hike it someday! The park offers many other activities though, including: camping, canoeing, fishing, cycling, horseback riding, rock climbing and caving… to mention just a view.

"Seymour River Falls"

"Seymour River Falls" Seymour River Falls, is not an easy falls to capture because the water falls into a deep and rocky gorge, which carries on for approximately half a kilometer (1/3 mile). That said, there’s no way anyone can capture the entire water’s flow (possibly with drone). Determined to get the best shot possible, I ventured on to the cliff’s edge (see the upper left). Gosh, you can't see just how steep that cliff was in this photograph, but I couldn't look down; I was so scared! So, I inched myself to the edge on my bum, and even then I didn't feel comfortable; I could feel the rock beneath me tremor as the water hit the cliff below me. I captured a few photos there, but I felt they weren't indicative of what a visitor sees (plus, I felt they lacked interest…. even after all that effort, lol). This “behind the action” photograph however is the highlight of Seymour River Falls. Notice the bench on the other side of the falls (to the right of the mist). The trail that leads to it meanders through a lush, moss covered old growth forest. Although it’s an easy to walking to the bench can be dangerous (especially when it’s wet). The trail I took was similar however it was steep in places, and very dangerous in places too. That said, it’s not a place for young children or dogs. Seymour River Falls is located slightly north of the community of Seymour Arm; at the north end of Shuswap Lake, BC.

"Circle Of Life"

The saguaro cactus is an icon of the US southwest and can only be found in the Sonoran Desert (southern Arizona - northern Mexico). This slow growing cacti can take 10 years for it to reach 1 inch in height By the time a saguaro is 4 feet tall its roots have been growing for as many as 55 years (they’re only 6 inches below ground and stretch out only 4 feet). That said, wind storms will often topple the saguaro. Their waxy, pleated surface allows them to expand to contain all the water it needs; it can hold over a thousand gallons of water! You’ll notice on a few of my other photos that some saguaros appear to be fat; those images were taken after a rainfall. Only saguaro cactuses between the ages of 30 - 65, produce reproductive flowers (through pollination). These flowers can be spotted during the last two weeks of April through to the first week in June. The saguaro cactus doesn’t grow arms until it’s around 95 - 100 years old and have as many as 50+ arms! The average saguaro lives to be 150 - 175 years of age but some are known to reach 200 years of age. They can reach 50 feet in height and weigh as much as 6 tons. You wouldn’t want one falling on you! The structural foundation of the saguaro consists of 15-20 woody ribs, fused along the length of the stem and separated within the younger arms. These woody remains were used by the Native Americans to build roofs, walls and even furniture. Nowadays, you’ll see them transformed into masterful pieces of art.

"Winter's Beauty Rest"

"Winter's Beauty Rest" In -38F (-39C) weather, I ventured out in the comfort of my Jeep, on some snow drift covered prairie back roads in search of “cold” images. Not only was it cold but the wind was incredibly piercing too!   I was enjoying the sun filled day when this scene caught my eye. I loved how the highlight of the snow defined the branches; thankfully there weren't any leaves blocking the tree trunk and branches. Both my camera and my hands don’t work very well in those frigged temperatures, so I didn’t doddle!  I love how abstract photography makes you look more intriguingly and inquisitively at it an image. The "art" in abstract photography however is much more than capturing what I see; it's first in observing beyond a first glance and then composing it in an artistic manner.   Mother Nature produces some of the best abstract art!

"Joshua Tree National Park View"

Joshua Tree National Park is a vast protected area in southern California, near the community of Yucca Valley and not far from Palm Springs. This high elevation national park is characterized by it's rugged rock formations, Joshua trees and stark desert landscapes. Named for the region’s many. gnarly Joshua trees its uniqueness draws thousands of visitors each year. I took this photo because I loved how all three of Joshua's unique qualities were in one (well composed) shot. Fortunately the early morning light was perfect; I love the shadows!

"Midnight Lumination"

I arrived at Elk Island National Park, in central Alberta, just as darkness took over the landscape. I was hoping to hone in on some Milky Way photography, knowing that the lake and islands would provide some valued interest to the photo. With great anticipation and in the darkness of night, I set out with a my camera gear on my back, bear spray in hand and my puppy Arlo by my side. With the assistance of a headlamp, I walked to Astotin Lake and hiked along the northern lakeside trail. As I walked I noticed some strange noises that seemed to be following me and I could hear some bugling elk and howling coyotes in the distance (admittedly, it was a bit unnerving!). I told myself, “It’s just rabbits and birds, scouring about and the animals are so far away”..... I didn’t linger (lol). Unfortunately though, by the time I got to the spot where I knew the islands, lake and with the Milky Way would align, it had clouded over. All was not lost however because I did get this spectacular photo. In this photo, both the city lights of Edmonton and the blue of evening falling, were very faint but there was just enough light for a 30 second exposure. The addition of these two lovely young ladies (who just happened to be there) added a much needed focal point. I asked if they wouldn’t mind standing still for 30 seconds, and they enthusiastically agreed (I was thrilled, and thankful!). Back in my RV, I enjoyed a hot cup of tea and I reflected on my day. Happiness is truly in the accumulation of micro-moments and with that thought, I enthusiastically planned my next day!

"Mystic Woodland"

In order to grow, as a person, in our careers and in our passions we often have to force ourselves into challenging situations; our mindsets are key. That said, my “choices” guide me and why I took this photograph. Woodland photography is very popular, especially in the UK where open woodlands are (more) easy to find. Here in the northwestern US and Canada however, they’re harder to find so when I saw this tree I was excited by the potential I saw. I was on a narrow two lane road when I drove by this scene, so I had to make a quick decision, “Should I turn around?”. I was driving my RV so turning around meant a few 3-point turns to turns to do so, and although that was a bit of a challenge, I knew the real challenge would be to create the photo I envisioned from a raw file… which would force me to learn something new. The tree was as you see it here (it remains the same) however the background in the original was lit up with defused mid-day white lighting; perfect for the image I had envisioned. As mentioned in previous posts, my raw images all require post editing and it was here that the challenge lie; how to bring “mood” into the scene. I think I accomplished that. Challenges can be difficult but by choosing how we face them, we grow. A rewarding passion (and life), is in the accumulation of our choices.

"Horseshoe Bend"

Iconic landmarks such as Horseshoe Bend Arizona, are not always my favorite images to shoot but they’re a “must have” in any photographer’s portfolio or travel blog. The challenge then is to make my shot unique in some way. For example, I included the right and left ledge that I was standing on; this gives the image a sense of depth and distance. Horseshoe Bend is located on the north-eastern tip of Arizona; very near to the fast growing community of Page. The Colorado River was dammed in Page in 1966 and since then boating and house-boating have become a huge attraction. That said, due to its proximity to The Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon it has become a huge tourist hub. The first time I visited Horseshoe Bend (in 2014) there was just a small gravel parking lot with only a couple parked cars but now there’s a visitors center and a huge paved (and packed!!) parking lot. Gone are the days when I had the joy of being there virtually by myself. That said, when I took this photo I was so scared that someone would come up behind me and push me over the edge; a 1000 foot (300M) drop.... YIKES! If you decide to visit Page, you’ll likely need more than one day and I would suggest you book your tour for Antelope Canyon asap. The next time I visit the area, I’d like to kayaking through the boulders of Lake Powell :-) *Many of the houseboats on Lake Powell were manufactured in my old hometown of Sicamous BC, Canada.