Yosemite - One Year Ago

As photographers, we're always excited about the next scene we are about to capture. I'm certainly no exception. However, I do find it useful to slow down a bit, look back and review what has already been done.

Just over a year ago, I set out for Yosemite with my friend and fellow photographer, Minh Ly. I've photographed several locations in multiple countries, but this trip bears special meaning for me as it was my first real photo expedition. Our only purpose was to take photographs, and I learned a lot about planning ahead for these kind of trips. Minh & I followed local weather patterns weeks in advance, purchased extra batteries, filters, and winter gear in preparation for the trip. Each day, we left our hotel room in complete darkness. We took extra care to be in place at our desired location well before the dawn. Until then, I never realized how cold you can get just standing still in snow, despite my thermals, Gore-tex lined shoes, and multiple pairs of winter socks. It wasn't too bad though.

Its been some time since I had the opportunity to photograph Yosemite, but that trip marked a major step forward in my comprehension of light, patience, composition, and overall understanding of photography. If I had the chance to be there at this moment, I'd certainly do a few things differently. I scrutinize my work a lot more now. At the same time, I can appreciate it for what it was, and the lessons I can take with me. Below, are a two images that have been recently re-edited.

Part 3 - Photos from the Eastern Sierras (Bodie Ghost Town)

Following our shoot at Dunderburg Meadow, Phil Richardson, and I decided to drive over to Bodie Ghost Town. Although we shot for roughly two hours, we still missed out on seeing a decent part of the town. Our time was somewhat limited since we had to try and make it back over Tioga Pass before the coming storm. I truly hope to return to this area in the near future.

Eastern Sierras - Part 2 (Conway Summit)

During our shoot at Mono Lake, some of the photographers informed us that we could get some great shots of the fall color at Conway Summit along Highway 395 near Lee Vining and Mono Lake. Phil and I decided to get to the summit in time to catch the sunrise. The color was truly spectacular! I've never been surrounded by such richly colored trees before. The aspens were gorgeous. The color was greatly enhanced by the deep blue sky and my circular polarizer.

Throughout the day, both Phil and I found ourselves exploring many different paths in order to get the shots we wanted. At one point, I think we ventured out in seperate directions for about two hours or so. Eventually, we met up again and decided to grab some lunch. Although we were both hungry, neither one of us were ready to leave until each of us were happy with the shots. Afterall, these colors only come once a year in the region.

Once we wrapped up our shoot at Conway Summit, another photographer pointed us in the direction of Dunderburg Meadow. Ordinarily, I get a bit grumpy (just a tad, lol) after not having eaten in a while, but the day was going so well, we completely forgot how hungry we were. Funny how a good time and interesting shots will do that. By the time we got something to eat, we were both able to smile and be grateful that the first two phases of our trip went off so well.

Eastern Sierras - Part 1 (Mono Lake)

First off, I'd like to extend my thanks to Phil Richardson, of Phil Richardson Photography. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of photographing some great scenes in the Easter Sierras of California at Phil's invitation. He has made an annual trip of it and was kind enough to invite me along.

I've been to the Eastern Sierras before, but not in the role of photographer. Its always a great experience seeing things with different eyes. In addition, I've never witnessed the region when all of the beautiful fall colors have set in. There is a relatively small window each year when such vibrant color is so apparent.

Our first stop was Mono Lake. We made it over the Tioga Pass with plenty of time to scout and take photos past the setting of the sun. It came as no surprise to see that the greater majority of people at Mono Lake were photographers. Everyone was so courteous. We all got our shots and made room for each other, or exchanged vantage points once we had finished. It was all just a great experience and the start of a fun adventure.