Chasing Waterfalls

Although R&B group, TLC, advises us against chasing waterfalls (sorry, couldn't resist), a friend and I decided to do just that. For some time, I've wanted to see, and take photos of Mossbrae Falls. My friend, Thomas Barclay, and I decided to visit Mossbrae, Burney Falls, Potem Falls, the 3 McCloud Falls, and Boulder Creek Falls. Although I highly enjoyed all of the falls that we visited, I was most impressed by Mossbrae and Middle McCloud Falls. The locations were absolutely beautiful. The beauty of California never ceases to amaze. Of course, I believe that there is beauty can be found all around this planet. I just realize how fortunate we are as Californians.

Aside from the sheer beauty of Mossbrae, one of the more interesting parts of the experience was that it almost didn't happen. Thomas and I arrived in Dunsmuir, CA. quite early in the morning. The parking lot was practically empty. The falls can be found along tracks owned by the Union Pacific Railroad. Due to this fact, the path to Mossbrae is actually forbidden. It actually didn't even occur to either of us. Thomas and I were so busy looking at the lighting conditions, and making sure that we were paying attention to the path ahead (didn't want to trip while walking down the tracks), that we didn't even notice the very obvious "No Tresspassing" sign until it was pointed out by a railroad worker after we had returned to the parking lot. I wish I'd spent more time there, but at least we got our photos :). The location of thes falls has caused some conflict between the city of Dunsmuir and the Union Pacific Railroad, as several people have come quite close to getting nailed by the train (though I don't understand exactly how people didn't notice a train). This is a liability issue for the railroad, but the city of Dusmuir (and its hotels) continue to advertise the falls and how to get there. After we finished shooting, a railroad worker recalled seeing busloads full of children walking down the tracks, a wedding party of 400 people, and countless women in stilettos, and mothers pushing baby strollers. With this in mind, I can see how U.P.R. would worry, but it would be a shame if people were no longer able to visit these falls. I truly hope that the railroad company and Dunsmuir can come up with some kind of alternative solution.

The Rock: Alcatraz Island

It has been some time since I've visited Alcatraz. I haven't been very many times though. As a native of San Francisco, most people are surprised that I haven't visited repeatedly (in my defense, prison is usually the last among my thoughts. lol). Typically, my visits take place when I show visiting family & friends around San Francisco. I'd never actually taken any photos on the island. That fact kept the idea in my mind for several weeks. So when my friend Thomas Barclay suggested we go shoot on the island, I just laughed and agreed right away. Great timing. Its always interesting to shoot something new. New for me anyway. Visiting with my camera was like seeing it for the first time. Overall, it was a great day. I got to take several photos, hang out with a great friend, and eat at Blondie's Pizza!

San Francisco Pt. 1

Throughout the course of three days, I've found myself moving around all over the place. I got a chance to see Iron Man 2, which was quite entertaining (Yes, I'm a bit of a comic lover). I also went to a wide variety of locations across San Francisco and shot with many different photographers. Its always a pleasure to venture out with folks that are motivated by the same passions. People that you can learn from and share technique with. Photographers will not only tolerate, but spend endless periods of time waiting for the right light in a certain location (and actually enjoy it), and will do their absolute best to create their own luck with the same determination as you. I had a great time shooting with photographers, John Maruoka, Kristin Munday, Andrew Munday, Mike Duarte, Edward Chuck, Thomas Barclay, and Kevin Ash. I met some really warm and genuine people, saw someone get arrested, and spotted a police officer texting while driving! Overall, a very busy, yet extremely fun week. Here are a few recent images. More to follow!