tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13949596863166203822012-02-07T16:32:00.946-07:00<a href="http://www.quietwestphoto.com"><b>Kevin Alexander - Photographer</b></a><p> <a href="http://www.quietwestphoto.com">Quiet West Photography - Weddings</a><br> <a href="http://www.quietwestphotography.com">Quiet West Photography - Nature</a><p> <a href="http://mysteryroad.blogs.com/kevin_novice_cook_2011/">My 2011 Cooking Photo Blog</a><p> Click on <b>ANY photo</b> to view it <b>LARGER!</b></p></p></p>Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.comBlogger1761100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-64040565839065165752011-01-22T23:00:00.003-07:002011-01-22T23:02:52.528-07:00

In 2011, I am changing the theme of my blog to be about my adventures in cooking - with pictures of my cooking efforts.Please visit Kevin's 2011 Cooking Adventures (click on the link!)

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-4526943841159744872011-01-01T17:41:00.004-07:002011-01-01T17:44:09.538-07:00

When we aren't watching sometimes Maddie jumps up and plays with the Christmas tree and the creche scene. Caught her in the act!

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-24639112922068242452010-12-21T20:27:00.004-07:002010-12-21T20:32:01.325-07:00

Went out to the backyard for a few photos. In the top photo you can plainly see that the edge of earth's shadow is curved just like you'd expect! At full eclipse, the moon glows like a red bubble in the sky.Nikon D300 with 200mm and 400mm lenses, using a tripod.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-43371257657937481872010-12-18T21:25:00.003-07:002010-12-18T21:27:28.326-07:00

A winter walk at nearby Sawhill Ponds gave us some quiet observation and a good self portrait.Nikon D300.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-57850719111087127442010-12-16T19:49:00.002-07:002010-12-16T19:50:21.046-07:00

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-75870405878133267642010-12-14T02:10:00.005-07:002010-12-14T02:15:54.497-07:00

Today, I baked my first ever apple pie.I like eating apple pie, but it is usually too sweet.So I tried to make a nice tart apple pie. It came out well!The most tedious part was cutting and peeling the apples. I used a packaged crust.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-56305709061302473482010-12-01T00:49:00.078-07:002010-12-14T01:58:23.829-07:00

Sally and I wanted to try an ambitious road trip this Thanksgiving and see some new territory. This will be the longest post of the year by far - it was the longest road trip of the year!So after some carefully checking of weather forecasts, we left Thursday night, November 18th - destination - somewhere in California! We wanted to see some sequoias or redwoods, maybe the seacoast or some desert

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-8087198168714128712010-11-10T21:35:00.002-07:002010-11-10T21:38:18.836-07:00

Neighbor's cat visits again. Then, I brought our cat Maddie to the door to say hi and she hissed at him ...Panasonic LX3

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-54744646525296981532010-11-01T23:22:00.003-06:002010-11-01T23:26:22.426-06:00

A visit to nearby St. Vrain State Park produced 2 photos of signs of fall. It is still warm most days.Nikon D700, 400mm lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-60779132352208495262010-10-28T22:41:00.005-06:002010-10-28T22:57:56.902-06:00

On a quick trip to Longmont, we spotted 2 incredible classic cars. A beautiful white 1960s MG Midget and a 1957 Chevy that had a deep rumbling exhaust. Wow!Panasonic LX3

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-10707296863723150732010-10-28T22:32:00.003-06:002010-10-28T22:58:40.787-06:00

Returned to the spot where I saw pigs on October 12th to get a better photo.They were having a nice nap in the lettuce rows.Nikon D700 with 80-400mm lens. 1/1000 sec f5.6 ISO 1000

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-16963027336740689632010-10-21T20:31:00.002-06:002010-10-21T20:39:50.540-06:00

Today a squirrel spent a long time on our backyard fence scolding a cat. Since the squirrel wasn't paying much attention to me I was able to get pretty close and get many photos with a long lens with the camera on a tripod. Got my best ever squirrel pictures.Nikon D700 with 300mm f2.8 lens on tripod. 1/1250 sec at f3.2 with ISO 500.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-1963948399860956742010-10-17T21:49:00.006-06:002010-10-17T21:53:27.294-06:00

Brought the car to Boulder for tires and saw large pigs eating in a farmers field. The farmer's staff was watching them so it was approved behavior. And a closeup of raindrops when I walked by a used car lot.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-21041593252154368652010-10-17T21:34:00.006-06:002010-10-17T21:46:56.238-06:00

While I was waiting for our car to be serviced, I walked up Longmont's main street. The Golden West Flour Mill, built 1916 - abandoned 1979 was being slowly demolished by a crane with a wrecking ball. Pretty sad.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-45560326938781765102010-10-17T21:32:00.003-06:002010-10-17T21:34:45.539-06:00

A block or so from home I walked by this interesting BMW motorcycle and sidecar.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-53133176274445570282010-10-17T21:25:00.003-06:002010-10-17T21:31:53.349-06:00

Interesting to see how similar these two images look, despite being made with completely different cameras (and cats). I did not study the 2002 image before doing my 2010 photo session with Maddie. The cat in the 2002 picture is Felix.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-35021830958640030072010-10-17T20:30:00.016-06:002010-10-17T21:25:18.399-06:00

This past weekend was to be the last for good mountain foliage colors. We drove to the Vail area and then took the Highway 24 exit off I-70. We drove through Minturn and headed for Leadville where we spent the night at the historic Delaware Hotel.North of Minturn, the structures of the abandoned Eagle Mine gleamed in the afternoon sun. This mine produced large amounts of gold, lead, and zinc

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-62501872170218320152010-10-17T20:27:00.003-06:002010-10-17T21:32:10.056-06:00

On our normal walking route in Erie, we pass this interesting and puzzling scene.Panasonic LX3.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-44784526451889976122010-10-17T20:26:00.002-06:002010-10-17T20:27:54.677-06:00

Sally's hand stroking Maddie's fur.Nikon D300.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-74316222086459211272010-09-25T00:04:00.003-06:002010-10-17T20:25:49.231-06:00

I had never seen this cat before. So naturally I slowly pursued it for a photo. At one point it lay down and looked past me at a barking dog - so I got a good sharp photo of it.Nikon D300 with 100mm f2.8 Series E manual focus lens at f4, 1/400 sec. ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-11869412832467469662010-09-24T23:59:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:04:22.763-06:00

Looks some new baby grasshoppers will be incubating soon!This amorous couple was on some okra stalks next door. In the cool of the evening they remained still enough for many 1 second exposures!Nikon D700 with 105mm manual focus micro lens at f11, 1 sec. ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-35037483728306274332010-09-19T22:25:00.004-06:002010-09-19T22:31:17.242-06:00

Saturday had nice soft light - made by overcast skies. On the shoulder of an Erie country road, I made 2 very different photos from the same tripod position - just turned 90 degrees.Very interesting hay bale shapes lurking in the tall grass, then Sally striking a cute pose.Nikon D700 with 80-200mm f4.5 manual focus lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-87653144159944100752010-09-19T22:22:00.003-06:002010-09-19T22:25:47.605-06:00

Had trouble sleeping so I looked out the window and saw that my solar-powered walkway light was making an interesting pattern. So at 2AM wearing my blue and white striped boxers, I crept outside with a tripod and the Panasonic LX3 to make a few pictures.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-65833680573140981212010-09-14T21:57:00.003-06:002010-09-14T21:59:39.593-06:00

On tonight's walk, a cat and kitten watched us as we passed by their home.Panasonic LX3.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-50329366594750662142010-09-14T21:54:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:09:57.282-06:00

On a walk at nightfall, I spotted these yellow flowers overhanging the sidewalk.Panasonic LX3.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-85878674930499990522010-09-09T08:47:00.004-06:002010-09-09T08:56:20.028-06:00

Late afternoon in Erie and a rainbow appears. So naturally I try to compose this familar scene with a rainbow again. I still am not happy with the shot. To see the others, click the rainbow tag.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-40172980635205993142010-09-09T08:45:00.007-06:002010-09-25T00:20:20.453-06:00

Datura flowers are closed during the day and open at dusk. Bees were eagerly buzzing about this huge clump of them in a neighbor's garden at 7PM.Huge dramatic flowers, strong fragrance, lush green foliage make for a spectacular plant. One must be cautious around this reportedly easy to grow plant/weed. Daturas are extremely toxic to humans and animals.Panasonic LX3.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-89449455357968715772010-09-07T02:34:00.007-06:002010-09-07T02:49:45.625-06:00

Today at late morning we noticed the sunlight outside looked unusually yellow. So we went outside to find out why - a big wildfire was burning in the the Boulder foothills. By late afternoon it had grown dramatically due to high winds... forcing over 1000 families to flee their homes. This photo made at 6PM.At 10 PM the fire looked like this from Erie, about 18 miles from the flames. I hope the

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-16267269326298985352010-09-07T02:07:00.013-06:002010-09-07T02:33:55.902-06:00

I walked to West Concord where I waited for a commuter rail train to arrive at 6AM.The train looks basically the same as when I last rode it about 30 years ago.From the commuter rail station I took a subway to the airport.As the airplane approached Denver, I got a good view of Kiowa Creek and I-70. The town of Bennett is visible top left.From the airport, I took a bus to Boulder. I had a little

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-86671856704275230442010-08-28T20:23:00.010-06:002010-09-25T00:13:16.586-06:00

You can make REALLY high quality flower photos with a little point and shoot camera if you are careful. This is a small bloom on a big pot of chrysanthemums.For this photo I used my tiny Panasonic Lumix point and shoot camera (see it here) - with the same care that as if I was using a big professional camera.I did the following:1. Waited until the flower was in full shade2. Used a tripod to hold

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-57543708059577498212010-08-28T20:19:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:08:34.601-06:00

More photos of Max. Definitely has more energy now.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-69851582504531438602010-08-28T20:13:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:08:55.711-06:00

I've been in Massachusetts for awhile visiting my parents and sister.My sister just adopted this homeless cat which has been named Max.Sleeping on a windowsill, he was very thin but now with regular meals and care he is feeling better.Nikon D700 with 105mm manual focus lens, bounce flash.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-41147820398627485282010-08-11T22:34:00.005-06:002010-09-25T00:09:37.280-06:00

Sunflowers near a sidewalk. Panasonic LX3.Bird in the bridge. Nikon D300 with 50-135mm manual focus lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-8645027557407024222010-08-10T22:33:00.005-06:002010-09-25T00:10:18.709-06:00

This neighbor had beautiful yellow flowers near the sidewalk.I stayed on the sidewalk and carefully composed a few handheld shots in the shaded areas.Nikon D300 with 135mm manual focus lens.This cosmos was in a more accessible area - so I brought my tripod and made a nice sharp image.Nikon D300 with 80-200mm manual focus lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-48474613793548714342010-08-10T22:11:00.007-06:002010-08-10T22:50:20.990-06:00

After today's heavy rain, a dragonfly rested on some leaves in our backyard. I spent many minutes carefully photographing it.I was very pleased with some shots. I'm going to make it in a large print that may look like this, minus the watermark. Right now I'm calling it my best nature photo of 2010.Nikon D300 with 105mm micro lens at f11 ISO 200. SB800 flash with a diffuser provided the light.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-87116626212844465582010-08-10T22:08:00.003-06:002010-08-10T22:11:22.260-06:00

Vietnamese Pho soup with shrimp.Panasonic Lumix LX3

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-18160747653974105572010-08-07T22:35:00.010-06:002010-08-07T22:44:05.799-06:00

Today, Sally and I went to the Boulder County Fair. Here are my best pictures.All with Nikon D700. Most with 50-135mm Tokina lens shot with camera on DX. The rabbit is with 50mm f1.8 at f2.8 shot on FX.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-56671158346374324652010-08-07T22:31:00.002-06:002010-08-07T22:35:32.736-06:00

I was testing an old worn 55mm Nikon manual focus micro lens.Yup, it is a sharp lens - it's probably over 30 years old.Click on the photo to see how detailed and crisp the image is.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-37791783677440859972010-08-04T22:09:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:10:37.449-06:00

I returned to yesterday's location to try more photos in the morning with a better camera.Then did several hours of scouting to find some better fields of sunflowers. Let's see if I can make some really good images tomorrow!Nikon D700 with105mm f2.5 manual focus lens (top), with 35mm Zeiss lens (bottom).

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-78867485927285322282010-08-03T23:46:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:10:57.462-06:00

Some very nice scenes just north of Erie today.We drive by the irrigator all the time, the late day light was nice. Same for the field of sunflowers about 5 minutes from there.Panasonic LX3 pocket camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-12084111912575919082010-08-02T22:33:00.003-06:002010-08-02T22:36:07.393-06:00

The ingredients for tonight's dinner for Kevin. The zucchini, swiss chard, and cucumbers are from Kevin's garden. The lime and avocado are from the store.Nikon D700 with 35mm f2 Zeiss lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-29860101858122344312010-07-30T23:14:00.005-06:002010-09-25T00:15:45.973-06:00

A beautiful cat sitting on the sidewalk near its home. Amazingly, it was friendly enough to let me approach closely.Sally playing on a swing at a playground.The best of today's brief walk around downtown Erie.Nikon D700 with 105mm manual focus lens at 1/1000 sec. f4 ISO 500.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-7604668119197228032010-07-27T12:54:00.002-06:002010-07-27T13:00:47.876-06:00

This little grasshopper found itself stuck in a spider web. Just as the spider charged forth to capture it, it wriggled free and escaped !Nikon D300 with 105mmf4 micro lens on PN11 tube. Handheld with daylight only (no flash). About half life size magnification. 1/250 sec. f8 at ISO 200

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-61330171189674664282010-07-26T22:24:00.034-06:002010-07-28T13:37:09.874-06:00

Even a mini roadtrip over a regular 2 day weekend can be fun. Very important to drive most of the way on Friday night! We wanted to escape the heat and hopefully the crowds.Grand Mesa in western Colorado is about as far as I want to drive on an ambitious 2 day weekend. Our destination, Cedar's Edge Llama's Bed & Breakfast in Cedaredge is about 300 miles away.On Friday night, we drove west on I-

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-23983037393392426602010-07-22T22:29:00.004-06:002010-09-09T08:54:42.856-06:00

This should look familiar. I posted another similar photo on this blog on July 11th.Today's is a bit better - but still doesn't live up to its potential. This rainbow was extremely bright and intense about 10 minutes earlier - when I was trying to make a good photo at another location - just couldn't get the right composition with a GREAT rainbow.Lesson is to just keep trying. Go to the best

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-38190668147419496152010-07-21T21:57:00.003-06:002010-07-21T22:04:39.684-06:00

Spotted this little guy on a blue trash can.Panasonic LX3 compact camera on macro setting.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-45827286650332442002010-07-21T21:36:00.009-06:002010-07-27T13:42:49.899-06:00

First pictures with a new camera - Panasonic LX3.My Canon G3 compact has helped me make lots of great pictures since 2002. A little chunky camera. Really good quality for its time. Won't fit in a pocket, but fits OK in a big belt pouch.2002 is very old in digital camera terms! The Canon G-series is now up to model G11! So I've been doing some research to find a modestly priced high quality

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-72530749956346216362010-07-21T21:32:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:11:26.211-06:00

A ladybug eats. A spider stalks...Canon G3 point and shoot camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-38292173669701046342010-07-15T02:09:00.009-06:002010-07-21T22:03:16.298-06:00

In nearby Longmont, Golden Ponds is a city-managed wildlife and fishing area. Nice walking trails and benches discreetly placed in a beautiful setting.There are many trees and aquatic weeds so it feels very natural despite its man-made origins (former gravel pits) and heavy use by dog walkers and bicyclists. A train track and subdivision are a few yards away.Lots of water birds - I saw ducks,

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-29768353263715226392010-07-15T01:47:00.012-06:002010-08-29T11:52:51.087-06:00

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge has been managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service for many years. Terribly polluted from its days as a chemical manufacturing site, it has been undergoing Superfund cleanup efforts for 20 plus years. Only in recent years has the public been able to access [a limited area] of the property, which is the largest undeveloped tract of land in metro

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-13419806194499347362010-07-15T01:40:00.007-06:002010-09-25T00:11:49.218-06:00

Took 3 outstanding and different photos today. The only one that was planned was the rose.A neighbor's cat that frequently visits our backyard via a hole in the fence.Taken with 105mm micro lens.Chased this rainbow and took various compositions with a local church. Didn't get to the spot when the rainbow was brightest - about 2 minutes too late. Still looks interesting.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-25589518653577416852010-07-15T01:31:00.005-06:002010-07-15T01:39:03.208-06:00

While Sally was away on a trip, I decided to take my little folding rowboat for its first outing in 5 years.It worked fine, but since it is SMALL (8 feet long), it really is spooky when the wind kicks up or big powerboats speed nearby.I got quite a workout with 2.5 hours of rowing. No fish were encountered.I thought that surely fish would be lurking in water near these trees. Just cormorants -

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-81855801530200811582010-07-15T01:00:00.031-06:002010-09-07T02:57:34.490-06:00

We stayed one night in a "rustic" cabin at remote Trappers Lake in White River National Forest in northwest Colorado. Two nights in "modern" motels. Along the way we saw many interesting sights.Sheep...A beautiful valley on a LONG winding dirt road.Trappers Lake. It has been a classic remote Colorado destination since the early 1900s. The land near the lake has been protected from development

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-61147820044180539002010-06-30T10:57:00.000-06:002010-06-30T10:57:04.102-06:00

In late June, many cottonwood trees are in bloom. The "cotton" is carried by the wind easily.Nikon D700 with 70-300mm lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-74931379185227417352010-06-30T10:48:00.004-06:002010-06-30T10:52:06.955-06:00

This beautifully restored Chevy caught my eye in a parking lot.The other cars were bland and boring by comparison.Canon G3 camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-79855389351515793242010-06-24T22:37:00.006-06:002010-06-24T22:45:10.555-06:00

A nice picture of Sally snapped on the street.Nikon D700 with 105mm manual focus lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-17415806402560620482010-06-24T22:16:00.010-06:002010-06-24T22:44:08.409-06:00

Peter enjoyed using his Leica.Handwashing is a ceremony!Sally had a leg of lamb.I had a fish dish.An elegant belly dancer provided entertainment.This after dinner cocktail was very powerful!Hasan, our waiter demonstrates how to serve mint tea with style.Photos with Nikon D700 with 24-70mm lens, bounce flash.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-49525793124156717122010-06-09T23:34:00.006-06:002010-08-30T20:52:46.031-06:00

New hardwood floor in the living room. Note the pattern made by the darker wood.Nikon D700 with 24-70mm lens. Bounce flash.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-15206136084744061702010-06-07T12:22:00.005-06:002010-06-07T12:26:58.864-06:00

A party to celebrate my in-laws new American citizenship. The 12 year wait is over!Congratulations to Peter and June!Nikon D700 with 24-70mm lens. Standing portrait with 70-300mm lens at 125mm.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-59832258724533909072010-06-05T23:11:00.009-06:002010-09-25T00:14:28.328-06:00

Click any photo to view it larger.Maddie tests the new hardwood floor. A pretty green hayfield in Longmont. Both with Nikon D300 and 35mm manual focus Zeiss lens at f8.A yellow columbine in Sally's garden. Nikon D700 with 55mm f3.5 manual focus Micro Nikkor lens at f8. My oldest lens. Based on the serial number, it was probably made in 1968!

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-79448319024470101882010-06-05T23:09:00.000-06:002010-06-05T23:11:41.350-06:00

In funky old town Erie, you never know what you'll see. In 15 years, this is the first time I've seen horse riders on the sidewalk... making a cell phone call!Canon G3 pocket camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-38044528852589505402010-06-05T23:06:00.004-06:002010-10-21T20:43:58.151-06:00

Maddie our Siamese cat has a sweet face (and such a loud voice). We love her.Nikon D700 with 105mm manual focus lens at f5.6

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-12951180686514543342010-06-05T23:03:00.001-06:002010-06-05T23:06:13.719-06:00

Late May brings powerful spring thunderstorms to the Colorado Plains. This view is from a country road in Longmont.Nikon D300 with 35mm manual focus Zeiss lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-59205691351335220962010-06-05T22:58:00.007-06:002010-08-30T20:51:53.647-06:00

Barry, a local artist, also does roofing and flooring work. He discusses plans for our new hardwood floor with Sally. You can read more about Barry and his art here.Nikon D700 with 24-85mm lens. Bounce flash. 1/250 sec. f9 at ISO 800

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-86600785237189693372010-06-05T22:54:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:15:19.347-06:00

Our lilac bush is flowering beautifully. The most blooms it's had in 15 years.I cut some and put them in our newly renovated bathroom.Canon G3 pocket camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-86512701171482625562010-06-05T22:51:00.001-06:002010-06-05T22:54:05.130-06:00

This new church has a working oil rig next to it. A major oil field is below the towns of Frederick and Firestone, about 10 miles from Erie.Stitched image from Canon G3 pocket camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-89648056714346953502010-06-05T22:48:00.003-06:002010-06-05T22:50:40.613-06:00

At Erie's annual street fair, there are always interesting dogs to see.Nikon D300 with 24-85mm lens.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-6521995976614697852010-06-05T22:44:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:16:08.615-06:00

Tulips in our backyard - 2nd week of May - right on schedule!Nikon D300 with 70-300mm lens at 300mm. 1/400 sec. f7.1 ISO 800

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-90687056087662185242010-05-10T17:08:00.011-06:002010-05-21T21:38:05.312-06:00

The new bathroom fixtures and tile look really nice.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-48330327983723707202010-05-10T17:06:00.004-06:002010-05-10T17:08:50.440-06:00

Before and after photos of our long-planned bathroom remodel. Big change!

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-2945097799200484082010-04-27T23:12:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:16:29.539-06:00

To make good flower photos you must have soft light - no direct sun. Just after sunset is a good time - or choose a flower bed that gets full shade at a certain time of day. You'll want a tripod. Our front flower bed is in full shade every day after 3PM. Tulips emerging from catnip.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro lens at 1 second f16 ISO 200, tripod.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-13447108519468349112010-04-27T23:08:00.002-06:002010-04-27T23:12:14.169-06:00

Long exposure photos of moving water can be very striking.Wait until daylight is almost gone - you want to be able to use slow shutter speeds at least 1/4 sec or slower. Nikon D300 with 55mm micro lens. 8 seconds at f16 ISO 200.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-77816819242379141342010-04-27T23:05:00.002-06:002010-04-27T23:08:26.113-06:00

We saw this beautiful old Toyota pickup in the Home Depot parking lot.Never seen one like this before. Great turquoise color - chassis looks like an old Land Cruiser.Canon S3 point and shoot camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-34277732361407075512010-04-21T22:48:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:16:55.045-06:00

I like dandelions. I think they are pretty flowers even if they are regarded as pesky weeds. Such a pure yellow complementing the green grass.Nikon D300 with 105mm f4 micro lens. 1/500s f5.6 ISO 200

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-81003295622545408162010-04-20T22:41:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:17:19.782-06:00

Outside the Erie town hall is a large bed of tulips. Here's a nice one.Nikon D300 with 80-200mm f4 lens at minimum focus distance (about 3 feet). Around 150mm at 1/200s f11 at ISO 400. Used a tripod - essential for this kind of photo because precise focusing is challenging even with Live View.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-91667329584479802922010-04-20T22:38:00.003-06:002010-09-25T00:17:40.883-06:00

The numerous apple trees in downtown Erie are blooming.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro lens at 1/500s f8 ISo 200.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-78670533168042948012010-04-20T22:26:00.004-06:002010-09-25T00:18:00.899-06:00

A neighbor's cat made a sleeping nest next to our house in a sunny corner. Great for late afternoon naps!Nikon D300 with 70-300mm lens at 135mm 1/400s f6.3 ISO 640.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-31798465837167157412010-04-20T22:22:00.001-06:002010-04-20T22:26:37.507-06:00

Normally very shy and hard to approach, the light steady rain must have made this red-tailed hawk reluctant to fly. When we first saw it it was perched on a sign about 10 feet from a stopped car with the driver taking pics of it. Here it sat for a minute on a telephone pole for us.Nikon D300 with 70-300mm lens at 300mm 1/800s f6.3 at ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-18518120797985008782010-04-15T22:16:00.003-06:002010-04-15T22:19:18.772-06:00

I didn't even notice this insect until I reviewed my photos later.The daffodil photo wasn't interesting except for this little guy clinging to a petal.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro lens. 1/160s f5.6 ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-61602495224943447262010-04-15T22:12:00.004-06:002010-04-15T22:15:58.716-06:00

This handsome Harley motorcycle was gleaming in the late day sun when we parked behind it.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro lens. 1/640s f5.6 ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-75771055586383790402010-04-15T21:57:00.006-06:002010-09-25T00:18:21.669-06:00

I like these daffodil photos better than those I did yesterday. See what you think.For these I brought my flash and softbox outside to the flower bed. Even though it was breezy, the flash stopped all motion and made nice crisp pictures. I don't mind the background going dark - it lets the flower be the star of the show!Nikon D300 with 80-200mm f4 manual focus lens for the first photo. Same lens

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-39420247464277109532010-04-12T12:26:00.005-06:002010-09-25T00:18:39.493-06:00

Spring is happening. Crocuses are about over and the daffodils are now blooming in our front flower bed.Nikon D300 with 105mm f4 micro at f16.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-43892447151665386982010-04-11T12:07:00.003-06:002010-04-12T13:03:55.189-06:00

Sally doing a closeup photo on our usual walking route downtown.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-30130983263874850302010-04-11T12:06:00.003-06:002010-04-12T13:03:08.439-06:00

A dog we spotted on a local walk - came out to guard his turf.Nikon D300 with 105mm f2.5 manual focus lens. 1/1000s f4 ISO 640.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-88635814281034666622010-04-11T12:05:00.007-06:002010-09-25T00:19:01.906-06:00

Crocus closeup - note the bright orange pollen that was dropped on the edge of a blossom by a busy bee.Nikon D300 with 80-200mm f4 manual focus zoom plus 5T closeup diopter. Multiple images were stacked or more depth of field.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-2870514379492874712010-04-11T12:05:00.005-06:002010-04-12T12:53:12.361-06:00

A matzo cracker looks interesting at 1X magnification.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-73473556723620597182010-04-11T12:04:00.008-06:002010-04-12T13:05:18.831-06:00

Click to view larger.As you drive north from Fort Collins towards Cheyenne (only 40 miles), the landscapes are definitely horizontal.These photo were both made by assembling multiple images into wide angle panoramas. Canon G3 point and shoot camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-69130407014044565882010-04-11T12:04:00.006-06:002010-04-12T12:45:55.909-06:00

My new part time job is selling items on ebay at a pawn shop. This saloon is next door.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-11572332088237138942010-04-11T12:02:00.005-06:002010-04-12T13:07:03.866-06:00

Here's a nice view of what the crocuses look like in our front flower bed.Nikon D300 with 55mm micro.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-57997505354457465952010-04-11T12:02:00.004-06:002010-04-12T12:44:16.303-06:00

At Barr Lake State Park, lots of bees were swarming around a bird feeder. Chased the birds away.Nikon D300 with 300mm lens - didn't want to get too close!

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-28536385865285633212010-04-11T12:01:00.003-06:002010-04-12T12:42:47.387-06:00

One of the best photos I took at a wedding today.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-14293378797554447552010-04-11T12:00:00.006-06:002010-04-12T12:41:59.219-06:00

Maddy our wonderful cat likes to sleep in a basket several hours a day. She has beautiful eyes if you can convince her to open them.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-54634802367559077282010-04-11T12:00:00.005-06:002010-04-12T12:40:11.893-06:00

After the snowstorm. I expect this will melt really fast.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-8534346608188584492010-04-11T11:58:00.004-06:002010-04-12T12:39:31.458-06:00

Uh oh. Not spring yet. A forecast for a sudden intense snowstorm was true! This view is off our front porch.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-29292985922897732012010-04-11T11:00:00.000-06:002010-04-12T12:36:35.378-06:00

The first real sign of spring to me is spotting the crocuses poking through the leaves in our flower bed.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-78781156445234521362010-04-11T10:30:00.000-06:002010-04-12T12:37:38.050-06:00

When we were out at Barr Lake State Park, a nature photographer walked by with a really big lens. Just the right sort of thing for birds! It is a 600mm f4.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-29365685037500718672010-03-20T22:53:00.002-06:002010-03-20T22:55:46.425-06:00

Workmen climb a cell phone tower next to an old barn.Canon G3 point and shoot digital camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-54379523011281194232010-03-19T23:46:00.005-06:002010-03-19T23:54:04.986-06:00

Click photo to view larger.In Colorado, the weather can change from spring back to winter very quickly. I carefully set this up so the camera was in the same place for both photos.Canon G3 point and shoot digital camera.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-15992297388075532062010-03-19T23:42:00.004-06:002010-03-19T23:52:09.599-06:00

Our neighbors' house in the pink light of sunrise.Nikon D300 with 35mm f1.8 lens at f4 1/125s ISO 400.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1394959686316620382.post-12204226588406225582010-03-19T23:39:00.004-06:002010-03-19T23:42:46.317-06:00

Farm in Longmont. Near sunset and the air is hazy from smoke created by farmers' burning fields.Nikon D300 with Nikon 70-300mm lens at 220mm. F6.3 1/1600 sec ISO 250. Carefully worked on in Photoshop to bring out details.

Kevinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13345677350634741800noreply@blogger.com0