tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72218852649818971132024-03-05T05:05:05.912-06:00Mark Chitwood PhotographyMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.comBlogger500125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-73669920074750427792014-12-29T19:11:00.000-06:002014-12-29T19:11:00.848-06:00Christmas Wonder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbHzPBjcC5a0XNBnJovKDSO8XXGhc6XJfZM_Y8JdbV4LeqL8c1_AFZUtexQXSsIn_u3iRjhiABZ-SayPMWd9XNhentgL4e3hoymIfzxwQS7cfklf8KhfnJ7GBoz9GqX02bb5nlxiuGdR4/s1600/2014+christmas1_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbHzPBjcC5a0XNBnJovKDSO8XXGhc6XJfZM_Y8JdbV4LeqL8c1_AFZUtexQXSsIn_u3iRjhiABZ-SayPMWd9XNhentgL4e3hoymIfzxwQS7cfklf8KhfnJ7GBoz9GqX02bb5nlxiuGdR4/s1600/2014+christmas1_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Christmas is way better with a three year old. This is my granddaughter - she was kind enough to pose for me this Christmas.<br />
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I posted this picture on Facebook and have had a lot of folks ask about it. So here is the specs on it.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 50 1.4<br />
Shutter speed was at 1/25<br />
ISO 400<br />
Auto White Balance.<br />
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This is a pretty simple shoot if you know what you have - you need a fast lens that will allow you to shoot inside with available light. Ask you subject hold still by telling her that Santa is coming to town.<br />
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I do love my 50mm 1.4. Saving some cash for 24 and 85 1.4.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-9393237297879894482014-12-20T10:12:00.001-06:002014-12-20T10:12:41.687-06:00Christmas Lights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWz9Fs40mIR-Uu4SN49LhnXavmslMjvGzs1ZolfEMfkp7sc9dDP7ZjYx8HMwmW7SevW7B0tpo7ixHyep7DirwacWgcXSg9LZtx6FXwLt3lyCZU3iWVNPE7as6ZY2ZCdHJlyV4W5JFNbxc/s1600/2014+christmas+lights_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWz9Fs40mIR-Uu4SN49LhnXavmslMjvGzs1ZolfEMfkp7sc9dDP7ZjYx8HMwmW7SevW7B0tpo7ixHyep7DirwacWgcXSg9LZtx6FXwLt3lyCZU3iWVNPE7as6ZY2ZCdHJlyV4W5JFNbxc/s1600/2014+christmas+lights_copy.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
Shooting Christmas lights can be fun and after a while - kind of boring. So I decided instead of the typical Christmas light shot done with a tripod and long exposure...that I would just play.<br />
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Taking my d90 and an 18-70 I tried all kinds of different shots. I pretty much settled on an exposure of 1 second. That seemed to work best for me.<br />
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I drove around until I found a yard that was decorated with very colorful lights. This shot was of a small tree and some very colorful lights.<br />
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Go out and have fun. Merry Christmas.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-40732332014760114292014-09-29T20:38:00.001-05:002014-09-29T20:38:25.640-05:00Sandhill Crane Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-adBH3A3lKekWwBQpjlqeMCjnjEa1qsQ4M8GPqC2ChzFRCRpQzPbUmy5ZccjS9cL9WBFzY1ligfun6owv0GxzqkxcXagRaphPyl4AjR8qq8jNnRsv-8tVEMedNQcUuRGs0kIM11yE_nx/s1600/2014+sandhill+crane+family_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-adBH3A3lKekWwBQpjlqeMCjnjEa1qsQ4M8GPqC2ChzFRCRpQzPbUmy5ZccjS9cL9WBFzY1ligfun6owv0GxzqkxcXagRaphPyl4AjR8qq8jNnRsv-8tVEMedNQcUuRGs0kIM11yE_nx/s1600/2014+sandhill+crane+family_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Last time I saw this family was in April. Mom and Dad where on the nest and Junior was waiting to be born. Now Junior his about ready to head south.<br />
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This family was in a field not very far from their nesting sight. As you can see I was able to get close to them. I just walked slowly toward them. No sudden movement.<br />
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It was a ton of fun. Hope to see these guys in April on the Platte River!<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 300 f4<br />
Nikon TC 1.4Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-4525125168121649812014-09-15T20:14:00.000-05:002014-09-15T20:14:15.700-05:00Sunset on the Prairie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8ojc6v_g2LnHJygTzl4sN5ToOsmC7v5Fr8aoIbbRgSVpMiT5xtMJjP-89HuMNBomfUJYMiJCK953YbZTxaVoHMzRXJ2KoHEHTV97uOCJ9NXAdA8FREJL63RSjV0E5mNdz7ycm7JyP97d/s1600/2014+sunset+stuff2_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8ojc6v_g2LnHJygTzl4sN5ToOsmC7v5Fr8aoIbbRgSVpMiT5xtMJjP-89HuMNBomfUJYMiJCK953YbZTxaVoHMzRXJ2KoHEHTV97uOCJ9NXAdA8FREJL63RSjV0E5mNdz7ycm7JyP97d/s1600/2014+sunset+stuff2_copy.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
So this happened tonight. Simple shot. Light was awesome - so just find something to shoot.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 70-200 afs 2.8Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-53506036743533366672014-09-04T17:58:00.000-05:002014-09-04T17:58:04.759-05:00Just Hanging Around<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6I2F1LlwBGSilIcntWOTxLujA-UehRr0cuuEQN9yoElTFd7u3EKl5Ot4yYT08LIw51afiG8kujy2X5tOCI4UIauKg5GP5tlM4WWRGbrnaVmrWJ5t9W9D34D4RWD6yt8wbWEwvyW2Xf5NX/s1600/2014+blue+insect_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6I2F1LlwBGSilIcntWOTxLujA-UehRr0cuuEQN9yoElTFd7u3EKl5Ot4yYT08LIw51afiG8kujy2X5tOCI4UIauKg5GP5tlM4WWRGbrnaVmrWJ5t9W9D34D4RWD6yt8wbWEwvyW2Xf5NX/s1600/2014+blue+insect_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
This little guy was just hanging around the other night. I had to use all my proper long lens hand holding skills to get a sharp image.<br />
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I was shooting with a 300mm f4 plus a TC 1.4 - so any little movement that I did was going to be exagerated - not to mention a little big on a little piece of grass - I needed everyone to remain calm.<br />
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I like the results.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-22656202496504598842014-08-29T22:43:00.001-05:002014-08-29T22:43:49.388-05:00Tall Grass Prairie Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJj-z0_iBGtzaoGL70EP5GUTs8S6-9eUGkpZOvMfOg-TKbY8lvHgoEQLfzomNjVT0eg9BDfgdJavBx72P-3a0XQpHeis18YttbEeIIBOL2f2HUOY-bhgP65PrCUxJVhflaGGVQM_SjEuod/s1600/gayfeather_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJj-z0_iBGtzaoGL70EP5GUTs8S6-9eUGkpZOvMfOg-TKbY8lvHgoEQLfzomNjVT0eg9BDfgdJavBx72P-3a0XQpHeis18YttbEeIIBOL2f2HUOY-bhgP65PrCUxJVhflaGGVQM_SjEuod/s1600/gayfeather_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
The Spiked Gayfeathers are just starting to bloom on the prairie. These flowers are spectacular and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 70-200 2.8Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-33466277265963667182014-08-24T22:32:00.002-05:002014-08-24T22:32:59.208-05:00Big Bluestem 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaUqHgHVEq64eGczW2iN7n_TwXmF40XVshSL8GNOy1tRCKsbS-ZCg9y6Xs9n2nECUICXJjkkrK0IkQbnzGJvo5Io4w7ZnSVUGHpj8vUBpEIV__EvcPQkbQUJRmP5tAI8qlSTMXE0grwaw/s1600/2014bigbluestem2_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaUqHgHVEq64eGczW2iN7n_TwXmF40XVshSL8GNOy1tRCKsbS-ZCg9y6Xs9n2nECUICXJjkkrK0IkQbnzGJvo5Io4w7ZnSVUGHpj8vUBpEIV__EvcPQkbQUJRmP5tAI8qlSTMXE0grwaw/s1600/2014bigbluestem2_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
I took advantage of an amazing NE sunset tonight. After looking through many images of the Big Blue Stem grasses I saw this image that appears to have a dragon fly in the background.<br />
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Sometimes cool things happen - but they don't if you don't get out there and shoot. I try to shoot everyday. It is good discipline and good for my soul.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 70-200 2.8Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-18798182867742310072014-08-19T17:40:00.001-05:002014-08-19T17:40:14.666-05:00Hot Air Ballooning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvN5b6wW_tJ1_XHShRb0jIWKsM_5UPGnMMwsgDLwjmhPz8m2umacnhfibxKRR7i4t4HJmM60_t5-4F7WnFc6Mgpch2J4f3O1FkAck7udw144oc1K7R3XB0zBJ5peNR4hh3MHeFRaSSHLGs/s1600/2014+hotairballoon+evening_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvN5b6wW_tJ1_XHShRb0jIWKsM_5UPGnMMwsgDLwjmhPz8m2umacnhfibxKRR7i4t4HJmM60_t5-4F7WnFc6Mgpch2J4f3O1FkAck7udw144oc1K7R3XB0zBJ5peNR4hh3MHeFRaSSHLGs/s1600/2014+hotairballoon+evening_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
If you have followed this blog at all you know that I love hot air balloons. I love to chase them. I even get to crew for a balloon company now.<br />
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You might say I stalk hot air balloons. If I see them I chase them.<br />
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One of the key elements in a ballooning photograph is obvious the balloon. This balloon is one of my favorites in the Omaha area because of the bright colors. They just pop.<br />
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Another key element are clouds. A balloon with a clear blue sky - it is OK. A balloon with a grey sky - not so much. But a balloon with some cool clouds that add depth and drama - very cool.<br />
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I took this shot last night. I was out walking my dog when a balloon rose up in the Elkhorn River valley east of Valley, NE. The chase was on.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 70-200Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-31375488382733704502014-08-18T22:26:00.002-05:002014-08-18T22:26:46.703-05:00Big Bluestem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNU1iDseBVktlrE9h3e_H47nibIyFvlKIKPvZOrtdtkebuKgddELHgzHw2uM1t0zJyZ4rf3ERIIkBj5JptadsYEGoiyHbix_EwthRiCADgBdlgcBaRIGSiPwRBvZF-EjrE5hXYTnLV0oX/s1600/2014+big+blue+stem_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNU1iDseBVktlrE9h3e_H47nibIyFvlKIKPvZOrtdtkebuKgddELHgzHw2uM1t0zJyZ4rf3ERIIkBj5JptadsYEGoiyHbix_EwthRiCADgBdlgcBaRIGSiPwRBvZF-EjrE5hXYTnLV0oX/s1600/2014+big+blue+stem_copy.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
Big Bluestem is an amazing grass. It is capable of growing to up to 8 feet tall. It is also called Turkey foot.<br />
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It is a fun grass to photograph is the sunset is good and the winds are calm.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Nikon 50 1.4 afs<br />
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<br />Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-64661146077119258802014-08-11T22:33:00.000-05:002014-08-11T22:33:14.775-05:00Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v-Xc6B4cIaEvZ3q-SyYYVwx99ZrBRD08rF1wOu1QQ6BlVIh-jBQHHppitqC_4oimVewkxfvLnZ-sKByM_U4BC4RKqoCgjoovHlGEuCsolYeOw_7ysecnXJahEoAWxG0r1B9n0lMOQBKh/s1600/2014+hotairballoonfestival_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v-Xc6B4cIaEvZ3q-SyYYVwx99ZrBRD08rF1wOu1QQ6BlVIh-jBQHHppitqC_4oimVewkxfvLnZ-sKByM_U4BC4RKqoCgjoovHlGEuCsolYeOw_7ysecnXJahEoAWxG0r1B9n0lMOQBKh/s1600/2014+hotairballoonfestival_copy.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
The Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival is an awesome event. Thousands of people. Lots of Wine Tasting. Great bands. But the reason I go - Hot Air Balloons.<br />
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I went this year with Linda and some friends. They had never been before. So it was very fun to share it with them.<br />
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As the balloons are inflating I like to get the 70-200 out and compress the scene. It is fast and furious shooting because there is movement and lift off happening pretty fast. You just grab what you can.<br />
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This is a pretty small ballooning event. 6-8 balloons. Some day I am going to go to a big festival.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-70423452960398021152014-07-25T11:36:00.003-05:002014-07-25T11:36:42.433-05:00Air Show 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp_kZWlU7bN6uuh3RYrtGZ1t8guzYnm4oq3MwF0Og3udlbVMP-aekz10e07B1K48ZKnsIRGKWmA-nWHgXPM-SKPMpVMxQWgwxHQh19xFMTmav6hEHYUTCu0jjdkSBBcV3RDk8WcQt-U56/s1600/2014+airshow+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp_kZWlU7bN6uuh3RYrtGZ1t8guzYnm4oq3MwF0Og3udlbVMP-aekz10e07B1K48ZKnsIRGKWmA-nWHgXPM-SKPMpVMxQWgwxHQh19xFMTmav6hEHYUTCu0jjdkSBBcV3RDk8WcQt-U56/s1600/2014+airshow+3.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
I totally love these planes - colorful - loud - prop planes. So I tried to slow the shutter speed down - so that the prop would be blurred. This is shot at 1/640 which is still too fast.<br />
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But there is a little blur. I need to work on my panning technique. I still really like the picture.<br />
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Can't wait tell the next time.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-73047247497643228912014-07-19T20:35:00.002-05:002014-07-19T20:35:30.651-05:00Offut Air Show<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8ZcJkoVuaRdZuqPFBYLNeikUNYxrBfbqzJKnJpn3CG9UhNMw_OFEbvhdBSJkpkmq2ySHtPvLLrtAs3gD0EBXx1r3LAjIQGtn_fPxTGTegwBnB4XiU0uvDxbyVqNberfKhl52iQnzIAVS/s1600/2014+airshow_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8ZcJkoVuaRdZuqPFBYLNeikUNYxrBfbqzJKnJpn3CG9UhNMw_OFEbvhdBSJkpkmq2ySHtPvLLrtAs3gD0EBXx1r3LAjIQGtn_fPxTGTegwBnB4XiU0uvDxbyVqNberfKhl52iQnzIAVS/s1600/2014+airshow_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
The Defenders of Freedom Air Show was back this year after being cancelled last year. This year the Blue Angels were at the show!<br />
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Thoughts of Maverick and Goose.<br />
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<br />Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-30454718165347890752014-07-18T19:52:00.003-05:002014-07-18T19:52:59.879-05:00Yankee Boy Basin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While in Ouray, Co we rented a Jeep for the day. One of the coolest things I have ever done. We picked up our Jeep at 6:00 pm on Sunday night and didn't have to have it back until 5:00 pm on Monday.<br />
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Since we are flatland folks from NE we started out with an a trail that was rated a 2. It goes all the way up to 5 - which we were not allowed to go on.<br />
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This trail was called Yankee Boy Basin. The trail dead ends at a couple of little waterfalls. There was also tons of wildflowers as well.<br />
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I also was excited about trying out my new ND filters!!! So up the hill we went.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />
Tokina 12-24Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-46554535480018240902014-07-16T20:12:00.002-05:002014-07-16T20:12:32.567-05:00Rocky Mountain High <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-tPRBlPcW85OjFVeVVOxQS7QOlvdiR5A9ICaImMedYn3AsNT_Np_j3rYa1-Ondgde-3tUzoQubYl9o-iPb-hiPZfl2mPSR2n2nNRA0izy_Z2-Oo8K3-uE5EgrwhXuoHQyvItcvG1upwQ/s1600/2014+colorado_copy_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-tPRBlPcW85OjFVeVVOxQS7QOlvdiR5A9ICaImMedYn3AsNT_Np_j3rYa1-Ondgde-3tUzoQubYl9o-iPb-hiPZfl2mPSR2n2nNRA0izy_Z2-Oo8K3-uE5EgrwhXuoHQyvItcvG1upwQ/s1600/2014+colorado_copy_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Linda and I spent that last week in Colorado at a place that we had only driven through. We decided we wanted to spend a few days there, so we set out for Ouray, CO.<br />
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Before we got there we spent the night in Gunnison. Linda and I had spent a night there over 27 years ago. It did not go well then. A real bad hotel room can spoil the whole experience. So when I suggested that we spend the night there - Linda voted a very strong no.<br />
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As we drove into town there was a brand new Holiday Inn Express. Linda was convinced that nothing was going to crawl on her this time. We stayed!<br />
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The next morning we headed up to Crested Butte. This stream was on the way up the mountain and it called my name. Using my brand new neutral density filters I took several long exposures. The week got off to a great start but would only get better.<br />
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Nikon D7000<br />
Tokina 12-24Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-4556527510946689422014-07-07T22:38:00.000-05:002014-07-07T22:38:24.315-05:00A Lttle Different Take On Tonight's Sunset<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-9U2nltNuePe2pvfVBUOtRLaGK_HOQ_u0ALZ0EKX-S6zmgpMH2iIJlCST8yHza2vBKYMj22GZiDD_bgXO-4eoezdTh3QpS13dNqwvP1ymqgx9FwfmKgIv3EnTvBInJxkGjdAEK7RIsui/s1600/2014+sunset+delicate_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-9U2nltNuePe2pvfVBUOtRLaGK_HOQ_u0ALZ0EKX-S6zmgpMH2iIJlCST8yHza2vBKYMj22GZiDD_bgXO-4eoezdTh3QpS13dNqwvP1ymqgx9FwfmKgIv3EnTvBInJxkGjdAEK7RIsui/s1600/2014+sunset+delicate_copy.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Tonight's sunset on the Prairie was spectacular. The colors were amazing. Best I have seen. After capturing the large landscape scenes I decided to look around for a subject for some silhouette shots.<br />
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These delicate grasses grabbed me and pulled me in.<br />
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Fortunately there was no wind.<br />
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Nikon d7000<br />Nikon 50mm 1.4 afsMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-16154195083037810492014-06-28T22:50:00.000-05:002014-06-28T22:50:03.740-05:00Nebraska Fire Weed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4EvLgygvZ_UOawoRb6Bwory2sEwk8cdIfZ1wd1xQ2Oavmvk6bC1wXIAtG_KANaQxfW2-qbJksUEVPP5VzAw6ukFeUDbtSZsW9ygt_AK5d9lDNs8niB5tJcm1kCWvQ560S-PtUW8HEcCoM/s1600/2014+prairie+clover_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4EvLgygvZ_UOawoRb6Bwory2sEwk8cdIfZ1wd1xQ2Oavmvk6bC1wXIAtG_KANaQxfW2-qbJksUEVPP5VzAw6ukFeUDbtSZsW9ygt_AK5d9lDNs8niB5tJcm1kCWvQ560S-PtUW8HEcCoM/s1600/2014+prairie+clover_copy.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
The first time I went to Alaska I was introduced to Fire Weed. An absolute stunning plant that is so much fun to photograph. This is the tall grass version of the Fire Weed.<br />
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I used a 300 mm with an 1.4 to isolate the plant from the background. Plus it kept me a good distance from the bees. Hate them.<br />
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<br />Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-71258385269846870202014-06-22T23:06:00.001-05:002014-06-22T23:06:04.261-05:00Mexican Hat <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPDqwH7kP_jWoJP3KgOcVxWi1eBVRcvXG8FdgN21dAsjjgpxJYKsmuj-qOaOdXDzkmJmedXYu7S3yzBrfIJNdb887rkMv5JNApz0kx-hqJ47dM7DqdXu2QDaHgbE12JAe-Hz9ollQnbku/s1600/2014+mexican+hat+2_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPDqwH7kP_jWoJP3KgOcVxWi1eBVRcvXG8FdgN21dAsjjgpxJYKsmuj-qOaOdXDzkmJmedXYu7S3yzBrfIJNdb887rkMv5JNApz0kx-hqJ47dM7DqdXu2QDaHgbE12JAe-Hz9ollQnbku/s1600/2014+mexican+hat+2_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Prairie Flowers are just starting to really pop now in NE. These are called Mexican Hat. They are spectacular.<br />
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Great time to be photographing in the prairie except for the chiggers. Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-45322280647669337972014-06-12T23:26:00.001-05:002014-06-12T23:26:52.195-05:00Kayak Special While on our family vacation at the Lake of The Ozarks, my daughter in law decided to do a little Kayaking. The sun broke through for the first time in days and lit up of the lake. I asked Alyssa if she would paddle into this gorgeous light - and like a true super model she maneuvered the craft perfectly - and this is the result.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO17BGRw9wS0mhB-cMtgH_1l-73YSSNhQJkFFchHcKr6gcUZeDb9PTlI_Pn3eCB1GK2B30vP1zipNiH8_kr8bzfrx5TiyOpB5w_juXTYA9ILsKz88Ujlgy9IXeYzwVM6gaUlARpSTBmZFg/s1600/2014+allysa_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO17BGRw9wS0mhB-cMtgH_1l-73YSSNhQJkFFchHcKr6gcUZeDb9PTlI_Pn3eCB1GK2B30vP1zipNiH8_kr8bzfrx5TiyOpB5w_juXTYA9ILsKz88Ujlgy9IXeYzwVM6gaUlARpSTBmZFg/s1600/2014+allysa_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-65728035455658926102014-05-29T22:52:00.000-05:002014-05-29T22:52:00.377-05:00Elk City Church<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJeoqfL4gDZuYhUNnKUnJFGmQPxIxqgMIv8r4yQ95-s0sp7bUOReFVFYyTDjGwYwenDyBEUu_ctMrW5-9yiMuQrClP4QKUowVJblL4Ox68N7alzY9NSk-wDiIK7bQuxCK4pVG2HJmc9YT/s1600/2014elkcitychurch_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJeoqfL4gDZuYhUNnKUnJFGmQPxIxqgMIv8r4yQ95-s0sp7bUOReFVFYyTDjGwYwenDyBEUu_ctMrW5-9yiMuQrClP4QKUowVJblL4Ox68N7alzY9NSk-wDiIK7bQuxCK4pVG2HJmc9YT/s1600/2014elkcitychurch_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Elk City, NE is just north of our house. It is a little town of about a dozen houses, a bar, and old school and this church building. The church is used now for weddings and social events.<br />
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I did a wedding there last year for some friends. A great venue.<br />
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As I was riding my motorcycle I saw this scene unfolding. Took a few snaps with my Iphone and then drove home to get my DSLR.<br />
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This was the result.<br />
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Nikon D7000<br />
Tokina 12-24Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-89349415457988103072014-05-25T21:55:00.001-05:002014-05-25T21:55:15.897-05:00Platte River Shoot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgNTdVdxoq4RK4SXdXv0V_YgaGnfU9cIhvuwOyvlCNXY1Mn74I7w6WSe4v_RSbsbZ-TAGuKdNN9DPaNzrrGQeNryqiFN2xOotyYx0B1Ao0daKCu48CDt14w6nCo2hT3phvH818MtzweVX/s1600/2014+platte+river.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgNTdVdxoq4RK4SXdXv0V_YgaGnfU9cIhvuwOyvlCNXY1Mn74I7w6WSe4v_RSbsbZ-TAGuKdNN9DPaNzrrGQeNryqiFN2xOotyYx0B1Ao0daKCu48CDt14w6nCo2hT3phvH818MtzweVX/s1600/2014+platte+river.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
So it has been a while since I have been out to one of my favorite places on the Platte River. Headed out to find that the river had really changed. It took me a little while to get reacquainted but I began to get a feel for what I was looking for.<br />
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Long exposures are super fun. It is intoxicating kind of fun - I had forgotten how much enjoyment I get from a 20 second shot and then a 20 second wait to see what you get.<br />
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Get out there and try long exposures. You will love it.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-78595980999053981082014-05-20T21:04:00.004-05:002014-05-20T21:04:55.389-05:00Rose-Breasted Grosbeak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTYBmSLHQp3ET1QsaqTusmYcIE-pjiZXlod6IYa4VqDW1FXAl1y4DxkPi2LoyJr-M_6ZnGhqn5G5xRjAs6UU0iTLpstVrsLKHBRldL_MKUMv-mcjyBubdIW3PM59OWMjVVJ9v_ICEhrX0/s1600/2014+reb+breasted+groosbeak_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTYBmSLHQp3ET1QsaqTusmYcIE-pjiZXlod6IYa4VqDW1FXAl1y4DxkPi2LoyJr-M_6ZnGhqn5G5xRjAs6UU0iTLpstVrsLKHBRldL_MKUMv-mcjyBubdIW3PM59OWMjVVJ9v_ICEhrX0/s1600/2014+reb+breasted+groosbeak_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
I look forward every year to the arrival of the Rose-Breasted Grosbeak every year to the feeder. They are absolutely awesome birds. Large bill. Great colors. Very distinctive.<br />
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<br />Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-70097193434076521312014-05-15T23:04:00.002-05:002014-05-15T23:04:31.448-05:00Into The Sunset<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDVg38vKTcsF8bVWAiEZOpDkTiVIgbekeY9Ws90zu3x4-v-FuAmnTaMWtTfSNJMIDyxSaJ4IUulZ7cE-Xnn_YCpdY5e6sDg02pSEOmow4HnKg5dLcMkqBQoQ0Splynm9EdO0jrgMMy2dr/s1600/2014+sunsetplant_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDVg38vKTcsF8bVWAiEZOpDkTiVIgbekeY9Ws90zu3x4-v-FuAmnTaMWtTfSNJMIDyxSaJ4IUulZ7cE-Xnn_YCpdY5e6sDg02pSEOmow4HnKg5dLcMkqBQoQ0Splynm9EdO0jrgMMy2dr/s1600/2014+sunsetplant_copy.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
Silhouettes are a ton of fun to shoot and pretty easy. Your camera is going to do most of the work. But find an interesting subject and a great sunset and have at it.<br />
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This was from our home last night. The colors were excellent and finding an year old plant worked for me.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-60408329388970777232014-05-09T16:25:00.003-05:002014-05-09T16:25:57.552-05:00National Public Garden Day #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGrOKZ30w8q39gGBY_VADb54WjWb9Ilpj0Jl4S3vKKYsgWy1LIWMkA68_T7YUv4wEWaYHgvs4ba-ZzFwtKRThQoDNumE0woyuMGiqSWeO5hcCV_uuAzwtpY1gGfYpTkpD-pO3fXJVKr02/s1600/2014+laurentzen+gardens3_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGrOKZ30w8q39gGBY_VADb54WjWb9Ilpj0Jl4S3vKKYsgWy1LIWMkA68_T7YUv4wEWaYHgvs4ba-ZzFwtKRThQoDNumE0woyuMGiqSWeO5hcCV_uuAzwtpY1gGfYpTkpD-pO3fXJVKr02/s1600/2014+laurentzen+gardens3_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
This little guy was hanging out right above the walking path.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-62658581303480960502014-05-09T16:21:00.003-05:002014-05-09T16:21:50.567-05:00National Public Gardens Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWBbZMB317zfWiT_TT4wcVgdo33LUSezRf8AMiAso_05eMj2vcRkQuUSNVu82TkPJhoeCeCy68BmhDFVFRtw4NGbZFP3crBW2ish1v27emGFAZDR5w9oHtnp0POX5oCT79H1txinIZI5t/s1600/2014+laurenten+gardens_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWBbZMB317zfWiT_TT4wcVgdo33LUSezRf8AMiAso_05eMj2vcRkQuUSNVu82TkPJhoeCeCy68BmhDFVFRtw4NGbZFP3crBW2ish1v27emGFAZDR5w9oHtnp0POX5oCT79H1txinIZI5t/s1600/2014+laurenten+gardens_copy.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
Another shot from this morning's walk.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7221885264981897113.post-88983330754537492112014-05-09T16:20:00.001-05:002014-05-09T16:20:32.366-05:00National Public Garens Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvfEcG77SVCYyEAWWoHLtVM5bWXhETYbb0YpZ5S8WqHA4to0asEW4sVu0WVhs2J3H-d5OnEYRAsUeo33oE3KGZFezQNLZ-AJBwsOK4w7ljKjajgoOaTCu_7vcQ16qY4hfz-41CKcTHJ9K/s1600/2014+laurentzen+gardens2_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvfEcG77SVCYyEAWWoHLtVM5bWXhETYbb0YpZ5S8WqHA4to0asEW4sVu0WVhs2J3H-d5OnEYRAsUeo33oE3KGZFezQNLZ-AJBwsOK4w7ljKjajgoOaTCu_7vcQ16qY4hfz-41CKcTHJ9K/s1600/2014+laurentzen+gardens2_copy.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Omaha has a wonderful Botanical Garden called Lauritzen Gardens. Today it was National Public Gardens Day so the entrance fee was waved.<br />
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I got to the gardens when it opened at 9:00 and it was lovely. Lots of cars were arriving when I got there, but there was still plenty of places of solitude.<br />
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By the time I left the place was overrun by tons of people. It was a lot of fun seeing all the little kids and their parents enjoying the day. Teachers were their with their class.<br />
If you are looking for a place to spend a few hours I would recommend these gardens. Get there early before the heat hits.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00598215316824714846noreply@blogger.com0