Houses

Jun 27, 2015

Houses
Dancing may be my main passion, but shooting houses, the complete opposite spectrum photographically, is an exciting change of pace. Instead of watching for moments and paying attention to the music, I’m getting it all right before I open the shutter.

But the end result should draw you in with either genre, so if these pictures make you want to check out these houses, then apparently I’m doing my job!

Stories

Stories

Oct 28, 2014

As a child,

I loved Norman Rockwell’s paintings. The story, the characters, the love for America, and the humor.

Now as a photographer,

I use him as my muse whenever I’m trying to tell a story. There is no bigger thrill than hearing that one of my pictures reminds someone of Rockwell.

Zoo Outing

Zoo Outing

Sep 3, 2014

Entrance
Today’s Zoo day! I’ve been looking forward to this since its grand opening a week ago. The first thing I notice when I arrive at the entrance is their welcoming sign, including reviews by current visitors, and a newsletter stand next to the gate. Here, I find out all about today’s events. (Oh look! They’re hiring! I might need to inquire about that one)
I’m warmly greeted by the head zookeeper as I step onto the property. She proudly introduces me to her favorite exhibit right up front: “lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” It’s a delightful area of some of nature’s most imposing beasts.
Next up: the water exhibit. I immediately fall in love with the duck, perched gracefully on the “wing” of the sting ray. I quickly divert my eyes when I see the shark enjoying a snack of frog. I know these things happen in the wild, but it doesn’t make it easier to see in front of me.
To my right, I’m pulled in to the world of the panda. A mother and her baby are sitting quietly, so gentle and loving. If I had a pet, it would have to be a panda. (who am I kidding? I don’t even want a goldfish!) Next door is another favorite black-and-white creature: the penguin. She’s a spunky thing, and I fall in love completely. Until she squacks, at which time I decide to move on to the next area.
What a treat awaits me! A friendly elephant is snacking near me, and in the neighboring enclosure I see two monkeys. They know they’re stars of the show and make sure to ham it up enough to stay that way!
Next up is a tribute to domesticated creatures. A dog and cat share a small enclosure, and they’re friendly enough that you can spend time petting them. Kids love this part, as evidenced by the long line of children, anxious to get their hands on that soft, white fur.
I can’t find the zookeeper to explain the next exhibit: a giraffe and a lamb, side by side. They seem quite content, so I don’t complain, but it’s two animals I wouldn’t have expected to see together.
Oh, but then the flamingos next door! They steal my heart! I forget all about the odd pairing next door and just watch the rapport between two of the beautiful pink birds.
The barn area is my last stop. The pigs are snuggled close, and the cows enjoy their friendly barn. I will be sure to visit this zoo again. Maybe next time I’ll bring my children along, so they can enjoy the beauty and friendliness of the place. Thank you, Jasmine’s Zoo, for providing such a pleasant afternoon!