"The Catch of the Day"

Over the past week, I have had the privilege of being aboard Capt. Lewis Shelton's boat, the Miss Mae as it explored the waters of the southern end of the Chesapeake Bay. It would be hard to put into words just how incredible these past few days have been, as we have seen so many wonderful sights and met the most interesting and hard working people one could encounter. In just a few short days, I was taken back in time to a place that has gone unchanged for generations.

The photographs included in this post are the result of one early morning sunrise encounter with a crew of hard working fisherman, as they begin their day. Leaving our dock before sunrise, we set at their net awaiting their arrival, and the catch they would pull from the nets. These men welcomed our presence and cooperated in every way possible to insure that my photographs would be the very best possible. I cannot thank them enough for the morning they chose to share with me. I will be forever thankful and appreciative.

I hope as you view these photos you will think about not just these fisherman, but about the tradition they continue. Using the same techniques taught to them by their fathers and grandfathers, they catch the fish we enjoy in the finest resturants accross the nation. Because of their hard and dangerous work, we enjoy the "Catch of the Day."

Sometimes You Just Have to Do It

Let me begin this posting by saying that I really don't like zoos. I know, they have a purpose, and we have all heard that they do wonders in breeding endangered species and preserving animals that might otherwise be lost. Still, I just hate seeing any living thing caged, no matter what the reason. However, having said that, I do occassionally find myself visiting local zoos as I travel around the country. Usually, this comes about out of just plain frustration and a need to get out of the hotel and into some shooting.

Last week I found myself in Columbia, South Carolina, where I decided to spend the morning shooting the Flamingos housed there. They have a wonderful flock of Flamingos that are easily accessed by the public, and kept in beautiful plumage. I love these birds, and find them wonderful photographic subjects. Flamingos have interesting plumage and seem to love positioning themselves in unusual ways. If you haven't had a chance to photograph them, you should find a flock near your area and give them a try. I think you will be rewarded with the results.

My goal in this shoot was to see them in new ways. I wanted to capture them in an artistic way and not simply create a "bird shot." I'd love to know what you all think.