Heartland Views

If you look closely, you might see a man’s face in the clouds looking down upon the trees. I shot this as a storm was moving through our area. And if you are wondering, I did not paint the face into the clouds. It just appears there when I add a bit of contrast to the clouds. That is the beauty of photography. There is often a surprise in an image if one looks closely enough with an open mind and a curious heart.

Here is another post storm photo. This one is built upon one of my favorite Photoshop filters, the poster edges filter. You might have to look close to see the gate. Trust me, it is there. Thanks for looking.

We had some severe weather move through our area last week. I shot this photo right after the storm moved out. The view is looking east. I hope you like this one.

I had some time today to play with a new piece of software, Nik Software Color Efex Pro 3.0. This was not cheap, but boy is it fun! Here is the first photo I made with this software. I shot the photo a few days ago and used the “Polaroid Transfer” filter to create this effect. It looks like this is the begining of a beautiful friendship.

I really enjoy shooting groups. There is something fascinating about looking at all the people who gather for one purpose. I shot this photo last Sunday. The group, as you may note, is the Iowa Western Community Band. If you look close enough, you can see me on the right side with my Conn 10M tenor sax. I set this shot up and then had my able assistant Russ shoot the image when we were all in place.

The phrase, “a good time was had by all,” certainly applies to the March Second Fridays arts event in Council Bluffs, IA. There were a lot of first class artsists showing a wide variety of items. And there was a really large and appreciative group of arts fans on hand to share in the event. I am sure that I speak for all when I say that I had a great time talking and sharing wth all on hand. I can’t wait until the next gathering, which is scheduled for April 10. In the meantime, check out my new list of links under the artists category. I can speak with first hand knowledge that all of the folks listed in this links list are really gifted in their chosen medium. Enjoy!

If you are looking for a wonderful arts event, please consider the Second Fridays Arts Event this Friday night  in Council Bluffs, Iowa. I am attaching the event poster (link below) to give you an idea of how many outstanding artists will be participating in this event. I am sure that I speak for all when I say that we truly hope you join us for this event.

Second Fridays Arts Event

One of my favorite sayings is, “You can’t put your foot in the same river twice.” Every time I shoot a special image, I am reminded that photography is a wonderful historical tool. Although I cannot relive those special moments in my life, I am thankful that I can at least capture those moments that make up my life story.  This photo, which I call “Passing Through,” reminds me that we all are fortunate to have some special memories that can be captured and shared through this medium.

I heard recently that the key to survival for our rural areas lies in our country roads. I could not agree more as you can see from this road which runs for two miles before hitting a hard surface two lane highway. It is always an adventure when traveling on this road. I call this one, “Morning Commute.”