Merced Morning – Yosemite

Merced Morning – Yosemite

The Merced River, in the central part of California, is a 145-mile  tributary of the San Joaquin River flowing from the Sierra Nevada. It is most well known for its swift and steep course through the southern part of Yosemite National Park and the world-famous Yosemite Valley. The river’s character changes dramatically once it reaches the foothills and the lowlands, becoming a slow-moving waterway meandering through irrigated fields.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

The Winner of The Fomenar Prize is Announced

PRIZE 2016

Longest Night – Eastern State Penitentiary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ROME, ITALY: 2/12/2017

PhotoArtist Rich Smukler of the United States has been awarded  the first prize for his haunting image “Longest Night” taken at the Eastern State Penitentiary in his home town, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Smukler is one of 30 finalists for this coveted award. The exhibition of all 30 finalists will take place

From April 1 to April 14, 2017 (including the Easter week) at Arte Borgo gallery in Rome. The Arte Borgo gallery is located in Rome, in the heart of the Borgo district, a few steps from the Vatican city, a location which allows a considerable visibility to art lovers during the time of the year when Rome is most visited.

The opening reception will be held 4/1/2017 at Arte Borgo Gallery
Borgo Vittorio 25
ROMA – ITALY
Tel.: +39 06 44 61 945 at 18:00 h

A follow up Exposition of this work will be presented at Stilgalerie in Vienna, Austria 6/5/2017 through 6/16/2017. More information to follow.

To win this award one had to go through a two-tiered process. Firstly, the 30 finalists were selected from a highly respected jury of seven individuals. The remaining 30 finalists then voted amongst themselves as to whom the prize should be awarded. Smukler states, “to be selected by a jury of my piers is a special honor for me.”

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Meadow Mist

Meadow Mist – Yosemite National Park

The cold rain of Yosemite is a blessing to photographers. As the  early sun rises and warms the dampened meadows, an eerie, ghostlike mist and fog permeate the area.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Swampscapes

Swampscape #1

This infrared image was captured at The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee Refuge Complex. It is composed of two national wildlife refuges in southeastern Florida. The refuge includes 145,800 acres of the northern Everglades habitat and has become my go-to place for peaceful serenity. The beauty of Infrared photography is that if you aren’t too excited about greeting the dawn or  waiting for sundown as is generally required with much of landscape photography, you can shoot when the sun is high in the sky which provides great opportunity.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Your Camera and Bright Light Conditions

Infrared Photography in South Florida

The beauty of Infrared photography is best brought out when the sun’s infrared rays are strongest. Typically, this is midday when the sun is at its brightest. Unfortunately, if you are shooting using live view, your LED will be difficult to see due to glare.

Though I rarely recommend various products, I encourage you take a look at Hoodman HoodLoupe Optical Viewfinder for 3.2″ LCD Displays and related products. It effectively blocks out the sun’s glare and allows you to have a clear view of your subject. Hoodman also has a rubber eye loop which fits over your viewfinder if you are hand-holding your camera and don’t use your LED.

Hoodman HoodLoupe Optical Viewfinder for 3.2″ LCD Displays

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

 

Tips for Cold Weather Photography

Denali National Park, Alaska

A recent trip to Alaska caused me to revisit some basic tips when shooting in pretty extreme weather conditions. The temperature varied from near freezing to the low 80s and provided quite a challenge when it came to preparation for the trip. A few things you should keep in mind:

1. Camera Preparation: Consider your settings beforehand (to the best of your ability) and before you step outside. You don’t need to be fussing with your camera when you get out in the cold. Also, try to get your camera out in the cold for a significant period of time before you shoot. Otherwise, going from a warm lodge or car directly to the cold weather will cause condensation to form on your lenses and camera – not a pleasant thing.

2. Clothing: Layers of course, the conditions can change quickly and you’ll need to be ready. Gloves are a critical piece of the puzzle. There are some winter gloves available that allow you to remove the fingers which permit you to manipulate the camera when outdoors. I personally prefer using thin glove liners. When you are looking for subject matter or waiting for the light you can wear the glove shells and slip them off when ready to get to work.

3. Coming Indoors: Consider an airtight plastic bag for your camera to avoid condensation and remove your memory card as soon as possible for the same reason.

Happy Shooting!

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Crowley Point, Death Valley

The majestic scenic overlook at Crowley Point is nothing less than breathtaking. It is located at the west entrance to Death Valley National Park and provides a wide variety of panoramic photographic landscape possibilities.

Crowley Point, Death Valley National Park

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Lost in the Sierras

Lost in the Sierras

I stumbled upon this quirky image in the prairies outside Bishop, California. The tires serve as a marker to a farm hidden back in the brush. Mountains from The Inyo National Forest serve as a backdrop and curiously mirror the contours of the tires.

For those who are unaware, the Inyo National Forest covers part of the eastern Sierra Nevada of California and the White Mountains of California and Nevada. The forest covers 1,903,381 acres and includes nine designated  wilderness areas which protect over 800,000 acres.

 Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Our Elephants are Disappearing

A recent article  in The Washington Post by Darryl Fears is titled “Forest elephants are vanishing, and they might never recover from poaching.” It points out the startling decline in birthrate as well as the negative impact of poaching. I found it both saddening and alarming. This particular image was taken at The San Diego Zoo. Though I have been to East Africa (Tanzania and Kenya), this particular photo sticks with me.

Our Elephants are Dying

 Is there something we can do as individuals to stem the tide and protect these magnificent animals? I encourage your thoughts.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

International Color Awards in Architectural Photography

Longest Night – Eastern State Penitentiary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

9TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS HONOR Rich Smukler from Boca Raton, Florida.

LOS ANGELES 8/24 – Rich Smukler of the United States was presented with the 9th Annual International Color Awards Nominee title in the category of Architecture: architectural photography.  He was also nominated in the Category of Nature: nature photography. 5,678 entries were received from 78 countries.

“I am proud to announce that ICA saw fit to bestow this honor. You might remember that ‘Longest Night’ was awarded Honorable Mention at this year’s International Photography of the Year Awards.”

“Longest Night” is part of a photographic essay of Eastern State Penitentiary recently published by LenCulture Magazine. Located in Philadelphia (Smukler’s hometown), Eastern State Penitentiary was once the largest and most expensive public structure ever erected, and quickly became a model for more than 300 prisons worldwide and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965. It was also known for some such infamous prisoners as Al Capone and Willie Sutton.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

International Color Awards Nominee

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

9TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS HONORS Rich Smukler from Boca Raton, Florida.

LOS ANGELES 8/24 – Rich Smukler of the United States was presented with the 9th Annual International Color Awards Nominee title in the category of Nature Photography.  5,678 entries were received from 78 countries.

The live online gala was attended by over 10,000 photography fans around the globe who logged on to watch the climax of the industry’s most important event for color photography. 

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

 

From Skagway to Davidson Glacier

So here you are, enjoying your early morning coffee in Skagway, Alaska and looking for something amazing to do. Look no further. Consider the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. I’d like to tell you that it’s right down the road and you can’t miss it. Not quite true, but certainly worth the effort. You start off in a custom enclosed power boat for a 45-minute ride through Lynn Canal which happens to be North America’s deepest and longest fjord – with a chance to see all types of sea life, waterfalls and mountain views. The trip takes about 45 minutes. Upon arrival at Glacier Point beach you board a bus for a short ride to a base camp where you will gear up with boots to repel the glacier silt, life jackets and wet weather gear. A hike through a magnificent rain forest leads to 31-foot voyager canoes that will take to you Davidson Glacier recounted by John Muir in his travels around Glacier Bay in 1879. Just amazing! You will walk though the glacier silt and rock formations as you get closer to this natural wonder.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Alaska – Our Last Frontier

Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre  Alaskan World Heritage Site—one of the world’s largest international protected areas. Place a big check next to this amazing bucket list item!

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Jordon Pond in Acadia National Park

Located near Bar Harbor, Maine, Jordan Pond is a glacier formed tarn with a maximum water depth of 150 feet. The water is exceptionally clear with an average visibility depth of 46 feet (14 m) but this has been measured as high as 60 feet (18 m), the most ever recorded in the State of Maine. If you go, you can grab a snack at the nearby Jordon Pond House. For those who have never visited the area, Acadia National Park is a stunning national treasure on the coast of Maine.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Pine Glades Lake in The Everglades

In the United States, The Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness, the largest wilderness of any kind east of the Mississippi River and is visited on average by one million people each year.It is the third-largest national park in the lower 48 states after Death Valley and Yellowstone. It has been declared an International Biosphere Reserve, a World heritage Site in Florida, and a Wetland of International Importance, one of only three locations in the world to appear on all three lists.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Glade Walker

The Everglades National Park in Florida covers over 1,500,000 acres. This amazing ecosystem provides quite the photographic challenge and opportunity. Typically, the winter months are the most sane time to visit, due to the heat and thirsty mosquitos.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

America’s Most Inaccessible National Park

If you think you have come to the end of the southernmost tip of the United States once you have reached Key West, think again. Seventy miles west out over the emerald waters of The Gulf of Mexico you will find The Dry Tortugas National Park. Fort Jefferson is the largest 19th Century coastal fort and is its central feature. Take a two hour plus boat ride from Key West or consider a sea plane. This is a unique adventure not to be easily forgotten.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Aspen in The High Sierras

Taken in The Inyo National Forest, California.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Lake Tenaka – Yosemite National Park

Taken in Yosemite National Park, California

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

 

Misty Dawn

Taken in Boynton Beach, Florida.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Rich Smukler Honored by 10th Annual Black and White Spider Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

BLACK AND WHITE SPIDER AWARDS HONORS PHOTOGRAPHER RICH SMUKLER FROM THE UNITED STATES.

LOS ANGELES (OCTOBER 18, 2014) – Photographer Rich Smukler of the United States was presented with the 10^th Annual Black and White Spider Awards Honorable Mention in the Category of Still Life for Conical Dance  at a prestigious Nomination and Winners PhotoShow webcast Saturday, November 21, 2015.

The live online gala was attended by over 10,000 photography fans around the globe who logged on to see the climax of the industry’s most important event for black and white photography.

The awards international Jury included captains of the industry from the industry’s biggest names and tastemakers including Bonhams, Random House, Aeroplastics Contemporary, Stockholm City Museum, Annenberg Foundation, Leo Burnett, FTM Art Advisory and Fratelli Alinari .

“It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from 7,686 entries from 74 countries that we received this year,” said Basil O’Brien, the awards creative director. Rich Smukler’s “Conical Dance” entered in The Still life  category is an exceptional image and represents black and white photography at its finest, and we’re pleased to present him with the title of Honorable Mention.” Jury member Diane Ruggie from Velocebella agency added, “The gallery of winners and runners up has true stopping power.

BLACK AND WHITE SPIDER AWARDS is the leading international award honoring excellence in black and white photography. This celebrated event shines a spotlight on the best professional and amateur photographers worldwide and honors the finest images with the highest achievements in black and white photography.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

Lake Sabrina

The Inyo National Forest covers parts of the eastern Sierra Nevada of California and The White Mountains of California and Nevada. The forest covers 1,903,381 acres and includes nine designated wilderness areas which protect over 800,000 acres. Lake Sabrina is breathtaking at dawn.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

25th All Florida Show selects Swamp’s Edge by Rich Smukler

Swamp’s Edge will be exhibited at this year’s 25th Annual All Florida Juried Art Show. This stunning Black and White archival print was captured in Delray Beach Florida and was first exhibited at The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art in Novato, California. It is currently showing at La Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca located in northwestern Tuscany.

Located in downtown Stuart, Florida, The Arts Council of Martin County has been a leader in the arts community since 1980. The exhibition’s Opening Reception & Awards is Friday, September 25, 2015, 5:30 to 7 PM and runs through Saturday, November 14, 2015 to be held at The Court House Cultural Center, 80 East Ocean Blvd., Stuart, Florida 34994 / 772.287.6676. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM; Saturday, 11 AM to 2 PM.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

The Photo Review selects Long Nights by Rich Smukler

The Photo Review is a critical journal of national scope and international readership. Publishing since 1976, the Photo Review covers photography events throughout the country and serves as a central resource for the Mid-Atlantic region. With incisive reviews, exciting portfolios, lively interviews, the latest in books and exhibitions.

This year’s Photo Review International Photography Competition was juried by Laurence Miller, Director, Laurence Miller Gallery in New York City. “Long Nights” is an archival pigment print, 22″ x 17″ and was captured at The Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. It will be included in The Photo review 2015 Competition issue as well as the Photo Review website and was chosen from more than 1,830 photographs and 430 photographers.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Rich Smukler Retrospective at La Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca

La Rondine Gallery is located in the beautiful Northern Tuscan village of Ponte a Serraglio in the commune of Bagni di Lucca. Since the Renaissance, this village has attracted artists of all disciplines to take refuge and rest in its thermal valley and spectacular vistas. Smukler had studied photography for seven summers at TPW (Tuscano Photographic Workshop) is San Quirico D’Orcia. He was blessed with the opportunity to study with such photographic luminaries as Arno Rafael Minkkinen (known world-wide and himself a student with Harry Callahan and Aaron Siskind), Sandro Santioli (lauded by many for his mastery of landscape photography), Bob Sasha (known for his photographic story telling and winner of a Pulitzer, Emmy and Webby) and David Alan Harvey (named Magazine Photographer of the Year by the National Press Photographers Association).

Though Lucca is to the north, Tuscany is like a second home to Smukler and represents a milestone in his career. For 2 special weeks, a solo show of his works will be on exhibit for townspeople  and visitors alike. The opening reception is Saturday, June 6th at 6 to 9 pm. The show will run until June 14, 2015. There is no charge for admission.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

A few thoughts for the New Year

I’d like to thank all of you who have been following my Blog over the years, amazingly since 2011!  It has been a labor of love and heart-warming to know that some of my meanderings are shared with you. I would encourage you to please exchange your thoughts and comments. I love expressing my experiences about photography: the technical aspects, the practical solutions to common problems, the artistry of my endeavors, etc. And I enjoy hearing what thoughts or concerns any of you might have.

I know that some of you are serious photographers, designers, fine art professionals, lawyers, realtors, and on and on. Photography is an endless journey which explores one’s personal vision pitted against an ever changing and expanding technology. To know your camera, your computer, your printer, and all that goes with this technology only serves to challenge the way you see and feel about life.

May you enjoy a healthy and amazing 2015. I hope to hear from you!

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

Mounts Botanical Gardens in West Palm Beach

Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden, Mounts displays tropical and subtropical plants from around the world, including plants native to Florida, exotic trees, tropical fruit, herbs, citrus, palms and more. For those of us who might be photographically minded, it provides an idyllic, serene environment with much to ponder and capture. The several images presented were shot with a dedicated Canon EOS Rebel T2i infrared camera, EFS 15-85mm lens and Manfrotto tripod.  This technique manifests an other-worldly effect and can be best shot around noon to fully take advantage of the sun’s infrared rays.

Directions: 531 North Military Trail West Palm Beach, Fl 33415

From Florida’s Turnpike: Take the Okeechobee Blvd. exit East to Military Trail, then go south on Military Trail 1 1/4 miles to Mounts Botanical Garden (1/4 mile south of Belevedere Rd.) on your right, across from Palm Beach International Airport).

From I-95 Take the Southern Blvd. exit west to Military Trail, then go north on Military Trail 1/2 mile to Mounts Botanical Garden (on your left, across from Palm Beach International Airport).

 Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

If you’ll be in Alexandria, Louisiana, see Rich Smukler’s works at The Alexandria Museum of Art

Alexandria Museum of Art’s 27th Annual September Competition Exhibition

Date: September 5 – November 22, 2014
Location: The Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, LA 71301

Rich Smukler, from Boca Raton, Florida,  will exhibit his stunning black and white piece. “Tea Time”  which was captured in Rhyolite, Nevada, about 120 miles (190 km) northwest of Las Vegas near the eastern edge of Death Valley. The town started in 1905 is response to the discovery of gold in the nearby hills. It is reported that the population rose to near 5,000. Unfortunately, by 1911 the mine closed and the town soon died out. Smukler’s works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. This piece was recently exhibited at The von Liebig Art Center in Naples, Florida.

Any questions concerning the exhibition can be directed to Megan Valentine, museum curator and registrar. phone: 318-443-3458 or email at megan@the museum.org

 

The Virginia Academy of Fine Arts introduces Conical Dance by Rich Smukler

The 2014 Virginia Academy of Fine Arts National Juried Photography Exhibition will be celebrating its opening reception Friday, September 5, from 5-8PM, with an informal talk at 5:30PM by Jeffrey Allison, this year’s distinguished juror. Mr. Allison has taught photography for over 25 years throughout Virginia and served on the staff of Abingdon’s William King Museum.

Unveiled for the first time will be Conical Dance, by Rich Smukler, a haunting black and white piece that is both multi-levelled and textural.

The Academy of Fine Arts
600 Main Street
Lynchburg, VA 24504
(434)528-3256

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

RICH SMUKLER EXHIBITS IN THE HEART OF TUSCANY

La Rondine Gallery is situated in Ponte a Serraglio in the relaxing commune of Bagni di Lucca. Since the Renaissance, this area has attracted artists of all disciplines to take refuge and rest in its thermal valley and spectacular vistas. The gallery is opposite the Lima River and close to a popular bar and restaurants. Rich Smukler’s solo exhibition will take place from 5/29/2015 thru 6/13/2015 (specific times for the Opening Reception will be forthcoming). Rest assured that the wine will be free-flowing and delicious!

Smukler has studied photography in Tuscany for seven summers at TPW (The Toscana Photographic Workshop) under such notable photographers as Sandro Santioli (known for his spectacluar Italian landscapes), David Allen Harvey (National Geographic and Magnum) and Arno Minkkinnen (Professor of Art at The University of Massachusetts). Having traveled extensively through Italy,  Smukler has grown to love the Italian way of life and its people.

“To have the opportunity to return to Tuscany and share my work in such a setting is truly a dream realized.”

Rich Smukler  currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

Where Does That Lush Ochre Pigment Come From?

Have you ever considered where the lush and vibrant colors and shades of ochre pigment come from? Situated in the Luberon, at the foot of the Monts de Vaucluse, the village of Roussillon provides the answer. Nestled in the heart of one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world, Roussillon is famous for its magnificent red cliffs and ochre quarries.

The red, yellow and brown shades of the earth form a striking contrast with the lush green pine-trees. The vivid blue of the Provençal sky and the exceptional quality of light make this a magical site. It is like an artist’s pallet, with the infinite combinations of colors varying from yellow to purple with all the shades of pink and red in-between.

The ochre façades of the houses are magnificent… shades vary subtly from light yellow to dark red, set off by the brightly painted shutters and doors. Numerous artists, naturally, have been seduced by Roussillon: Jean Cocteau, Carzou, Buffet, Ambrogiani... to name a few.

The images I’ve included in the current post print beautifully on canvas and archival-treated paper. But don’t pass up the opportunity to see the way these images pop out at you when printed on metal. They are magnificent and can be printed in any size and configuration that your spatial needs and creative desires call for.

 

Rich Smukler  currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)

Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts honors Rich Smukler

As recently announced, for the third consecutive year Rich Smukler will be exhibiting at The Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts’ annual juried exhibition. The opening reception and award presentations will be Thursday,  June 26th from 6PM to 8PM.  Artists whose works are exhibited for three shows are bestowed with the honor of elected member.

“Given the quality of the art in the CAFA exhibitions, I am extremely honored.”

 

 

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The Farmington Museum of Art Introduces Rich Smukler’s work “Cocoon”

 The Farmington Museum at Gateway Park (Farmington,  New Mexico) will present its annual National Juried Exhibition May 10, 2014 with an opening reception and presentation of awards from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturday evening May 17th. Prior to the reception, at 6:00 pm, Juror James Trigg will present a lecture. Mr. Trigg is a nationally acclaimed award-winning impressionist fine artist specializing in the magnificent vistas of the American Southwest.

Rich Smukler, from Boca Raton, Florida,  will exhibit Cocoon. This elegant abstract expressionistic piece both challenges and calms the soul. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally.

 

Farmington Museum – 3041 E. Main Strreet – Farmington NM 87402 – 505-599-1174 – http://www.farmingtonmuseum.org

See more of Rich Smukler’s work at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Bow Down

See Rich Smukler’s stunning piece “Bow Down” at The CAC (Contemporary Arts Center) in Las Vegas at their 25th Annual Juried Show. Bow Down is a dramatic 24″h x 20″w photo on aluminum taken of a proud and rusting ship found on the Miami River near downtown Miami, Florida. The show opens 4/3/2014 when award ceremonies will take place (6:00PM through 9:00PM) and runs through 4/25/2014. You can meet the artist at the Opening. The Center is located at 1217 S. Main Street in Las Vegas, Nevada. For inquiries, Joanne Russ is the gallery coordinator. email: info@lasvegascac.com phone: 702-496-0569 http://www.lasvegascac.org

See Rich Smukler’s work in Montreal

The Global Art League is an organization dedicated to furthering the careers of emerging artists worldwide. The International Exhibition of Emerging Artists will be held in Montreal from July 20th through to August 17th 2013.

Montreal is one of the most beautiful and exciting cities in the world and we have teamed up with the Montreal Art Centre, one of the cities greatest art exhibition venues to host the event. Montreal is within driving distance to over 100 million people and one can fly to this enchanting city within a day’s flight time from all of Canada, the United States and Europe.

This month long exhibition is geared to attract a wide array of visitors, from art lovers to art galleries, as well as both local and International art collectors. Our many participating sponsors are working with us to help celebrate art at its best, from our participating artists from all corners of the world.

There are special sessions, workshops, lectures and art presentations during the exhibitions days. The International Exhibition of Emerging Artists is a one of a kind event, bringing artists and art lovers together for an engaging and memorable experience.

Stonington Connecticut and The Lady Neptune Collide

It was a cold and dreary day in Stonington, but The Lady Neptune stood tall.

The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art introduces Rich Smukler’s SWAMP’S EDGE

Swamp’s Edge will be introduced at MARINMOCA / The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art

as part of the 2013 Summer National Juried Exhibition located at 500 Palm Drive, Novato, California.

Show opens: Saturday, June 01, 11am-4pm

Opening Reception: Saturday, June 01, 5-7pm

Show closes: Sunday, July 14 (4pm)

This image was taken in Delray Beach, Florida.

Filigree

It’s all about the light!

Outburst

Welcome to Spring!

Against the Traffic: Rhyolite, Nevada – The Ghost town

It’s been a long hard week in Death Valley and it is time to pack it in. I only introduced you to some of the many wonders that the area has to offer. It is really something that needs to be experienced personally and in your own way. On a great tip, I headed towards Rhyolite, Nevada on my way back to the airport in Las Vegas. I have an affection for architectural decay and this old town does not disappoint.

Located in the Bullfrog Hills in Nye County, Rhyolite is about 120 miles (190 km) northwest of Las Vegas near the eastern edge of Death Valley. The town started in 1905 is response to the discovery of gold in the nearby hills. It is reported that the population rose to near 5,000. Unfortunately, by 1911 the mine closed and the town soon died out.

With a few more shots in my pocket, it is time to head home. Thanks for joining me

Happy Shooting!

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

 

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Against the Traffic: Death Valley – Badwater Basin

It’s 4:30am.  I am completely alone in Badwater Basin, the lowest place in the western hemisphere. It seems like the dark side of the moon. Still bleary eyed, I slowly, contemplatively set up my tripod. A steady and warm breeze waltzes across the salt flats. I have never been to nor experienced anything remotely like this place. I quietly await the dawn. I notice someone apparently crawling from a sleeping bag several hundred yards off into the basin. I now notice their tripod already set and ready. I muse, a kindred spirit.

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In the parking area I noticed a painted stripe on the rock cliff indicating the sea level mark, 282 ft above me. Ironically, Mt. Whitney is the highest point in the contiguous 48 states, while Badwater is the lowest and the eighth-lowest spot in the world. Along with Salton Sea, south of Palm Springs (-227 feet), it makes the United States the only country to have two locations among the world’s lowest places. This gives you a rough idea how explosive this area was millions of years ago.

Walking out onto the salt flat you hear the crunch under your feet. Repeated freeze–thaw and evaporation cycles gradually push the thin salt crust into hexagonal honeycomb shapes. The accumulated salts of the surrounding basin make it undrinkable, thus giving it the name.

The sun starts to poke up. It goes fast and catches a sparkle from the zillions of salt crystals that surround you. My impression is that my camera’s sensor is able to receive and articulate this action better than the human eye. A friend of mine once referred to the area as “Badlight Basin”. I’m shooting with a Canon EOS 5D Mark II and select my 24-105mm lens.

Pay close attention to your exposure. As in shooting snowscapes, your camera can be fooled. There are several points of view as to how to handle this issue. I recommend Jim Zuckerman’s discussion in his book “Techniques of Natural Light Photography” if you are not comfortable with the subject.

If you go to Death Valley, DO NOT MISS THIS!!!

Happy Shooting!

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Against the Traffic: Death Valley – Dante’s Peak and Zabriske Point

It’s 4:30 AM and a few hearty photographers are starting to set up their tripods and await the dawn. It is quiet, very quiet. It is windy and cold. I struggle to keep the tripod steady. I’m already dreaming of my first cup of hot coffee. I attach my headlamp to see the way. I’m fearful that my lens or camera has seized up. Without my gloves this would be a fool’s errand. I panic, return to my car and reset. I do not want to miss the sunrise. It comes and goes so fast. Maybe 30 minutes tops, then it is over. This can be said for both Dante’s View and Zabriske Point, though Dante’s Point was much colder. I shoot them on consecutive days, but will discuss them each in today’s Post. They are both magnificent and should not be missed.

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Dante’s Peak, Death Valley is a viewpoint terrace at 1,669 m (5,475 feet) height, on the north side of Coffin Peak, along the crest of the Black Mountains, overlooking Death Valley. Dante’s View is about 25 km (15 miles) south of Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park. This spectacular view is named from Dante Alighieri, who wrote the Divina Commedia (Divine Comedy), in which there are described the nine circles of Hell, the seven terraces of Purgatory and the nine spheres of Paradise. For those of you who might be Star Wars junkies, it is a filming location in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.

Zabriskie Point is a part of Amargosa Range located in eastern Death Valley Valley and noted for its erosional landscape. It is composed of sediments from  which dried up 5 million years ago, long before Death Valley came into existence. This location was used to represent the surface of Mars in the film Robinson Crusoe on Mars.

The photographers line up on their selected vantage points and wait. An occasional test shot to see where the light is. Then it sneaks up slowly and BANG!!!! The cameras jump to life, like a bunch of fishermen waiting for a strike. And here it is. Have everything ready to go. No room for mistakes. The slowly awakening sun kisses the landscape, rises, and the majesty soon disappears, hidden for another day.

That’s it! Off to find some coffee and breakfast. I have a couple of afternoon locations in mind, so stick around.

Happy Shooting!

Rich Smukler

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Against the Traffic: Stovepipe Wells and Mesquite Flat Dunes

For the rest of the week we will be bunking at The Hotel at Stovepipe Wells, Death Valley. This is not The Four Seasons Hotel, make no mistake! In fact, the movie “Mad Max” comes to mind. The rooms are clean, large and extremely basic.  Wifi is spotty at best. Telephones are non-existent in the rooms and there is essentially no cell-phone coverage (calls must be made from the spare number of phone booths on site). There is a restaurant and bar. I will be polite about the food in the restaurant. The burgers and beer at the bar are just fine, especially if you want to shoot a game of 8-ball. Across the road is a general store and gas station where you can stock up on water, snacks, food and fuel. If you are truly looking for top-notch accommodations, consider The Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch Resort around 26 miles down the road. You will pay substantially for this luxury, however.

A brief thought on the issue of no phone or computer service: It can make you a little nervous at first, especially if you are addicted to these electronic toys, as I am. But after you get over the fear that the world will somehow come to an end if you are not tuned in, the world gets more serene and beautiful. You can see better. Your photography will soar, if you allow it to do so.

Just down the road is Mesquite Flat Dunes. These dunes are the best-known and easiest to visit in the national park. They are located in central Death Valley and accessed from Highway 190 or from the unpaved Sand Dunes Road. Although the highest dune rises only about 100 feet (compared to 680 feet at Eureka), the dunes actually cover a vast area and provide quite a different subject matter. Many first time visitors to Death Valley are surprised to find that it not covered with a sea of sand. Less than one percent of the desert is covered with dunes. It just so happens that the first two locations of our tour of Death Valley are duned areas. The benefit of Mesquite Flat over Eureka is its proximity to your room back at Stovepipe Wells. It allows you to make return visits to shoot based on your decisions over lighting, cloud-layer, etc. The remote location of Eureka Dunes pretty much kills off this flexibility, unless you are willing to set up camp. The suggestions I made about dune-shooting at Eureka in my prior post applies similarly to Mesquite.

Happy Shooting

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Against the Traffic: Eureka Dunes, Death Valley

It rises as the tallest dunes in California and perhaps North America.

The Eureka Dunes lie in the remote Eureka Valley, an enclosed basin at 3000 foot elevation located northwest of Death Valley. They rise nearly 700 feet and stretch 3 miles long and 1 mile wide. They are magnificent in their solitude and pristine beauty. There is nothing in this valley! There are no distant lights or towns, no gas stations or convenience stores. Civilization is pretty much left behind. You are on your own! Amazing!!!! The silence is palpable. Surrounding the dunes are the limestone walls of  The Last Chance Mountains rising another 4000 feet. Quite something to behold.

 You will be traveling on a gravel road in Eureka Valley (which connects to a road running from Big Pine to the Grapevine section of Death Valley). This is where it helps to have your high clearance vehicle. No off-roading is permitted anywhere in the park, but the going can be tough. It is probably a good idea to travel with someone who can offer a helping hand if need be.

 The parking area at the foot of the dunes is adjacent to a meager campsite with Spartan facilities. So, bring with you everything that you need for the day. And as a follow-up suggestion, when you get hiking into the dunes, bring everything that you need by way of your camera equipment, as the walking is tough and returning to your vehicle may not be the best physical or time-management choice under the circumstances.

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 A couple of tips: Bring and drink plenty of water; apply sun-block and wear protective gear; wear good sturdy boots or shoes; please consider the eye cup that I recommended in my previous post PREPARING FOR DEATH VALLEY (the glare makes it extremely hard to see what you are doing, otherwise); and if you are considering the use of more than one lens, I strongly recommend you attach that extra lens to a second camera body as this is the last place you want to switch lenses out. You might remember that in my post  THE ROAD FROM SAN QUIRICO TO PIENZA  I discussed the hazards of this exercise due to the drifting air particles and such in Tuscany. At least under those circumstances, you could make your way back to your vehicle. You probably won’t have the same luxury once on the dunes.

Be patient and wait for the light. Tonight we head to Stovepipe Wells where we will bunk for the rest of the week.

 Happy Shooting!

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Against the Traffic: Preparing for Death Valley

Getting ready for your trip into Death Valley is no simple matter. It requires careful thought and preparation.  Our first stop will be to Eureka Dunes, but we need to be on top of our game. There are plenty of good reasons. Death Valley is no simple jaunt to your neighbor’s garden party!

 

Death Valley is located in Eastern California and situated within the Mojave Desert. It is the lowest and driest area in North America. It holds the record for the highest reliably recorded air temperature on earth (134 °F (56.7 °C) at Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913). The previously-claimed world record air temperature, 136 °F (57.8 °C) was in Libya. Badwater Basin, which will be another of our stops, is the point of the lowest elevation in North America at 282 feet (86 m) below sea level. This point is only 84.6 miles (136.2 km) east-southeast of Mt. Whitney  (which was briefly mentioned in my previous post) and is the highest point in the contiguous United States with an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 m).

 

You may want to rent a high clearance vehicle. Be sure your rental car has a good spare tire. I know that when I first landed at the airport in Las Vegas and went to select my vehicle, I was so anxious to get on the road that I didn’t give as much thought to the process as I should have. Fortunately, my Jeep withstood the punishment meted out. The last 10 miles into Eureka Dunes are very rough; there is essentially no cell-phone service; no service stations for many many miles; you may drive for long stretches and never see another vehicle; you are pretty much on your own so give yourself the best chance to avoid chaos.

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Camera Equipment you will need includes but is not limited to: a backup camera body (always a good idea, but a must if you intend to use a second lens),  your camera manual, spare batteries, extra flash cards, a tripod and a polarizing filter. You may want a headlamp (exceptionally handy for your early morning shoots). I was introduced to a rubber eyepiece cup (only around $10) which clips over your LED and makes viewing under glare conditions so much more manageable. It has become an indispensible part of my travel pack.

 

Field Equipment suggested includes sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles (2 quarts minimum; you should drink about 1 gallon/day to avoid dehydration), any food or meds that you might need that day (I always pack several energy bars and fruit for snacks), and extra layers of clothing.  You will need a lightweight pack to hold your field gear. 

 

Clothing.  Typical temperatures will range from possibly below freezing (it can be as much as 25 degrees colder than the valley at 5500 feet in the early morning wind at Dante’s View, (another of our locations), to an average daily maximum of 72-80 F and an average daily minimum of 46-53 F in Death Valley in late February.  Dressing in layers will allow you to adjust to a wide range of conditions.  I suggest a fleece jacket (or two), a fleece vest, gloves (see prior post), a warm hat, a sun hat, lightweight, loose fitting long pants and long-sleeved shirt, light hiking boots and hiking socks, and a parka or windbreaker that can fit over all your layers. Long underwear for early morning and high altitudes is a good idea.

 

Some stray tips. The park service provides a helpful Morning Report which has the daily weather forecast, yesterday’s temperatures and current road conditions; Death Valley National Park’s seasonal newspaper will help you make the most of your visit, and if you are without prior knowledge of the area or are not travelling without someone familiar with Death Valley, you can enhance your experience of Death Valley by joining a ranger guided tour.

 

 

OK OK! I know you are anxious to get out there and burn some gigs, so saddle up pardner as we are pulling up to Eureka Dunes! Yeehah!

 

 

Happy Shooting!

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

 

Against the Traffic: Alabama Hills, California (the iconic western movie set)

The Alabama Hills are located just west of Lone Pine, California and easily accessible. Lest you think your humble reporter has just discovered them, they have been used for many years to represent the iconic American West. Nearly 400 films have been shot here. The list of famous directors and actors that have been a part of this ongoing set is just too long. Just to names a few: directors William Wyler, John Ford, George Stephens and William Wellman; and actors John Wayne, Bing Crosby, Gene Autry, Barbara Stanwyck and Jeff Bridges.

High Sierra with Humphrey Bogart, culminates with a shoot-out between Bogart’s character and the police at the foot of Mt. Whitney. The 1955 classic Bad Day at Badrock starring Spencer Tracy and Anne Francis was also filmed in and around the Lone Pine area. The first Lone Ranger ambush was filmed here, and it was here that Roy Rogers found Trigger. I could go on and on.

It is no accident that these hills have been chosen time and time again to produce so many films. Mother Nature has much to do with this. Geologically speaking:

      “The high and low temperatures of the Sierra, and the freezing, expanding, and thawing of rain and snowmelt created the “chiseled”   splintering of their granite. But down in the relatively moist and soil-covered region of the Alabamas, this process did not occur. Instead, the soil gradually eroded away, exposing the oddly-shaped piles of boulders that stand here today. There are two main types of rock exposed at Alabama Hills. One is an orange, drab weathered metamorphosed volcanic rock that is 150-200 million years old. The other type of rock exposed here is 82-85 million year old biotite monzogranite which weathers to potato-shaped large boulders, many of which stand on end due to spheroidal weathering acting on many nearly vertical joints in the rock.”

There are dozens of natural arches, always a sucker shot for those of us bitten by the camera bug, easily accessible by short hikes. Among the notable features of the area are: Mobius Arch, Lathe Arch, the Eye of Alabama and Whitney Portal Arch.

Typical of landscape photographic technique, I strongly recommend three things.

1.  The use of your tripod is critical! If you are not comfortable with its use, get comfortable! Practice with it before you go out to shoot, or when you have time to dawdle away. It can get finger-numbingly cold out there. That is NOT the time to figure which end is up.

2.     Bring gloves that you can shoot with. There are a variety of gloves that work well for photographers. I found that the gloves that work best for me allows you to free your finger tips while allowing you to access your camera’s controls. Shop around. As usual, B & H is a good place to start.

3.     Be prepared to shoot early and grab the glow that only the first light can give you. It doesn’t last long, so get out there, set up and get to work. The late afternoon also provides beautiful long and warm shadows. Sleep is merely an illusion.

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If you are staying in Lone Pine, you will get a kick out of the western motifs. Movie paraphernalia is everywhere in celebration of this fantastic location. Get some sleep, as tomorrow we head down to Death Valley to shoot Eureka Dunes!

 

Happy Shooting!

Rich Smukler

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Against the Traffic: From Lone Pine to Death Valley, California

Lone Pine, California is a sleepy little town. For me it was a great jumping off spot for my journey into Death Valley. Before your trip into the park, do not miss Alabama Hills which is the subject of my next post. But first, let’s discuss Lone Pine.

It is located 16 miles (26 km) south-southeast of Independence, California at an elevation of 3727 feet. The town is located in the Owens Valley near the Alabama Hills. Since Death Valley is unbearable in the dead of summer, February was selected for this photographic adventure. Lone Pine and most of the Owens Valley have a high desert climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. January temperatures range from the middle fifties to upper twenties. This information is critical in your preparation as you may be shooting in near freezing conditions, extremely warm conditions, early dawn and evening shoots as well extremely challenging high sun glare shoots, especially once you reach the dunes of Death Valley.

The town is small and quiet and provides ample affordable housing and restaurants. There are drugstores, markets, clothing stores, gas stations, etc. for provisions that might be needed.

KEEP YOUR GAS TANK FULL AS WHEN YOU DO GO INTO THE PARK THE AVAILABILITY OF GAS IS LIMITED AND EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE!

I landed in Las Vegas and drove across the Amargosa Valley, through Death Valley and eventually arrived in Lone Pine some 5 hours later (approximately 240 miles). May I recommend that you rent as sturdy a vehicle with as high a clearance as possible. Some of the roads you will be taking once you are exploring the park can be extremely challenging. There are some locations where you will be without cell-phone service and with no AAA or gas stations for miles. Make sure to carry plenty of drinking water and snacks. Clothing should be carried to provide for extremely varying temperatures. Sturdy boots or walking gear a must. Sun glasses, sun block, compass, road maps and full camera gear should be carefully considered.

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If you are coming from the Los Angeles area, the trip is about 4 hours north on US 395.

Before our venture into the Alabama Hills, there are a couple of sites in and around Lone Pine that you might want to consider. Mount Whitney is the highest summit in the contiguous United States with an elevation of  4,505 feet (4,421 m). I am contemplating this as a future photographic adventure. Though only about 23 miles on US 395 S or 16 miles on Whitney Portal Road, the trip will still take about 1 hour 15 minutes as the roads are rough. It is home to the Lone Pine Film Festival, each October. This small, high desert community has much to offer. I will discuss more about the film festival in conjunction with The Alabama Hills as that is where most of the films were shot.

Down the road from Lone Pine is the National Historic Site of Mazanar. The somber, skeletal remains of Manzanar remind us of a shameful chapter During World War II. “Tens of thousands of Japanese-Americans were forcefully deported to various relocation camps throughout the nation.” During my stay in Lone Pine I observed many Japanese-Americans who had come to pay their respects. I personally visited Mazanar with the thoughts of capturing some interesting images, but found the site unyielding for me on that day. Perhaps I wasn’t seeing particularly well. Sometimes it just happens that way.

The Sierra Nevadas loom in the background and I was able to capture “Sierra Nevadas” which was one of my favorite images on The Road to Death Valley.

Let’s get to bed early as  tomorrow we will beat the dawn on our way to The Alabama Hills.

 

Happy Shooting

Rich Smukler

http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com

Lone Pine to Death Valley: Contemplative Landscapes – A Photographic Journey

Lone Pine to Death Valley: Contemplative Landscapes – A Photographic Journey is now available at Blurb.com. “Contemplative Landscapes’ essence seeks to represent both the known and unknown aspects of reality while combining our sense of intuition and perception.” Many of the these images are also available at Rich’s  website for your enjoyment.

         “To quiet one’s mind in a personal pursuit of fine photography in an unending and personally rewarding experience. To chase this goal in the magical backdrop  of Lone Pine and Death Valley, California is magical.”

See BLUES by Rich Smukler at Ocean Wave Gallery

See BLUES currently exhibited at The Ocean Wave Gallery located at 2757 East Oakland Park Blvd., Ft Lauderdale, FL 33306 USA (Tel. 954 – 817 – 8870 Blues is an expressionistic representation of a beach scene on Venice beach, California. It has been exhibited at The Pleiades Gallery in New York City, The Michael Joeseph Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and others. For further information about Blues or additional works of Rich Smukler, go to his website at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. Ocean Wave Gallery Hours: 11am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday Closed Sunday & Monday Open other times by appointment.

See BLISS / Best of Photography 2012

Bliss is an iconic black and white image taken from Ravello, Italy overlooking the Amalfi Coast. This piece was a Finalist in Photography Forum Magazine/ Best of Photography 2012 (Serbin Communications: 2012). For more about the wonders of Ravello go to Rich Smukler’s Blog at richsmuklerphotography.wordpress.com entitled Against the Traffic: Ravello, Italy (or where to toss my ashes).