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).

ANCIENT BRISTLECONE PINE FOREST

Home of the oldest living things on earth, The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is located about an hour east of Bishop, California in The White Mountains (elevations between 9,000 to 11,000 feet) and accessible via The Schulman Grove Visitor Center. These magnificent trees can range between well over 2,000 to 4,773 years old! Think about it! This was taken in October and the temperature was below freezing. If you plan to go, dress accordingly.

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).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 21 – Finale)

Our last day is spent in Florence, a magnificent city. Be prepared for the crowds, however. It has been a wonderful journey and I hope you enjoyed some of the stops along the way. A special thanks to Michael Cartwright and Shona Nunan of The Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca for their guidance and support. Ciao to Bella Italia until we return.

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).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 20)

For those who have the time, the rolling landscape of the Val d’Orcia is interlaced with ancient trails that connect many of the villages and towns in the area, passing through scenic, contemplative countryside. These walking paths have been around forever, the way people traveled before the advent of the automobile. Take your time and breathe this in. There are walking paths seemingly everywhere, hidden from the frenetic traveler.

Tomorrow is our last day of this wonderful voyage. We are off to Florence.

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).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day18)

From the hills outside the center of Bagno Vignoni with Rocca d’Orcia in the background.

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).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 16)

Both San Quirico and Pienza are magical, ancient Tuscan towns. They are connected by an extraordinarily exciting road that  strums the true sounds of Tuscany. For years I have driven the 6.25 miles of this amazing highway and never tire of it.

SP146 / Strada Provinciale di Chianciano ribbons through the Tuscan countryside and is the stuff that Lamborghini and Ferrari must have had in mind. Go as the sun rises or as the sun is stretching its long shadows from the west. Any time of year will reveal the many facets of this magnificent countryside. There is one lane in each direction with multiple winding curves that provide a bonanza of sight lines. At a decent speed the entire ride is about 15 minutes. Downshifting into one of the many hairpins brings a broad smile to your face.

For a little extra delight, as you approach Pienza, look to your left for a sign to Santa Anna Comprena. This back road will take you to the 15^th Century Monastery where Director Anthony Minghella shot many scenes from his movie The English Patient starring Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fienes. The setting is both serene and haunting.

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)

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

Outburst

Welcome to Spring!

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).

Against the Traffic: Ravello, Italy (or where to toss my ashes)

Ravello is a sleepy town and commune located above the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy. It is in the province of Salerno, Campania.  And though I keep an open mind, this is where I’d prefer to have my ashes distributed when that sad day comes.  The views are magical, but I must warn you that the curving roads along the coast to Ravello are so treacherous that you might want to bring your urn with you in case of your premature demise. When renting a vehicle in Europe you are most likely to receive a standard transmission as opposed to an automatic. If you aren’t familiar with a stick shift, I suggest you select an alternative option. Unfortunately, hiring a driver could be extremely expensive. Automatic transmissions are typically rare to find or are far more pricey, so be forewarned and prepared.

When we finally reached Ravello, it was a pleasure to park the car at the hotel and not drive it again until our departure. Cabs and walking were much better choices. With the roads being so narrow and challenging, and with few places to safely stop and shoot, you’d be wasting much of your precious time. As an aside, if you like a taste of Limoncillo (a popular Italian lemon liquer) produced and readily found in Ravello,  you might find yet another reason to stay from behind the wheel!

The town has a storied historical background. It was founded in the 5th century as a shelter place against the barbarian invasions which marked the end of the Western Roman Empire. “The town has served as a destination for artists, musicians, and writers, including Richard Wagner, Edvard Grieg, M.C. Escher, Giovanni Boccaccio, Virginia Woolf, Greta Garbo, Gore Vidal, Andre Gide, Joan Miro, Truman Capote, …” and many others. This provides an insight to the creative juices that are percolated in these ancient surroundings.

I list just some of the easily found sites, all of which provide an amazing photographic opportunity. If you enjoy shooting landscapes of the surrounding mountainsides, seascapes of the Amalfi Coast below, the architecture of the ancient town structures, lush garden shots or images of the locals and tourists enjoying the area, they are all here.

Bring sturdy walking shoes and Happy Shooting!

Overview

• “In 1996, Ravello was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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• The Duomo (Cathedral) of Ravello: the central nave contains the “Pulpit of the Gospels”, on the right of the central nave, created in 1272 by Nicolò di Bartolomeo from Foggia.
• Villa Rufolo (1270), built by Nicola Rufolo, one of the richest Patricians of Ravello, on a ledge and it has become a famous attraction for thousands of visitors. The villa was mentioned by Giovanni Boccaccio in his Decameron and it is the place where Richard Wagner in 1880 was inspired for the stage design of his opera Parsifal.
• Villa Cimbrone, famous for its “Terrace of the Infinite”.
• The church of San Giovanni del Toro (Saint John of the Bull) dating to before the year 1000. The church contains the Bove pulpit, dateable to 1200–1230, incorporated as mosaic fragments Raqqa bacini.
• The small church of Santa Maria a Gradillo (11th century). It has a basilica plan, with three apses.
• Sanctuary of Sts. Cosmas and Damian (14th century)
• Two famous gardens: Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo.
• Amalfi Coast: the amalfi coast, or Costiera Amalfitana in Italian, is a stretch of coastline on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula of Italy, extending from Positano in the west to Vietri sul Mare in the east”