Friday Kinsey packed us up for our move to Jackson Hole. It had rained the night before and I could hear her outside grumbling about getting wet. You may recall we ended up in a back in space upon arrival in West Yellowstone. The reason Kinsey likes the pull through is because you can just pull up to the RV, hook up your toad and be off. There's a lot more jiggering around with the back in arrangement. She's constantly looking at me and asking "Why aren't you giving me a hand here?" Well, duh, I'm a dog!
Showing posts with label photography. Show all posts
Showing posts with label photography. Show all posts
01 November 2014
15 December 2011
PHOTOGRAPHY IS A LOT LIKE LIFE
I am by nature a ponderer. Winters in my little patch, here in Montana, are the perfect time to catch up on my ruminations. Often the days are so cold it behooves me not to go wandering alone in the forest lest I run a cropper and end up a crispy critter. Lakota, of course, is ever by my side but I’m afraid he might not be able drag me all the way home. I do carry a cell phone but it often has no service. I also carry a GPS gizmo called Spot. Seriously, who wants to hang around in 10 to 20 degree weather waiting to get rescued? Not me. Pondering before the fire has much more allure.
This week I was thinking how much photography is like life itself. We all know that photographs are unique moments in time. As a photographer I know that you don’t ever say, “Oh, that’s cool. I’ll get it next time.” Without living to regret it. The trouble is there is no exact next time. Often there is no next time at all because the scene no longer exists. Even though I know better I have done it a hundred times much to my chagrin. My mother used to say, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” As usual my mother was right.
What got me to thinking about these things were a couple of photos I came across whilst I was working in my galleries this week. The first image “Kootenai Cabin” is of an old settlers cabin that I found on the trail that takes you down to Kootenai Falls. Fabulous falls if you’ve not seen them. I’ve got photos .... somewhere.
As I was admiring the image I suddenly realized how lucky I was to have it because that particular scene no longer exists. The power company has since come through and made what was once a lovely hiking trail into a road. None of the foreground exists today. That foreground adds immeasurably to the mood and quality of the image.
This next image “River Wreck” is of an old jalopy that somehow fell into the Tobacco River and got lodged in the grass along the banks.
This old guy was wedged into that grassy bank for a number of years. But, last winter was so big, the runoff so huge and the rivers so high this wreck just got swept away never to be seen again. It most likely now rests at the bottom of Lake Koocanusa. I am partial to old things and I am glad I have this photo because no one will ever get another chance to capture it.
This last image “Winter Camouflage” is of a little gal I came to know as Floppy. She was a blacktail deer who came to visit for several winters. Because many of the same deer return each year to winter some I have given names. Floppy got her name because one of her ear tips was broken and flopped over. Floppy is not here this year and I suspect I shall not have the privilege of her company again but I will always have this extraordinary moment of her existence to remember her by.
What does this have to do with life? I think it demonstrates how we must not take a single moment for granted. Moments are unique and priceless opportunities. We must make the most of each one as it comes. It’s about not putting off until tomorrow what you can do today because tomorrow may never come and no moment ever repeats itself in exactly the same way.
I know I will always miss photos because I was too lazy, too impatient, too distracted. It will be the same in my life. I will miss making the most of many wonderful moments. The best I can say for myself is that I am aware and I will endeavor to make the most of as many moments I possibly can, with or without the camera.
The story of our lives is the sum of all our moments. By paying attention and being present for as many as we can we will be able to live a much more interesting tale. Missed moments are missed opportunities. Capture as many as you can.
©Kinsey Barnard
This week I was thinking how much photography is like life itself. We all know that photographs are unique moments in time. As a photographer I know that you don’t ever say, “Oh, that’s cool. I’ll get it next time.” Without living to regret it. The trouble is there is no exact next time. Often there is no next time at all because the scene no longer exists. Even though I know better I have done it a hundred times much to my chagrin. My mother used to say, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” As usual my mother was right.
What got me to thinking about these things were a couple of photos I came across whilst I was working in my galleries this week. The first image “Kootenai Cabin” is of an old settlers cabin that I found on the trail that takes you down to Kootenai Falls. Fabulous falls if you’ve not seen them. I’ve got photos .... somewhere.
As I was admiring the image I suddenly realized how lucky I was to have it because that particular scene no longer exists. The power company has since come through and made what was once a lovely hiking trail into a road. None of the foreground exists today. That foreground adds immeasurably to the mood and quality of the image.
This next image “River Wreck” is of an old jalopy that somehow fell into the Tobacco River and got lodged in the grass along the banks.
This old guy was wedged into that grassy bank for a number of years. But, last winter was so big, the runoff so huge and the rivers so high this wreck just got swept away never to be seen again. It most likely now rests at the bottom of Lake Koocanusa. I am partial to old things and I am glad I have this photo because no one will ever get another chance to capture it.
This last image “Winter Camouflage” is of a little gal I came to know as Floppy. She was a blacktail deer who came to visit for several winters. Because many of the same deer return each year to winter some I have given names. Floppy got her name because one of her ear tips was broken and flopped over. Floppy is not here this year and I suspect I shall not have the privilege of her company again but I will always have this extraordinary moment of her existence to remember her by.
What does this have to do with life? I think it demonstrates how we must not take a single moment for granted. Moments are unique and priceless opportunities. We must make the most of each one as it comes. It’s about not putting off until tomorrow what you can do today because tomorrow may never come and no moment ever repeats itself in exactly the same way.
I know I will always miss photos because I was too lazy, too impatient, too distracted. It will be the same in my life. I will miss making the most of many wonderful moments. The best I can say for myself is that I am aware and I will endeavor to make the most of as many moments I possibly can, with or without the camera.
The story of our lives is the sum of all our moments. By paying attention and being present for as many as we can we will be able to live a much more interesting tale. Missed moments are missed opportunities. Capture as many as you can.
©Kinsey Barnard
07 September 2011
Photographing Sunsets and Clouds
The other evening, just for fun, I photographed some sunsets and clouds as seen from my home. I sometimes remark how I am blessed with, what I consider, extraordinary sunsets and other celestial delights here on the mountain.
On those occasions when I do the other person usually exclaims me too! But, I think not. Light and it's angle are a photographers boon and bane. There is something quite unique about the lighting here and I believe it has to do with the elevation. The light and clouds seem to intersect with my position in such a way as to produce truly amazing celestial landscapes. The camera does not always do justice to the things that I see but from the images below you can get the jist.
©Kinsey Barnard
And then, of course there was the moon.
On those occasions when I do the other person usually exclaims me too! But, I think not. Light and it's angle are a photographers boon and bane. There is something quite unique about the lighting here and I believe it has to do with the elevation. The light and clouds seem to intersect with my position in such a way as to produce truly amazing celestial landscapes. The camera does not always do justice to the things that I see but from the images below you can get the jist.
©Kinsey Barnard
And then, of course there was the moon.
17 January 2011
Twitter: Why I like it
As followers at Facebook and Twitter already know, baby it’s been cold outside with lots of snow. Then, out of nowhere, a warm front moved in and a massive melt ensued. To paraphrase Forest Gump, the weather in Montana is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.
Over the week I have added new images to the North American Deer, Skyscapes, Lakota Sunrise galleries and one new limited edition entitled “Yellowstone Lily Pads”. I shot Lily Pads on my junket to Yellowstone last fall.
Alrighty then, on to the topic of this post.
I’ve been playing around with the social media sites Twitter and Facebook and have decided that I really like Twitter. At first I thought Twitter was terribly superficial. But, I’ve found a way to make it more fruitful and now I find the site quite productive.
When not engaged in my photography I think I have a form of ADD and Twitter is perfect for those with such a malfunction. Twitter is a very fast paced place. One communicates via things called Tweets. You are allowed only 140 characters, not words just characters, spaces and punctuation are counted. Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet “Brevity is the soul of wit”. I hereby coin the phrase “Brevity is the soul of Twit”.
I don’t think it’s the place to form deep relationships. Some people have over 100,000 followers so you know that read every single Tweet, not. A large number of people are just chasing some get rich on the Internet scheme. Many I think are getting paid for every time someone clicks on a particular link. In many ways the place reminds me of a 21st Century pyramid scheme. Our current economic situation is certainly ripe for any angle that promises income pouring right out of your computer. I’ve been around for a while and most of these schemes generally only generate much income for the one selling the scheme.
As of this writing I am approaching 6,000 followers 95% of whom I follow back. I can assure you that I can’t really follow that many people nor can they me. I couldn’t do it if I sat at my computer 24/7. 6,000 sounds like a lot but at Twitter I’m only in the minor leagues. As I mentioned some Tweeters have over 100,000 followers. Many people have their accounts completely computerized. They follow, un-follow and send messages all computer-generated. If you’re one of those just trying to get clicks I think that probably works out just great being on autopilot. But, I really like to connect with people I find interesting. And the business I'm depends greatly on forming relationships. For that one must be personally proactive.
With all that said, why do I like Twitter? Ironically, I like it because I have found some of the most interesting and helpful people I’ve ever met anywhere on the web. I don’t think I would have met them any other way. I’ve have also learned valuable new things about SEO (Search Engine Optimization), found great resources for marketing my photography and promoting my blog. I've also connected with people I just find interesting and want to hang out with.
Like most things in life Twitter is a numbers game. I would guess that I actually truly connect with around 1% of my followers. How do I do it? Well, the old fashioned way. I work at it. There is no way to cheat the Tweet. Every morning I spend an hour or so going through new followers and looking at the bios and Tweets of those that I think I might relate too. Then I follow back and/or send a message to those that I would like to get to know. If we are in accord we usually arrange to connect on Facebook. Facebook is much better for making real connections. For one thing, at Facebook you aren’t limited to 140 characters, it’s a much more “social” media.
Twitter isn’t for everyone, I am quite sure of that. But, I quite like it and would recommend giving it a try if you haven’t already. For a richer experience I recommend sending personalized DM’s (direct messages) to new followers that catch your eye and start making “lists” early on. Lists can really help you keep track of those Tweets you are most interested in following.
Here are a couple of interesting pie charts comparing Twitter and Facebook demographics. Statistically, I probably should not be even fiddling with this because the 55 plus group is the smallest user group of both media comprising only 9%. I guess us old doggies aren't swift enough? Well, I like to hang with younger people anyway so I'm doin' it!
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
Over the week I have added new images to the North American Deer, Skyscapes, Lakota Sunrise galleries and one new limited edition entitled “Yellowstone Lily Pads”. I shot Lily Pads on my junket to Yellowstone last fall.
 |
| Koty Manning the Polaris Ranger |
 |
| Koty Ponders the Ice |
Alrighty then, on to the topic of this post.
I’ve been playing around with the social media sites Twitter and Facebook and have decided that I really like Twitter. At first I thought Twitter was terribly superficial. But, I’ve found a way to make it more fruitful and now I find the site quite productive.
When not engaged in my photography I think I have a form of ADD and Twitter is perfect for those with such a malfunction. Twitter is a very fast paced place. One communicates via things called Tweets. You are allowed only 140 characters, not words just characters, spaces and punctuation are counted. Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet “Brevity is the soul of wit”. I hereby coin the phrase “Brevity is the soul of Twit”.
I don’t think it’s the place to form deep relationships. Some people have over 100,000 followers so you know that read every single Tweet, not. A large number of people are just chasing some get rich on the Internet scheme. Many I think are getting paid for every time someone clicks on a particular link. In many ways the place reminds me of a 21st Century pyramid scheme. Our current economic situation is certainly ripe for any angle that promises income pouring right out of your computer. I’ve been around for a while and most of these schemes generally only generate much income for the one selling the scheme.
As of this writing I am approaching 6,000 followers 95% of whom I follow back. I can assure you that I can’t really follow that many people nor can they me. I couldn’t do it if I sat at my computer 24/7. 6,000 sounds like a lot but at Twitter I’m only in the minor leagues. As I mentioned some Tweeters have over 100,000 followers. Many people have their accounts completely computerized. They follow, un-follow and send messages all computer-generated. If you’re one of those just trying to get clicks I think that probably works out just great being on autopilot. But, I really like to connect with people I find interesting. And the business I'm depends greatly on forming relationships. For that one must be personally proactive.
With all that said, why do I like Twitter? Ironically, I like it because I have found some of the most interesting and helpful people I’ve ever met anywhere on the web. I don’t think I would have met them any other way. I’ve have also learned valuable new things about SEO (Search Engine Optimization), found great resources for marketing my photography and promoting my blog. I've also connected with people I just find interesting and want to hang out with.
Like most things in life Twitter is a numbers game. I would guess that I actually truly connect with around 1% of my followers. How do I do it? Well, the old fashioned way. I work at it. There is no way to cheat the Tweet. Every morning I spend an hour or so going through new followers and looking at the bios and Tweets of those that I think I might relate too. Then I follow back and/or send a message to those that I would like to get to know. If we are in accord we usually arrange to connect on Facebook. Facebook is much better for making real connections. For one thing, at Facebook you aren’t limited to 140 characters, it’s a much more “social” media.
Twitter isn’t for everyone, I am quite sure of that. But, I quite like it and would recommend giving it a try if you haven’t already. For a richer experience I recommend sending personalized DM’s (direct messages) to new followers that catch your eye and start making “lists” early on. Lists can really help you keep track of those Tweets you are most interested in following.
Here are a couple of interesting pie charts comparing Twitter and Facebook demographics. Statistically, I probably should not be even fiddling with this because the 55 plus group is the smallest user group of both media comprising only 9%. I guess us old doggies aren't swift enough? Well, I like to hang with younger people anyway so I'm doin' it!
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
19 November 2010
Quantitative Easing "QE" Explained.
I realize this is once again off the subject of photography. But, I think everyone needs to watch and listen to this video if you are in any doubt as to what exactly Quantitative Easing is and what it means to our country and future lifestyle.
As many of you know I am a former investment banker and not entirely out to lunch when it comes to economics and finance. We are in some serious trouble people. As hard and awful as it may be to believe, this economic downturn is far from over. Unless I miss my guess we haven't even seen the worst of it. I know it's no fun to look at truth when the truth is ugly but there is no other way to prepare yourself. They say the truth will set you free. It will also knock you flat if you try to deny it either by will or ignorance. Please watch this video. It explains QE in layman's terms.
Meanwhile, here at the ranch it's snowing and in the twenties. They say that we will get into negative territory by Monday. I am toiling away on a new gallery of Jasper National Park. Many of the images have never been made public before. I hope to get it finished in the next few days. Here's one of my favorites so far.
Don't forget the holiday sale going on at my Outdoor Photography site. Just enter this code: KOTY BEAR CARES 2010 in the coupon code box for a full 15% discount.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
As many of you know I am a former investment banker and not entirely out to lunch when it comes to economics and finance. We are in some serious trouble people. As hard and awful as it may be to believe, this economic downturn is far from over. Unless I miss my guess we haven't even seen the worst of it. I know it's no fun to look at truth when the truth is ugly but there is no other way to prepare yourself. They say the truth will set you free. It will also knock you flat if you try to deny it either by will or ignorance. Please watch this video. It explains QE in layman's terms.
Meanwhile, here at the ranch it's snowing and in the twenties. They say that we will get into negative territory by Monday. I am toiling away on a new gallery of Jasper National Park. Many of the images have never been made public before. I hope to get it finished in the next few days. Here's one of my favorites so far.
Don't forget the holiday sale going on at my Outdoor Photography site. Just enter this code: KOTY BEAR CARES 2010 in the coupon code box for a full 15% discount.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
18 October 2010
Jardine, Montana - Ghost Town
This fall we headed down to Gardiner which is situated at the north entrance to Yellowstone. We got snowed out last year so I decided we would give it a go again this year. We waited until after Labor Day thinking the crowds would have thinned some. That may have been the case years ago but not anymore. Now there are so many Baby Boomers thinking to do the same thing the place was packed. We were lucky to get a slot for Clementine at the RV park.
Koty and I are manic hikers wherever we go. When we go to national parks we are constantly looking for someplace to hike outside the park because Koty is not welcome. We are quite fond of Canadian parks. Canada welcomes dogs on a leash.
One of the first things we do when we get somewhere is look for hiking nearby but outside the park. Fortunately, Yellowstone is surrounded by national forest. I spied a dead end road that went up the mountain behind above the RV park. The map showed a town called Jardine.
It's a dirt and gravel road about six miles in but well worth the drive. On the drive in we came across this little landscape I thought was quite picturesque.
I don't know exactly was this is or what it was used for but I'm guessing it might have been some kind of pump house.
We kept on until we got to Jardine. I didn't realize it when we started out that Jardine is a listed ghost town in Montana. Although, there are quite a few very live inhabitants. It looks like some folks who work down in Gardiner live up here away from the tourist hub bub.
The mine is fenced off so you can't really get close to it. The above photo was the best I could do.
The old mine office seemed to still be used but it was closed and no one was around.
But, we were looking for hiking not ghost towns so we went to the end of the road and hit the jackpot. We found the Eagle Creek trailhead which is a popular outfitter entry into the Gallatin National Forest. If you head up Eagle Creek Trail you'll see a bridge .......
If you cross that bridge and turn right you'll find a bunch of old buildings you can explore and check out.
I really like exploring out buildings that are not part of a park where you can just poke around on your own.
Now, I did say we came here for the hiking but there was an impediment to my going very far. I had sprained my ankle back in Bozeman and I was just gimping along. First we started up the Eagle Creek trail but it got so muddy we had to turn back cuz I wasn't about to slog through mud on a bad foot. There is another trail on the other side of the bridge that heads into the mountains and was just fine. It too clearly gets a lot of horse and mule traffic. Actually, I like trails that packers use because they are nice and packed.
We also discovered a gated compound that looked like it was mostly inhabited by Native Americans. I thought this tent, with the skull gracing the entry, was kind of interesting. I have no idea what it is used for. Maybe some one lives in it. A pack of dogs came running at us as we approached. I took this photo and we skedaddled.
The point of this story is that if you find yourself in Gardiner, Montana and would like to do something a little off the beaten path I would recommend a trip up to Jardine. It's a great place to to hike, explore and experience little Montana history.
Be sure and check out The Liberated Photographer.com
©Kinsey Barnard
Koty and I are manic hikers wherever we go. When we go to national parks we are constantly looking for someplace to hike outside the park because Koty is not welcome. We are quite fond of Canadian parks. Canada welcomes dogs on a leash.
One of the first things we do when we get somewhere is look for hiking nearby but outside the park. Fortunately, Yellowstone is surrounded by national forest. I spied a dead end road that went up the mountain behind above the RV park. The map showed a town called Jardine.
It's a dirt and gravel road about six miles in but well worth the drive. On the drive in we came across this little landscape I thought was quite picturesque.
I don't know exactly was this is or what it was used for but I'm guessing it might have been some kind of pump house.
We kept on until we got to Jardine. I didn't realize it when we started out that Jardine is a listed ghost town in Montana. Although, there are quite a few very live inhabitants. It looks like some folks who work down in Gardiner live up here away from the tourist hub bub.
 |
| Jardine Gold Mine |
The mine is fenced off so you can't really get close to it. The above photo was the best I could do.
 | |
| Jardine Mine Office |
The old mine office seemed to still be used but it was closed and no one was around.
But, we were looking for hiking not ghost towns so we went to the end of the road and hit the jackpot. We found the Eagle Creek trailhead which is a popular outfitter entry into the Gallatin National Forest. If you head up Eagle Creek Trail you'll see a bridge .......
 |
| Eagle Creek Bridge |
If you cross that bridge and turn right you'll find a bunch of old buildings you can explore and check out.
I really like exploring out buildings that are not part of a park where you can just poke around on your own.
Now, I did say we came here for the hiking but there was an impediment to my going very far. I had sprained my ankle back in Bozeman and I was just gimping along. First we started up the Eagle Creek trail but it got so muddy we had to turn back cuz I wasn't about to slog through mud on a bad foot. There is another trail on the other side of the bridge that heads into the mountains and was just fine. It too clearly gets a lot of horse and mule traffic. Actually, I like trails that packers use because they are nice and packed.
We also discovered a gated compound that looked like it was mostly inhabited by Native Americans. I thought this tent, with the skull gracing the entry, was kind of interesting. I have no idea what it is used for. Maybe some one lives in it. A pack of dogs came running at us as we approached. I took this photo and we skedaddled.
The point of this story is that if you find yourself in Gardiner, Montana and would like to do something a little off the beaten path I would recommend a trip up to Jardine. It's a great place to to hike, explore and experience little Montana history.
 |
Be sure and check out The Liberated Photographer.com
©Kinsey Barnard
01 September 2010
Reflecting Windows
We've been busier than one armed paper hangers here at the ranch. Trying to accomplish so many projects before the doing season is done. I haven't been able to go afield very much. This week it's a fencing project and that should just about finish me for the year.
The other morning I had to go down and open the gate for the fencers and when I came back up the hill I noticed something unusual which hadn't noticed before. What I saw were the most beautiful skyscapes reflected in my windows. As anyone familiar with my work knows, I am nutz for reflections.
What I think is so cool is that these images look like multiple exposure photos. I think that effect comes from the dual panes. You can bet your sweet bippy one has the best insulated windows they can get living in this country.
The next image is of my bedroom window.
And, this next one is the livingroom.
OK, so once again, I'm probably the only one who thinks these images are interesting but that's the great thing about this blogging stuff, you can do what ever the heck you want! Since I don't get paid for all the time and effort I put into this thing I might as well have a good time. And, believe me, I do! :)
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
The other morning I had to go down and open the gate for the fencers and when I came back up the hill I noticed something unusual which hadn't noticed before. What I saw were the most beautiful skyscapes reflected in my windows. As anyone familiar with my work knows, I am nutz for reflections.
What I think is so cool is that these images look like multiple exposure photos. I think that effect comes from the dual panes. You can bet your sweet bippy one has the best insulated windows they can get living in this country.
The next image is of my bedroom window.
And, this next one is the livingroom.
OK, so once again, I'm probably the only one who thinks these images are interesting but that's the great thing about this blogging stuff, you can do what ever the heck you want! Since I don't get paid for all the time and effort I put into this thing I might as well have a good time. And, believe me, I do! :)
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
19 May 2010
INTERGALACTIC-LIMITED EDITION
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This photograph is a classic example of the worlds within worlds that one can find in nature and the beauty to be found in the most common things.
To my eye it looks likes a fantasmic scene from outer space when, in reality, it is nothing more than a close up shot of a river boulder. This particular boulder rests in Grave Creek, Montana.
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"INTERGALACTIC"
To my eye it looks likes a fantasmic scene from outer space when, in reality, it is nothing more than a close up shot of a river boulder. This particular boulder rests in Grave Creek, Montana.
16 May 2010
Morro Bay Harbor - Giant Cedars Montana
I've decided to try my hand at a remodeling project. I've never tried one around here and it's turning out to be much more than I had bargained for. In the "other world" I just called a decorator and told them "Make it so!" Where I live now one is pretty much on their own. You can hire the work done but the rest is up to you. And since Home Depot and Lowes are 75 miles away a small bathroom project is turning into a major undertaking. It also doesn't help much that I'm not very domesticated.
All this to say I haven't been getting out much with the old magic box. I have been doing a little housekeeping as regards my image files. It's a chore I dread but really needs to be done. I am coming up with some very nice stuff that has never seen the light of day, that's always exciting.
This first image is of Morro Bay Harbor in California. In the winter of 2008 I was asked to speak at my alma mater, Cal Poly-SLO, so I decided to make a winter of it. In good old Clementine, I photographed the west coast from southern Washington to Avila Beach. We took nearly six months to do it and it was one of the best photographic experiences of my life. Photographing the coast in winter is simply the best. It's cold. It's gray. It's wet. It's blustery. It's simply wonderful! The ocean is at it's most dramatic and until you get down to the Bay Area you pretty much have the place to yourself.
I stayed in Morro Bay for about a week and it was a photographer's dream. This first image is of the harbor at Morro Bay. It was taken as the sun was setting. The lighting was just right to give the boats interest and the colors great depth.
Morro Bay Harbor by Kinsey Barnard
Back in Montana, in the summer of 2008, we took a trip over to Bonner's Ferry, Sandpoint and environs. We made sort of a loop trip traveling over on Hwy 2 and returning via 200 along the Clark Fork River and up 56 back to 2 along the Bull River. Along 56 you will find the Ross Creek Nature Trail and the Giant Cedars and believe me they are giant! If you like cedars you need to see these. They are magnificent! In the photo you can see the little nature trail which meanders along a babbling brook.
Giant Cedars Montana by Kinsey Barnard
Personally, I am a little dippy about cedars. I just think they are such elegant trees. A week or so ago I was over in the West Kootenai and shot this photo of a cedar branch. I think it captures just how unique is the foliage. It looks like a delicate lace to me.
Cedar Frond by Kinsey Barnard
Isn't Mother Nature grand?!
©Kinsey Barnard Phtography
All this to say I haven't been getting out much with the old magic box. I have been doing a little housekeeping as regards my image files. It's a chore I dread but really needs to be done. I am coming up with some very nice stuff that has never seen the light of day, that's always exciting.
This first image is of Morro Bay Harbor in California. In the winter of 2008 I was asked to speak at my alma mater, Cal Poly-SLO, so I decided to make a winter of it. In good old Clementine, I photographed the west coast from southern Washington to Avila Beach. We took nearly six months to do it and it was one of the best photographic experiences of my life. Photographing the coast in winter is simply the best. It's cold. It's gray. It's wet. It's blustery. It's simply wonderful! The ocean is at it's most dramatic and until you get down to the Bay Area you pretty much have the place to yourself.
I stayed in Morro Bay for about a week and it was a photographer's dream. This first image is of the harbor at Morro Bay. It was taken as the sun was setting. The lighting was just right to give the boats interest and the colors great depth.
Morro Bay Harbor by Kinsey Barnard
Back in Montana, in the summer of 2008, we took a trip over to Bonner's Ferry, Sandpoint and environs. We made sort of a loop trip traveling over on Hwy 2 and returning via 200 along the Clark Fork River and up 56 back to 2 along the Bull River. Along 56 you will find the Ross Creek Nature Trail and the Giant Cedars and believe me they are giant! If you like cedars you need to see these. They are magnificent! In the photo you can see the little nature trail which meanders along a babbling brook.
Giant Cedars Montana by Kinsey Barnard
Personally, I am a little dippy about cedars. I just think they are such elegant trees. A week or so ago I was over in the West Kootenai and shot this photo of a cedar branch. I think it captures just how unique is the foliage. It looks like a delicate lace to me.
Cedar Frond by Kinsey Barnard
Isn't Mother Nature grand?!
©Kinsey Barnard Phtography
08 May 2010
Big Creek Montana - 05-06-10
Strange stuff going on with this blog site. For some reason the latest post doesn't show up just the title and you have to click on "read more". Have no idea why this is maybe it's a format change. I dunno.
Koty and I took a wander over to Big Creek in the West Kootenai on the west side of Lake Koocanusa. Big Creek drains into the Koocanusa from the Purcells.
The area is a known hang out for grizzlies and black bears. We didn't see any bear signs let alone bears.
The creek was running pretty good the following are three shots that may give you an idea of what it was looking like.
Big Creek 05-06-10
The main thing that distinguishes the west side forest from the east side is the presence of cedars. I find cedars to be extremely elegant trees and delight in the fact that I have three at my ranch.
Cedar Frond by Kinsey Barnard
I also found this boulder with cedar needles lying on it that I thought was a work of art. I don't think a landscape designer could do better.
Forest Decoration by Kinsey Barnard
As always, Koty had a great time. I spent much of my time trying to drag him away form digging for squirrels. Siberians are diggers by nature and when they find something to dig for their determination is without equal.
This last shot is of Big Creek in slow motion. I always like these shots. I think it gives one a different perception.
So there you have it. The creeks, they are a rising.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
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Koty and I took a wander over to Big Creek in the West Kootenai on the west side of Lake Koocanusa. Big Creek drains into the Koocanusa from the Purcells.
Lake Koocanusa 05-06-10
The area is a known hang out for grizzlies and black bears. We didn't see any bear signs let alone bears.
The creek was running pretty good the following are three shots that may give you an idea of what it was looking like.
Big Creek 05-06-10
Big Creek 05-06-10
Big Creek 05-06-10
The main thing that distinguishes the west side forest from the east side is the presence of cedars. I find cedars to be extremely elegant trees and delight in the fact that I have three at my ranch.
Cedar Frond by Kinsey Barnard
I also found this boulder with cedar needles lying on it that I thought was a work of art. I don't think a landscape designer could do better.
Forest Decoration by Kinsey Barnard
As always, Koty had a great time. I spent much of my time trying to drag him away form digging for squirrels. Siberians are diggers by nature and when they find something to dig for their determination is without equal.
Koty with Head in a Hole
This last shot is of Big Creek in slow motion. I always like these shots. I think it gives one a different perception.
Big Creek 05-06-10
So there you have it. The creeks, they are a rising.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
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07 May 2010
02 May 2010
Kootenay Trout Hatchery
I took a little wander up into B.C. and stopped by the Kootenay Trout Hatchery. The drive up was really lovely as we are still getting snow and the Kootenay Rockies were gleaming with fresh fallen snow and pastures are turning into green velvet carpets.
I always stop in at the hatchery any time I'm in the area because it's a very nice little campus and there's no telling what you might see.
The Kootenay Trout Hatchery raises approximately 2 million trout, kokanee salmon, char and white sturgeon annually and provides research facilities for biologists. Lakes throughout British Columbia are stocked with these rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout to enhance recreational fishing opportunities. White sturgeon are also raised here as part of conservation programs for the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers.
At the entrance to the hatchery there is a moat with trout swimming in it. Some of them are REALLY big. This was the first time I've been that the water wasn't clear, algae was floating on the surface. Clearly temps are rising.
Inside the facility is chock full of displays and information. The photo below is of young brook trout in a display aquarium. The trout were lovely but the fascinating thing, to me, about this photo is that it was taken practically in the dark without a flash. Oh, the marvels of digital technology. The camera I was using has a max ISO of 3200 which is what made this image possible.
Your tour is self guided which I like. The main room in the facility is what they call the "trough" room. It's kind of like a trout nursery, each of these troughs has thousands of tiny fish swarming in them.
But, the main reason I always stop in is because you never know what wildlife you may find on the grounds outside. There is a lovely pond on the west side of the facility that form time to time will have a variety of birds. This particular day all there were only a few mallards paddling around but I have seen osprey, heron, eagles and hawks. I was there smack dab in the middle of the day which isn't prime time for viewing or photographing wildlife. This because I spent the morning over at Kikiomun Provinvcial Park. I'm still working on the images I collected at the park. Still, I always like watching the ducks. I just never tire of observing wildlife.
The grounds are lovely even if for just a stroll and a picnic and there are some very nice aspen standing about. I was able to make this image of lichen on aspen which struck me as extraordinary.
Lichen on Aspen by Kinsey Barnard
If you're in the area and want to check it out, the hatchery is located just a few miles off highway 3 on Wardner/Fort Steele Road bewteen Fernie and Cranbrook. It's open 365 days a year eight to four.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoyed this blog please feel free to share.
Kootenay RockiesI always stop in at the hatchery any time I'm in the area because it's a very nice little campus and there's no telling what you might see.
The Kootenay Trout Hatchery raises approximately 2 million trout, kokanee salmon, char and white sturgeon annually and provides research facilities for biologists. Lakes throughout British Columbia are stocked with these rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout to enhance recreational fishing opportunities. White sturgeon are also raised here as part of conservation programs for the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers.
At the entrance to the hatchery there is a moat with trout swimming in it. Some of them are REALLY big. This was the first time I've been that the water wasn't clear, algae was floating on the surface. Clearly temps are rising.
Inside the facility is chock full of displays and information. The photo below is of young brook trout in a display aquarium. The trout were lovely but the fascinating thing, to me, about this photo is that it was taken practically in the dark without a flash. Oh, the marvels of digital technology. The camera I was using has a max ISO of 3200 which is what made this image possible.
Your tour is self guided which I like. The main room in the facility is what they call the "trough" room. It's kind of like a trout nursery, each of these troughs has thousands of tiny fish swarming in them.
But, the main reason I always stop in is because you never know what wildlife you may find on the grounds outside. There is a lovely pond on the west side of the facility that form time to time will have a variety of birds. This particular day all there were only a few mallards paddling around but I have seen osprey, heron, eagles and hawks. I was there smack dab in the middle of the day which isn't prime time for viewing or photographing wildlife. This because I spent the morning over at Kikiomun Provinvcial Park. I'm still working on the images I collected at the park. Still, I always like watching the ducks. I just never tire of observing wildlife.
Mallard in Flight
The grounds are lovely even if for just a stroll and a picnic and there are some very nice aspen standing about. I was able to make this image of lichen on aspen which struck me as extraordinary.
Lichen on Aspen by Kinsey Barnard
If you're in the area and want to check it out, the hatchery is located just a few miles off highway 3 on Wardner/Fort Steele Road bewteen Fernie and Cranbrook. It's open 365 days a year eight to four.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoyed this blog please feel free to share.
29 April 2010
Spring Has Come Unsprung!
For the past week we have been having periodic rain showers. It was the "Spring showers bring May flowers" kind of thing. But, this morning it was just plain cold and snowing. It's typical rocky mountain weather and typical spring weather but it still takes me by surprise. Even the whitetail looked a little startled by the whole thing.
I always feel sorry for the deer because this cold and rainy weather will most likely continue on into May and that is when they drop their fawns. It seems like a cruel trick to serve these tiny newborns up into this cold wet world straight from the warm nest they have been gestating in. I often wonder how they survive, sometimes they don't.
But, the weather is mighty fickle around these parts. And maybe it will be warm and sunny when the wee ones come. I sure hope so.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to pass it along.
I always feel sorry for the deer because this cold and rainy weather will most likely continue on into May and that is when they drop their fawns. It seems like a cruel trick to serve these tiny newborns up into this cold wet world straight from the warm nest they have been gestating in. I often wonder how they survive, sometimes they don't.
But, the weather is mighty fickle around these parts. And maybe it will be warm and sunny when the wee ones come. I sure hope so.
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to pass it along.
28 April 2010
Rainy Days and Rainbows 4-27-10
I had to make a business trip to the "big" city. I was lugging along some of my artwork so I had to leave Koty home. By way of an apology I bot him a new toy one of those ones with a squawk box in it, big mistake. He nearly drove me nutz but he did wear himself out, eventually.
It rained most all of the day but at exactly 8:49 pm there was a break in the weather and this happened.
Rainbow Over Dancing Deer by Kinsey Barnard
Honest to Pete I have never seen such a vibrant rainbow in my life.
It had an enormous arc that I could not get entirely in the frame.
It must have lasted ten minutes. I don't think my photos really do the real thing justice but there it is.
After the rainbow show the sunset was pretty tame but still colorful and lovely. There was a lot more ray action in the real deal.
April Sunset by Kinsey Barnard
Oh, what a dull boring place in which I live. It's a rotten job but somebody has to do it! ;)
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to share.
It rained most all of the day but at exactly 8:49 pm there was a break in the weather and this happened.
Rainbow Over Dancing Deer by Kinsey Barnard
Honest to Pete I have never seen such a vibrant rainbow in my life.
It had an enormous arc that I could not get entirely in the frame.
It must have lasted ten minutes. I don't think my photos really do the real thing justice but there it is.
After the rainbow show the sunset was pretty tame but still colorful and lovely. There was a lot more ray action in the real deal.
April Sunset by Kinsey Barnard
Oh, what a dull boring place in which I live. It's a rotten job but somebody has to do it! ;)
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to share.
27 April 2010
A Walk in the Woods 4-27-10
Today was truly glorious, sunny with great billowy clouds and around 65 degrees. My idea of heaven.
Been trying to get things put together here at the ranch. Lots to do in the spring. Hooked up the solar gate and got the old lawn tractor operational. It takes me about four and a half hours to mow my "lawn". Chopped wood for an hour and decided it was time to play.
Off to the woods we went. Had my second wildflower siting. But, I don't know what it is. I find that when I try to identify flowers from other people's photos they look nothing like mine. If anyone knows what these are please chime in.
Sure is handy that I live in the Kootanai National Forest because all I have to do to get there is walk out my front gate. It never ceases to amaze me how you can walk the same path thousands of times and still come up with new things to observe. Today I found two interesting gentlemen. This first one was embedded in a burl. To me the design looks like a forest troll. You have to get your face away from your computer screen to really be able to see it.
Wood Troll by Kinsey Barnard
The second fellow I found was in some Ponderosa bark. He looks like a one-eyed jack to me. Not too handsome, very grumpy but interesting nonetheless. He looks like he's having a bad day maybe. Again, lean back.
One Eyed Jack by Kinsey Barnard
This last photo is another of my rock designs. Make that Nature's rock designs. This one is kind of ethereal. It looks to me as though it could have been taken whilst skin diving i.e. underwater. I'm sure it was underwater at one time.
Far and Away by Kinsey Barnard
This last image a friend sent to me. Goodness but does it make me nostalgic. Seems the prices of things have gone up ten times whilst the quality is one tenth. Man what I wouldn't give for a 1950's diner hamburger and chocolate shake!
Well, that sums up this day. It was another winner!
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to share.
Been trying to get things put together here at the ranch. Lots to do in the spring. Hooked up the solar gate and got the old lawn tractor operational. It takes me about four and a half hours to mow my "lawn". Chopped wood for an hour and decided it was time to play.
Off to the woods we went. Had my second wildflower siting. But, I don't know what it is. I find that when I try to identify flowers from other people's photos they look nothing like mine. If anyone knows what these are please chime in.
Sure is handy that I live in the Kootanai National Forest because all I have to do to get there is walk out my front gate. It never ceases to amaze me how you can walk the same path thousands of times and still come up with new things to observe. Today I found two interesting gentlemen. This first one was embedded in a burl. To me the design looks like a forest troll. You have to get your face away from your computer screen to really be able to see it.
Wood Troll by Kinsey Barnard
The second fellow I found was in some Ponderosa bark. He looks like a one-eyed jack to me. Not too handsome, very grumpy but interesting nonetheless. He looks like he's having a bad day maybe. Again, lean back.
One Eyed Jack by Kinsey Barnard
This last photo is another of my rock designs. Make that Nature's rock designs. This one is kind of ethereal. It looks to me as though it could have been taken whilst skin diving i.e. underwater. I'm sure it was underwater at one time.
Far and Away by Kinsey Barnard
This last image a friend sent to me. Goodness but does it make me nostalgic. Seems the prices of things have gone up ten times whilst the quality is one tenth. Man what I wouldn't give for a 1950's diner hamburger and chocolate shake!
Well, that sums up this day. It was another winner!
©Kinsey Barnard Photography
If you enjoy this blog please feel free to share.
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