A MYSTERY THAT INCLUDES A PHOTOGRAPHER

My dear friend, Kathy Strong, recently published her first mystery novel - “The ‘57 Chevy: A Cam Donovan Mystery.” She previously authored seven popular travel guidebooks among her numerous other credits. I was surprised to learn I was the inspiration for “one of the most wonderful characters” in the book. To my knowledge its the first time this has happened.

It is possible I may be somewhat biased but I recommend Strongly (pun intended) you read the book - available at Amazon and fine book stores.

EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN

I noticed the following headline in a photo magazine a few days ago:

"Instagram is dead for photographers" and TikTok's future is uncertain – so people are flocking back to an old faithful platform

Facebook certainly isn’t a place for photographers so it appears that leaves just Flickr. It’s been a few years but I will give it a try again.

OCTOBER 2024 - WHAT A MONTH!

Quite a month. First, the unexpected treat of the Northern Lights at Valles Caldera National Preserve…three times! Second, the Galactic Center like I have never seen. It was so impressive I went out every night for a week. And then, if good things come in 3’s, I was fortunate to photograph my first comet. I can’t imagine a better month of astrophotography!

THE NORTHERN (NEW MEXICO) LIGHTS

I thought the light show on Monday was special and then on Thursday, October 10, we were dazzled with an encore presentation. JUST SPECTACULAR!!!

INTERRUPTED

Well, those dancing lights showed up again this week and interrupted our workshop. Seems we all forgot about the Milky Way for a while.

Valles Caldera National Preserve truly is a special place and its International Dark Sky certification is well deserved.

PHOTOS NOW AT VALLE GRANDE BOOKSTORE

I am pleased to announce my photographs can now be purchased at both locations of the Valle Grande Bookstore in Valles Caldera National Preserve.

STUNNED, I WAS

After finishing our night sky worship on August 30, two of us set up for some star shots. We had no idea we would be treated to the aurora borealis in the mountains of New Mexico.

WELCOME TO THE LAND OF ENCHANTMENT

My work has been included in books, magazines, galleries, exhibitions and other shows but this is a first. If I am fortunate, people passing through the Albuquerque International Sunport (airport) will take time to enjoy the exhibit of some of my photographs. Thanks to the city of Albuquerque for inviting me to be part of welcoming folks to the city and state. It is indeed an honor. The display will continue until July 31.

Upcoming Show

My photo “A Leg Up” was juried into the New Mexico Art League’s upcoming show Body Language. The show runs from Jul 18 - August 17, 2024. A reception will be held August 3 from 4:00-6:00 PM. Check the League’s website for details.

Two Down

The first two of our night photography workshops at Valles Caldera National Preserve are in the books. First, I must thank Ranger Lauren of the National Park Service and the Caldera’s administration and staff who make the workshops possible. Second, to a great group of participants who are the reason we do this, you are the best!

We have been amazed at the popularity of the program. The June 7 event filled up in 1:08 MINUTES! If you did not get in either of these workshops, you have three more opportunities. Another full moon night in July and a dark sky event in both August and September. Check the Caldera’s website for more info and to sign up.

Da Cranes...Da Cranes

Although Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge continues to have very few birds this year, there is good news for photographers.

Ladd Gordon Waterfowl Complex just up the road is hosting large numbers of sandhill cranes and many snow geese. Management added a pond in 2023 near the entrance of the complex which makes it easy to photograph the birds in and around water. The resident deer and hawks stay near by, too.

The complex is off I-25 at exit 175 (between Socorro and Belen).

A Special Night

It was my honor to teach the first-ever night photography workshop for the National Park Service at Valles Caldera National Preserve last Saturday. Despite the sub-freezing temperatures it was a great event. We are already discussing new workshops for 2024.

4th Time is a Charm

The judge selected my image Morning Flight first place in the contest “Starts with the Letter B.” I am at a loss for words other than thank you.

Kozlowski's Trading Post on the Santa Fe Trail

On May 20, I will be leading a night sky photography workshop for the National Park Service at Pecos National Historical Park. This time will be at the newly-opened Kozlowski’s Trading Post Museum at the entrance to Forked Lightning Ranch. If you are interested, please contact me.

This One is Special

This win was special because I am getting back to my black & white roots from high school. First place in Landscapes in Black and White with my image “Mono Wave”.

Thanks to All!

I just learned I won the People’s Choice Award at “The Art of Healing” show in Albuquerque. Thanks to all who voted for me. A very nice honor.