24 Hours in Estes Park
Several months ago, my companion and I boarded a plane bound for Denver, with a subsequent excursion to the picturesque town of Estes Park to attend the nuptials of a dear friend of hers. The wedding was held at the enchanting Della Terra Mountain Château, perched amidst the towering peaks of the Rockies and conveniently located near the entrance to the magnificent Rocky Mountain National Park.
Although my stay was largely occupied by professional obligations, on the final Saturday of our visit, we managed to carve out sufficient time to explore the park. As we embarked on our journey back to Seattle, with the last flight of the day as our destination, we were blessed with a bountiful window of leisure to roam the park's roads and appreciate its stunning vistas. This was my maiden visit to RMNP, and the drive into the park was simply breathtaking, transporting me to a realm of grandeur, with the magnificent mountain peaks and endless expanses of wilderness enveloping me in an aura of serenity. The seclusion of the park on that day only added to its captivating beauty, as the only sounds that echoed in the vast stillness were the whispers of the wind and the gentle rustling of the trees. Annie and I are already scheming to make a return trip in May, when we will be in Colorado for another concert at Red Rocks.
For the duration of the trip, I relied solely on my trusty Fujifilm X100v to document our adventures, shooting everything handheld and processing the images with Adobe Lightroom Classic and Photoshop, along with the Nik Collection and Lumenzia.
Kalaloch Beach - Overnight Trip
Very much glamping for the night. Flat and paved parking. Even a picnic bench!
Walking along the beach. Olympic National Park.
It’s been years since I had last been to Kalaloch beach. The last time I had been there was in 2016 with Annie. Heading to the Washington coast is something we never get tired of. I don’t think anyone can ever get enough of it, to be honest. There is something about the Washington beaches that always leave you wanting more.
Recently, Annie and I purchased a rooftop tent from Free Spirit Recreation. We’ve only been able to get out once before in it for a quick trip. The occasion arose once again where we could take off for a quick overnight trip. Though it had been slightly planned as we knew we might be able to get away. The planning I put into it was to pull a steak from the freezer, defrost it and add a little salt and pepper onto it 24 hours before. If you don’t know me, I love to cook.
We loaded up the truck and headed out to the beach. Taking a few back ways on our way there. I always enjoy slowing down and taking time to meander through the small towns on the way to wherever we are going.
Driftwood.
After a couple of hours of driving we made it out to Kalaloch and it was a beautiful and overcast day on the beach. The wind wasn’t too bad until later in the afternoon. We were able to walk a few miles on the beach before it really picked up on our hike back to the campsite. The tide was coming in while we were out on the northern edge of Kalaloch. Wandering around and watching the waves crash over the rocks is a thing of beauty.
Annie, wandering the beach and going to look at the tide pools.
After a few hours around at camp, the winds and rain came barreling into the coast. We knew this was going to happen but I did not believe it would rain as hard as I thought it would. I should have known better. The rest of our evening was spent up in the RTT having a couple of beers, playing war and 10,000 while the wind and rain battered the tent. I slept through most of all the storm, I guess Annie didn’t. Needless to say, I got a great night of sleep.🤷♂️
The next morning we packed up and headed off towards Port Angeles on a mission. Mainly myself because I was really craving Frugals. As we were leaving, the clouds were beginning to break and the morning light was starting to shine through. I can’t wait for more sunny days and more days on the beach.
Until next time, Kalaoch…
Fujifilm X100v first impressions
Recently I was feeling so out of touch with photography. I have sold off most of my kit and now only run a Nikon Z7 with two lenses and a X100v. I wanted to move away from using my smartphone when out and about. I was constantly watching KEH.com for a X100v to pop up. Finally, after a few months one popped up for sale. I jumped and bought it right away.
Port Orchard Marina - First walk with the X100v.
First Impressions and Ergonomics
My first impressions with using the X100v was more of a learning curve. I have been using Nikon bodies for as long as I can remember. Most of that time using a D4 and D610 with a battery grip. Switching to something that much smaller was shock almost. I struggled at first to use it. The ergonomics felt so wrong and shooting felt awkward. That being said, after a few days of walking around with it and using it non-stop, everything was becoming second nature. The dials and adjustments are so easy and intuitive to use when on the fly.
Desceding to Lake Cushman.
Image Quality
Shooting with the X100v was a new experience in a way. I had become so used to the IBIS in my Z7 that I never really thought about it much. I was also at this point used to using the EVF all the time. Switching to using the rangefinder viewpoint of the X100v was a truly enjoyable experience.
First off, the first photos I made with my X100v were well… Bad. I wasn’t used to it. Getting into the swing of things and using it changed that.
The image quality is honestly absolutely lovely. I love the files I can get out of this camera. I use the Fujifilm emulations that are built into the camera for 99% of the photos that I am taking with it. There are very few at this point that I don’t use them on. The only ones I won’t use the emulations on is food. That I like to edit myself and work to create my vision with it. The emulations are beautiful. Using this daily, I do a lot less editing after they import. I only add just a few minor tweaks to pull your eye where I want you to look. Dynamic range of the X100v at lower ISO is great. There is plenty of detail even in the darkest shadows. I can’t speak to the high ISO performance at this point, since I haven’t used it above 1000 ISO yet.
Browns Creek - Olympic National Forest
Final Thoughts
Have you lost touch? Are you unenthusiastic about photography? Want to ditch the smartphone?
Then maybe the X100v is for you. I fell in love with photography again thanks to this camera. I felt joy and happiness again while shooting. Getting out the Z7 just felt like doing work for clients and not something that was for me and for the reason I love photography. The feeling of just going for a walk while carrying the X100v has been refreshing. It’s made me look forward to getting out and carrying something small and light with me. It feels like photography again.
All photos on here have been made using Fujifilm emulations profiles and edited to taste in Adobe Lightroom.
The last two were shot with no profile and edited in Nik Silver Efex Pro 2.
Change - Seattle, Washington
To the alley - Seattle, Washington.
To see more photos taken with my Fujifilm X100v head over to my Daily Life gallery.
Into The Buckhorn Wilderness
Day one: Tubal Cain Trailhead to Buckhorn Lake.
The start of the trip was a late one. Annie had to open at work. She was up at 3:50 AM. After she was off and back home, she was able to switch a shift around, and then we were off after that!
Arriving at the trailhead late meant the parking would be a little cramped when we would pull in. It didn’t help that anyone at the trailhead knew how to park, at all.
We loaded the last few things into our packs, and we were off into the forest. The first few miles was a gradual climb up through wild rhododendrons that were just about in full bloom. As you make your way up, you have a trail to your left that takes you into Tull Canyon and the Tubal Cain Mine. Tull Canyon is the almost final resting place of an SB-17, a search and rescue variant of a B-17. The SB-17 collided with a mountain ridge en route to a search and rescue operation. A few flight crew members did not survive the impact and slide down into the valley. After the wreck, the fuselage was salvaged and is now one of the two remaining B-17’s that are airworthy.
We made our way across copper creek and began the real part of the climb. The trail switchbacks it was through the forest and spits you out on an almost wide open hill side. That’s when you get your first real glimpse of Buckhorn Mountain. You’ll never forget that first glance. As we worked our way to the cutoff for Buckhorn Lake we slowed down and soaked up the sun and views. At 5.6 miles, you will reach the cut-off to the lake. Two creeks and a bit more climbing later, you follow a steep and rooted trail to the lake.
Buckhorn Lake was the highest I have ever seen it. We dropped our packs, set up camp and reluctantly dunked ourselves into the lake. It was a shock to the system. Rinsing off sweat had never been so difficult. After that, we rushed back to change and hang up the sweaty clothes we washed off. Then it was time to make dinner, have a nip of whiskey, and watch the sunset from our tent. That night was a beautiful one. Camped right on the lake, Buckhorn Mountain towering above and the rush of the waterfall that feeds the lake.
Buckhorn Lake to Iron Peak
It was a clear morning on the lake. We woke, made coffee, and broke down camp. The original plan was to hike from Buckhorn Lake to the Charlia Lakes. Once again, were back, zigzagging through the trees. After a quick mile and half, you break from the trees and fully witness the majesty that is the Olympics. You have a 360 degree view of the mountains. It’s one of those views you never tire of. Now that we had broken from the trees, the fun begins again. The snow was still covering much of the trail in the higher elevation. Instead of switch backing your way up, it’s a straight climb up the snow and hillside to try and avoid most of the snow. Once you make your way past, you’ll reach the saddle below Iron Mountain. You can see for miles. It was when we were reach the top of the saddle, we realized that reach Charlia lakes was out of the question. Seeing how much snow was still covering the area to the south of Marmot pass, we decided to have a shorter day, and camp on the saddle. That’s okay though. From our tent we could see Seattle, Mount Rainier, Adams, and St Helen’s.
The next morning was an uneventful one. We packed up and headed straight back down to the car. There were swarms of day hikers and the weekend was approaching. We thought it would be best for us to just pick up camp and head back home. We did make it back to the car in just over 2 hours.
Spring Has Sprung
It felt like just the other day we had below freezing temperatures and snow. Now every day is almost 60 degrees, and we have 12 hours of daylight!
To me, it’s a welcome sign. I am so ready to get my backpacking gear out and head into the mountains to get away from it all.
Recently we got away for the day to wander around the forest. I made a few photographs that day. Two of which I was very fond of.
The warm morning light of spring was falling through the forest. I have missed this sort of light in the forest. It feels like it has been ages since I have been out in it.
This last one is a three image panorama of Ranger Hole. This was the first time I have ever stopped in here over the years. Usually I am passing it early in the morning heading to a secret spot I found years ago. Probably the best spot for sunrise in the Olympics is hidden nearby here. I’ll show you that later..
In other news I am working on launching a print store on here. The Prints navigation will now take you to the storefront where a few different sets of photographs are available. I will be adding more and more to it as time goes on.
Snowmageddon 2021
Snowmageddon
2021
The rare occurrence of snow has struck once again in the lowlands of Western Washington. The chaos that ensues after the snow is always incredible to me. I grew up playing in the snow as well as living in Spokane and the Silver Valley for a couple of years. The snow is one of my favorite things.
Snow falling on the water in Port Orchard.
Though, seeing the snow in the lowlands of Western Washington is always a different feeling to me. Growing up here we never would see much at all. Maybe once or twice a year if we were lucky. During this round of snow about a foot of snow fell in town which was pretty incredible to wake up to.
Evening stroll
Evening stroll part 2
Waterman Pier
Later on, in the evening the storm started to roll in with full force. The winds were absolutely howling. The was causing white-out conditions and snowdrifts were forming in front of your eyes (okay not really that bad but you get the idea).
The next morning after the brunt of the storm had passed we woke up to almost a foot of snow! Of course, we got up early and headed out for a quick drive around town before all the folks who can’t drive or shouldn’t drive in the snow were out. The town looked gorgeous with the fresh blanket of snow over it. After getting out for the short jaunt around town it was time to head back and enjoy the snow day at home.
My drone was almost hit by a flock pigeons..
The day called for Ranch Water (tequila, lime juice, and Topo Chico), and my first attempt at making the traditional Spanish dish; Paella. It was my first attempt but definitely not my last one. I plan on trying it again next week after we finish eating this batch. This round of it was slightly improvised since I had most but not all of the ingredients I would need. Next time will be a smaller batch of seafood paella.
The first attempt of paella.
Until next time everyone!
PS: I still have some limited edition metal prints over in my shop!
Winter photography - My favorite photos from this winter so far..
This winter has sure been off to a slow start. It’s been mild, warm, and rainy. Though we have had some good snow days here and there. A couple of fun days of skiing, a few snow hikes/walks, and plenty of ripping around in the Wolverine side by side.
North Fork Coeur d’Alene River, Idaho. DJI Mavic Air.
I’ve only gotten out a few times to photograph this winter but I have thoroughly enjoyed the few times I have. My favorite day was a spontaneous trip up to Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park. It was a beautiful bluebird day. The sun was bright and the few clouds that were there would rip across the landscape.
Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, Washington. Nikon Z7 + CaptureOne and Nik Silver Efex.
Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, Washington. Nikon Z7 + CaptureOne and Nik Silver Efex.
Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, Washington. Nikon Z7 + CaptureOne and Nik Silver Efex and cyanotype toning.
Last but not least, a set of portraits of my lovely girlfriend, Annie.
And, one more thing after that.. I just listed a few signed metal prints from a gallery show in Spokane. Head over to the print section on my website and pick one up for yourself. They are a one-off set of photographs.
Ice - A New Collection of Photographs
I’ve been sitting on these photographs for almost a year now. I had taken them back in November of last year. Right before it started snowing in the mountains. I was able to get up the lake with minimal gear. AKA I didn’t need snowshoes just yet.
This set of photos was one that I kept coming back to over the months since I shot them. I made countless versions of them and nothing just ever felt quite right to me. As I made those different versions I slowly kept making them a little darker and muted each time. I was listening to one of my favorite albums each time I made this darker series of edits. The album has an overall dark and heavy feeling throughout. Continually listening to the album over and over is what brought me to this final set of photographs.
Camera: Nikon Z7, Tokina 100mm f/2.8 Macro. Post Processing: Capture One Pro + Adobe Photoshop.
They escaped the weight of darkness
to forge a path into the marrow of the spirit
They chose to drown in a deeper vacancy
an emptiness that quells the null
a pool for the forgotten
They escaped the weight of darkness
to drown in another...
To Drown - Agalloch
Hazy beach days
As you all know the world is basically on fire. It’s been hard to sit back and watch all the wildfires destroy the forests across North America. My brother and his wife have been stuck inside with the smoke from the Oregon wildfires. We all decided it was time to try and get away from the smoke as much as we could. We all decided to head out to the Washington coast to escape it a little bit. The air quality still wasn’t the best, but the sea air felt so refreshing in comparison to what we had all been in. It was a few days of quality family time, flying kites, running on the beach, and driving on the beach with my love.
Luckily as I am writing this the rain has finally come back to the Pacific North West. It’s been long overdue and much needed.
Stay safe out there.
All photos shot on Nikon Z7 + FTZ Adapter + Nikon 50mm 1.8G. Post processing CaptureOne Pro.
Road Trip - Iowa
It’s about 73 degrees out and a humidity percentage of around 100000% on the last full day here in Iowa. It’s been a few days of absolutely gorgeous weather and sunsets here in the Midwest. I was able to go out and see the Buddy Holly memorial, the SECOND highest point in Iowa, fly the drone around, see some beautiful country and learn a little more about life on the farm. If you’ve never been to the Midwest it’s well worth a visit. I’ve only seen a little sliver of it in my life but each time I’m here I always find something else to love about it. You can’t beat the sunrises and sunsets back here. This afternoon I spent some time photographing my sister. creating some photographs for her to use on her website and social media channels. I’ll probably add one of the portraits I made of here onto my portraits section of the website. On Saturday morning it’ll be time to pack up and head out. Off to Hot Springs, South Dakota to camp out for a few days. I’ll be spending some time up in the Black Hill National Forest exploring what it has to offer…
Winter Is Finally Showing
Cold beers after a good day on the mountain.
As I sit here and write this I have spent the last dew days staring at the NOAA.gov forecast for Silver Mountain. You know what? It’s finally looking good. Colder temperatures, and lots of snow falling on the hill. Which is good to see. I’m tired of having to watch where I am skiing. Those little exposed rock and baby trees are getting annoying. That hasn’t stopped my friends and I from getting out there to make some turns.
Last light on the mountain. Skier: Casey Winchel.
Right now Silver Mountain is only running on the weekends, but is going to seven day a week operation here in a few days. Last weekend wasn’t the best up there but it was a great couple days. Waking up late to head up and let the snow warm up on the groomed runs since they were less icy was our excuse to head to the bar before we started skiing. It was nice to start the days off with a Bloody Mary and a cold beer. Though my friend Casey and I have had a patch of bad luck with every time we order a beer we blow a keg. Hey, a partial free beer!
Watching all this snow falling around us is getting us even more excited to get that first deep powder day in. I don’t my friends and I can wait any longer. We looking forward to getting those fat skis and jumping off of everything we can find. With all this new snow falling in our mountains remember to ride with a friend and stay safe. Respect the mountains.
When the snow is the best the sends are much more reserved.
Chair 4, Silver Mountain. Skier: Casey Winchel.
A little something extra on the ride down. Wardner Peak in the distance. Silver Mountain, Idaho.
Black Canyon of The Gunnison
The Black Canyon is an impressive National Park that lies on the west slope of Colorado. The canyon on average only receives 33 minutes of direct sunlight daily. Hence the name Black Canyon….
Black Canyon Rd. The canyon can be accessed from the Montrose side or the Crawford side.
The Black Canyon is an impressive National Park that lies on the west slope of Colorado. The canyon on average only receives 33 minutes of direct sunlight daily. Hence the name Black Canyon. The drive into the park is very unassuming. As you drive up you really cant see anything, everything just appears flat. That is until you park and walk up to the edge of the cliff.
From the edge of the canyon. Not for those who are afraid of heights.
When you reach the canyons edge it is truly something else. It is an absolutely incredible drop down to the Gunnison River below. At the deepest the canyon is 2,722 feet deep. That is from the Warner Point part of the canyon. Seeing the walls up close is thing of beauty. The walls are different everywhere you look.
East wall of the canyon.
From the depths of the canyon.
There are a couple trails into the canyon. The trails into the canyon are less of a trail and more of a scramble mixed some light rock climbing. Beware, if it starts to rain you need to get out out of there. It’s dangerous enough to climb up and down while its dry. On the West Slope of Colorado this is one of the must see places. If you ever find yourself nearby make sure to stop in and spend a few hours exploring the canyon.