art

Mirrors of Mammoth

Mammoth Lakes in California, is a photographer's dream, especially when it comes to its serene lakes reflecting the quiet beauty of the Eastern Sierra. The still and clear waters of these lakes provide a tranquil canvas for those seeking moments of calm and visual simplicity.

Photographing the lakes in Mammoth Lakes is a study in capturing reflections. From the glass-like surface of Twin Lakes to the mirror-like symmetry of Lake Mary, these bodies of water offer a quiet backdrop for the surrounding landscapes. The stillness of the lakes enhances the clarity of reflections, creating a straightforward and unembellished visual narrative. It is truly a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime sort magical place.

A Story of Life and Death

In the wilderness of Kings Canyon National Park, a tale unfolds — a tale that illuminates the intricate dance between fire and the majestic sequoia trees. These towering sentinels, standing tall for centuries, have borne witness to the transformative power of fire, an element that holds both destructive and rejuvenating forces.

Fire plays a pivotal role in the natural cycle of the sequoia forests, shaping the landscape and nurturing the life cycle of these awe-inspiring trees. It acts as a purifying force, clearing away accumulated debris, triggering the release of sequoia seeds, and creating space for new growth. The thick bark of the sequoias serves as armor against the flames, ensuring their survival amidst the inferno.

However, fire also carries a bittersweet narrative of loss and renewal. The scars etched by wildfires stand as enduring reminders of nature's immense power and unpredictability. Amidst the charred remnants of fallen trees, the cycle of life and death unravels.

Contemplating the delicate interplay between fire and the resilient sequoias, we bear witness to the harmony and tension that define the natural world. It is a tale of life and death, destruction and rebirth that weaves its way through the breathtaking landscapes of Kings Canyon National Park. Let us honor this complex narrative and embrace the enduring spirit of these remarkable trees, for within their existence lies a profound lesson about the resilience and fragility of our interconnected world.

A New Day in Rio

Sunrise is often the quietest time in any big city, and in Rio de Janeiro it feels a bit odd and wonderful to have the landscapes to yourself, before everyone else wakes up. The unusual serenity of the sunrise often brings with it some stunning light, especially on mornings with clear skies. Below is a collection of some sunrises I captured in Rio, from several locations. In a country like Brazil, I strongly recommend photographing at unsociable hours only if you can do so as part of a larger group - going alone can be dangerous depending on the locations you visit.

Sunset at the Sugar Loaf

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro is the Sugar Loaf (Pão de Açucar), where you can take a series of cable cars between the mountains and see the city from above. A few years ago, I visited this spot at sunset and came out with several images I am very fond of.