I think I already mentioned, that Moab is my vacation place of choice. I was there last year, and was looking forward revisiting this year. There is something in red rock and blue sky, which appeals to me. This time, we found time to go to Dead Horse State Park, for Canyonlands overlook. I was struck by the apparent “layers” in the view, where different rock formations were creating a three dimensional view with mountains as backdrop. The color seem to be redundant here, so how about B&W? Figured, as I have a minute, I might as well try Nik Silver Efex Pro. I have a mixed feelings about plug-ins, especially a cost of those for hobbyist like me, but there are always trial versions, right? So, I have fun with it, it seems to be very simple and intuitive to use, and those ready presets….. In no time I got out my photograph just what I wanted.

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Our Southwest trip included a stop in Mesa Verde National Park. We were lucky in the fact, that it was Friday, no vacation time yet, and although the park itself have been rather crowded, not many people wanted to descend to this particular kiva in Spruce Tree House. With my husband as an flash assistant, we have been trying different settings and placements, but ended up not using the flash at all. The ray of light is adding to a mystery feeling in this photo.

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This seems like totally abstract image. Like late paining of Monet. In fact, if you look closer and more carefully, you start realizing what it really is. A surface of a lake. It is covered with old and fresh leaves. But you can still catch a glimpse of reflection of trees around. It is a cautiously cropped view.
I took this photo at Oak Openings Preserve, while picnicking on Evergreen Lake. I took broader views, but this one is my favorite.

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I am not sure about this one. I like it, but then- something seems amiss. Like too much objects or too much colors? I cannot pinpoint it. Any comments are welcome. But I still like the photograph and decided to put it up today. These glass rods were part of the exhibition in Art Museum of Toledo, in special glass pavilion. They were just arranged in a stand, and I like the diversity of shape and color.

I feel so overwhelmed today. After really crazy month, with my parents visit and trip South-West, followed by meeting in Toledo, I am sitting at my desk and figure out where to start living normal life. Meantime, I have about 2500 new photos, and need just one, for today’s blog. I was just clicking through them, looking for something to catch my eye.
Something simple, like the dandelion, seems to be soothing today. I am seriously considering buying a macro lens, and then I go and make a photo like that, and I am not convinced any more. This lens is focusing surprisingly close, and seems like it is working all right for my current needs.

Still visiting Toledo area, we went today to Providence Metropark, among others. I loved the trip on the boat, drawn by mules, the locks, and the 1872 atmosphere. I hope this photo gives a bit of it, without the sounds of cars. The peaceful, spring, sunny feeling of slow boat tour.

I finally talked my husband into going to see some car races. In Toledo, of all places. I have never been on race track before, and somehow it seemed like I am going to like it. I did. And not only because it offers great photo ops. I was playing some with panning, but also taking photos of cars slowly driving during breaks, and enduring noise . The fence came out… as a fence, unfortunately, but hey, you have to start from something. I also would have enjoyed the evening even more, having my warm fleece with me, as it was quite windy.

I got up today, first time in a long time, at 6 am. Adding to that, that I am an hour ahead of my home time zone, it has to account for something? Anyway, the reason for that was to join a birdwatching trip organized as a field trip during the meeting I attend. I have not seen too many birds during that our. I heard a lot, and some pros in the group were calling names. However, there was one bluebird, on parking lot, but my 200 mm with converter didn’t got exciting picture. But the robin slightly sticking his head out of the nest was just right. The nest was on a tree just next to path.

I am going to use a picture today just as a reason to tell this story. It is not unique to the University of Toledo campus, but I like the idea. The Rain Garden essentially gathers the runoff water when it rains, and the water is sinking through planted soil to get treated before being discharged to the river. There are currently two on this campus, but they are planning to plant more soon. Added benefits- planting the native plants.

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This is my the very favorite photo of my recent escapade. It was made out of a car, again, which is not very surprising considering I was spending about 5 hours driving each day. At least, in this one car was used as… tripod. The night was falling, there was a full moon that day, and the view was exquisite. I expressed interest, and my husband pulled over to give me a chance to take this image, and I used a roof window to position myself and steady the camera for required longer shutter speed. I took several photos, and checked the preview. it was when I discovered that the vista reflected in the roof of the car. Serendipity at work.

“>Click here to see where the photo was taken