All pictures are shot with a Nikon D2X camera and Nikon zoom lenses securely mounted on a Gitzo tripod. These digital images are shot in RAW format, processed with Adobe Photoshop, then eventually converted to JPEG's for final printing purposes. Image files are sent digitally over the internet to an out of state printer to provide me with the best possible professional printing I can find. All note cards are printed with HP Indigo Digital Offset Printers on high quality watercolor or mild glossy paper. These note cards cost more, but the final product is exceptional.

Print enlargements are sent via two day UPS service to customers. If a client requests a print to be matted and dry-mounted, we implement the services of a local professional framer to provide this service. They are rated as "one of America's Top 100 frame shops" by Decor magazine, and their work is impeccable. When a customer requests a specific color matting, this can certainly be arranged; otherwise I will typically choose a complementary neutral color to enhance the image. All non-panoramic prints are mounted and matted to standard frame sizes for ease in framing when the final product arrives. There are no standard size panoramic frames, so expect to have panoramic photos custom framed.

Adobe Photoshop is used only sparingly to color correct files to return them to their original appearance, to crop images appropriately, and to clean up images from solar flares, dust grains, etc. Every effort is made so that the final print is as close to the original appearance of the subject as possible so that anyone can return to the site of the photograph to appreciate what was captured on the image. I never make any major changes, artificial additions or visual distortions to images with Photoshop! Why should I? The scene in front of me is what was generously given to me by Providence--I figure this must be precisely what was intended to be rendered on the final image. I graciously take what is given to me--and judging by the results I have been quite blessed!

The best advice I can give about subject choice is to photograph what you like and always plan visits by researching the subject. In addition, be motivated enough to get out of bed before dawn to take advantage of the sweet light at daybreak and patient enough to wait for the golden light at the end of the day. N.B.: Taking along a spouse can be a truly wonderful asset--but it can also be an issue if your spouse becomes justifiably bored while you're waiting for that one cloud to drift along at 6 AM... Sometimes it's better to work alone so that no one else has to endure your idiosyncrasies.

I also greatly admire two photographers: John Shaw and Ken Duncan. John Shaw's publications are the best photography teaching tools I have ever encountered. They are extremely well written, humorous, clear, and loaded with pictures that are both beautiful and instructive. Ken Duncan is an Australian photographer who has published my two favorite coffee table books of all time: Spirit of America - Hour of Power and America Wide - In God We Trust. Within these pages, Mr. Duncan gives us a spectaclular panoramic tour of our United States. They capture a stunning array of the visual blessings that God has granted to our nation, and the words and stories that accompany the photos provide immeasurable inspiration and wisdom. These books are a must see.

And one last tip, never underestimate the value of a "poor" weather forecast for adding depth and atmosphere to images. In most respects, the most boring times for photos are the mid-day hours when one typically encounters a glaring sun and harsh, flat light. In fact, the passing of a cold front with its turbulent clouds, showers, and changes in light often provides for the most dramatic and memorable shots. So be patient when it rains, get ready with the camera, and wait for that perfect moment!