This is the Clackamas River Valley near Portland, Oregon, on the way to the barn where my horses live. The day turned unexpectedly gorgeous around 3:00, and I took a ride on my BMW out there, then a ride on my horse, then a ride back. It was on the way back, towards sunset, that I found myself repeatedly stopping along the shoulder, drawn toward Mt Hood’s alpenglow. I learned today how it’s possible to stabilize a camera more effectively against a motorcycle helmet, while (sorta) getting an adequate view through the viewfinder. These sheep are actually grazing an acre or so of pasture that is nearly surrounded by hundreds of acres growing Christmas Trees, which are just out of view. And as usual along the Clackamas, at least when the weather allows, Oregon’s iconic mountain dominates the scene. Hood is draped in the heavy snows that have fallen throughout our cool, wet spring.
MJF Images Fine Art landscape, nature and travel images from the American West and around the world.
A photo & travel blog with a difference: Instead of strict focus on photo how-to, gear and the like, I'll pass on knowledge about the places and cultures photographed. I believe the more deeply you come to know a place, the better your pictures will be.
My past careers as science teacher and geologist mean that I can't help but teach about the natural history of photogenic places around the world. But photography is not forgotten. You'll also see practical tips about where and how to photograph the destinations. And once a week, Friday Foto Talk gives photography tips and how-to on a selected topic, for novices on up to expert.
What you won't find here is endless discussion about me braving dangerous weather, terrain or wild animals to get the shot. Nor will there be cheerleading gear talk or marketing pitches. I promise to leave that to other blogs, of which there are many.
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