Orphaned Images

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T20:58:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

Junction Box

2011-11-11T07:52:00.002-05:00

Pt/pd print on Revere Platinum paper from a Quadtone RIP digineg. I'm liking this paper a lot. The base is warmer than Arches Platine but not as pronounced as Weston Parchment.

Trail

2011-11-09T08:55:00.000-05:00

I was given a few sheets of Revere Platinum paper to try. (Thanks Richard!)

So far, so good. Coats easily, clears without too much hassle. Surface is very 'hard'. I've not noticed any of the banding issues that some have reported but need to try a neg with more even tones (sky).

Pt/pd print on Revere Platinum. QTR digineg made from a scanned Tri-X neg taken with my Noblex 6/150E.

Clothesline

2011-10-02T16:14:00.005-04:00

Vivian, Ontario

Platinum-palladium print on Fabriano Artistico from a QTR digineg. Original image taken on Acros @ 200 with a GW690II.

Storefront

2011-09-27T18:23:00.003-04:00

Uxbridge, Ontario.

Platinum-palladium print on Fabriano Artistico from a QTR digineg.

Twisted

2011-09-24T08:02:00.001-04:00

Shapes

2011-09-18T17:47:00.001-04:00

Zoo

2011-09-17T15:08:00.002-04:00

Charity Print Auctions for Japan

2011-04-17T12:53:00.004-04:00

This is a wonderful fund raiser. My first print offering, "Typha", sold for $80.

My second print for this charity auction can be seen here on Flickr.

Content Unaware?

2010-05-27T08:10:00.003-04:00

I recently upgraded my copy of Photoshop from CS3 to CS5. In the past removing/adding bits and pieces to an image was usually done with the Clone tool but it was often a tedious process. The new Content Aware tool in CS5 aims at making all this a much easier task. The before and after shot shown here took me less than 5 minutes to accomplish. Keep in mind I am no where near to being a Photoshop 'guru'. I struggle and curse each and every time I use it.

Many will see this as a wish come true but we have to ask ourselves at what price? Photographers documenting the urban landscape will need to carefully weigh the power of this new tool before altering what they so carefully sought after to photograph in the first place.

When I took this image for my Expropriated Land series I purposely framed it so the hydro pole would neatly divide the two sections of this house. With the power of the Content Aware tool I doubt I would have given as much thought and time in framing this shot. Now that is a scary thought.

The Magic Brush (and a return to the journey)

2010-04-08T08:10:00.001-04:00

For the past few years I've been using the Richeson 'wash' brush (aka 'magic brush') for coating my platinum-palladium prints. Overall it's a lovely brush. The only downside is the metal ferrule used to bind the bristles together reacts with the platinum-palladium metal salts. I suppose it can be argued wither that's a bad thing or not but it sure does make it look grungy.

Recently there was a posting on one of the group forums for someone importing a Japanese hand-made 'magic brush' which didn't use a metal ferrule. How could I resist? I immediately put in an order for one. Besides, you can't have too much 'magic', right? As soon as I had it in my grubby hands I coated a couple of sheets of BFK. What a brush! It coats beautifully and feels great in the hand.

We've been blessed by a wonderful stretch of unseasonably warm weather. Last week I was driving on one of the major highways cruising at 120 km/hr. Considering what the limit is (100 km/hr) I thought it was a reasonable speed. Obviously not judging by the numerous vehicles passing by me 'like I was standing still'. I had no interest in playing cat-and-mouse with them and waste such a precious day.

I backed off on the accelerator and spent my time watching the light play on the shadows of the distant landscape. It was wonderful show, dynamic and alive. I wondered how many of those speeding by me took notice of the performance surrounding them or were they all consumed with only reaching their destinations?

All this got me thinking. I've spent the past few years working exclusively with digital. While it's gotten me quickly (efficiently?) to the desired destination I've lately become disenchanted with the journey.

So, with little fanfare, I've decided a return to using film. Despite my competent skill level there is still an uncertainty when shooting with film. You can never know for sure if you 'got it' until you pull it from the final wash and inspect each negative. For many analogue shooters that's part of the 'magic'.

Working in digital has many benefits, especially for those working commercially. However from an art photographers viewpoint the advantages may not be as clear cut. Personally I find little satisfaction in 'chimping' an lcd monitor immediately after each and every shot. I admit the digital workflow will still play a part in my work, just not as big a part as it has in the past.

I welcome my return to the journey.

Original 'analogue capture' on TX400 120 film rated at EI 200, developed in HC-110H

General Store

2010-01-06T08:10:00.004-05:00

I took this shot back when I had the enthusiasm to lug around a 25+ pound 11"x14" view camera with lens, tripod and film holder. I don't regret the year or so I spent with that particular beast. It was a great experience.

This is a platinum-palladium print made on Rives BFK. The original 11"x14" negative was scanned and a 'digital neg' was created on Inkpress Transparency Film using an Epson K3 printer. This hybrid workflow has allowed me to shed some weight, in terms of equipment, and lighten the load I now carry into the field. It also means, despite the shrinking availability of film, I can continue to make traditional prints using digital photo techniques.

[07/2003, Troy/Ontario, Wisner 11"x14"/Kodak 250mm WFE, 6"x8" platinum-palladium print on Rives BFK]

Trail Blazes

2009-11-05T08:10:00.001-05:00

Fall is a wonderful time for hitting the trails. Cool temps and colourful foliage make for an enjoyable day out.

In southern Ontario the Bruce Trail is an extensive network of interconnecting trails. It runs over 800 km from Niagara Falls to the tip of Tobermory.

[10/2009, East Gwillimbury/Ontario, Fotoman 617/90mm/Kodak 400NC]

Bell's Grist Mill

2009-10-28T08:10:00.003-04:00

Earlier this month we visited the small hamlet of Utopia to have a look at the old mill located there.

Bell's Grist Mill was originally built in 1864 and later destroyed by fire. It was rebuilt in 1903 where it remained in service until the 1960s. After it closed in 1965 the local conservation authority took control of the mill and surrounding land. Currently it is in the slow process of being restored.

[10/2009, Utopia/Ontario, Nikon D700/CV 20mm f/3.5]

End of Summer

2009-09-08T08:10:00.002-04:00

Over the long weekend we drove down to Burlington to take in the 14th annual Ribfest. The unmistakeable smell of slow bbq'd pork ribs filled the entire area as 18 'ribbers' from Canada and the U.S. duked it out for the first place prize.

There were long lineups at every 'pit' as hungry patrons patiently waited to place their orders. As well as ribs there was also bbq'd chicken, corn and yams. Everything looked yummy. I took this pano around noon hour and by 1:30pm the place was packed.

Perfect weather, friendly people and great food. A perfect finish to the Summer.

[09/2009, Burlington/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm f/1.4, 4-frame stitched image]

Tractor Show

2009-07-20T08:16:00.003-04:00

Over the weekend we took in the annual Tractor Show in Milton. If you're into farm equipment, especially tractors, then this was the place to be. Inside the buildings on display was a fine collection of John Deer and Cockshutt tractors. Outside the crowd were kept entertained watching a tractor pull competition.

[07/2009, Milton/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm f/1.4, 3-frame stitched image]

Doors Open Orillia

2009-05-27T20:55:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I made the trek to cottage country and the small town of Orillia for their Doors Open event.

Many visitors to Orillia will be familiar with the Stephen Leacock museum located in town. For myself, the highlight of the event was the quirky Ellesmere Junction Railway Museum located in Uptergrove. This toolshed was one of the buildings located on site.

[05/2009, Uptergrove/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm, hand coated Satista print]

Hortop Mill

2009-05-06T08:16:00.003-04:00

Located in the small village of Everton this three-story flour and grist mill was built in 1865. The terrain surrounding the mill is typical for the area. This is a great place to explore and well worth a visit.

Hopefully, under the protection of the Grand River Conservation Authority, it will remain a part of Ontario's history.

[04/09, Everton/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm, 6-frame stitched image]

Lynden House

2009-03-18T19:10:00.002-04:00

Nestled throughout the back roads is a network of charming country homes that form the backbone of the Bed and Breakfast inn. For the weary traveller they are a wonderful alternative to the dingy roadside motels.

One source of B&Bs in Ontario can be found here.

[08/2005, Sheffield/Ontario, Fotoman 617/90mm/Fuji Acros]

S.S. Nr.16

2009-02-25T08:10:00.011-05:00

In 1850 the Ontario government began building one-room school houses in many rural communities throughout the province. Known as a 'School Section' each one provided education to an area of approximately 5 square miles. They continued into service throughout the 19th century. By the early 20th century their numbers began to dwindle.

This particular building, School Section Nr.16, was erected in 1864. It's fate is still to be determined.

[02/2009, Pickering Ontario, Nikon D700/85mm]

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2008-12-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

BEST WISHES TO ALL FOR A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!

[11/2008, Tapely/Ontario, Nikon D700/58mm]

Confessions of an Art Photographer

2008-11-19T07:00:00.005-05:00

I was never destined to be a commercial photographer. From the earliest beginnings my photography has always been counter productive to the mighty dollar.

Over the years I've tried small product and wedding photography, model comps and did three seasons of 'kids having their picture taken with Santa'. I even worked in a large commercial photo studio but it was nothing more than work.

I've come to the realization that my work will never be used to sell a product or service. After all, from the very beginning, I've always been an 'art' photographer.

[11/2008, Whitby/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm]

Fall

2008-10-19T08:10:00.004-04:00

I love the Fall season. The rich earthy colours. The smell of fallen leaves on the ground. The slant of the afternoon light as it carves out every minute detail into the landscape. But most of all I find it to be a somber season. Fall is the signpost that divides the lazy days of summer and the depressing dreary months of winter.

[10/2008, Gormley/Ontario, Nikon D700/50mm, 8-frame stitched image]

Hope Mill

2008-10-10T12:10:00.007-04:00

Over the summer I had passed by this mill but didn't have a chance to check it out. Normally they have the big 42" saw blade whirring away as visitors watch it rip through timber but it's closed now for the season.

Last week I was surprised how little the annual fall colours had progressed. There was the odd patch of colour interspersed with all the greenery but nothing that would make a 'calendar' shot. In some ways I almost prefer this particular image in black and white.

[09/2008, Lang/Ontario, Fotoman 617/90mm/Fuji NPH]

World Wide Panorama

2008-10-05T19:16:00.006-04:00

The latest WWP theme event, Color, has now been posted on their server. You can see my entry here as well as some wonderful panos from around the world by other panographers.

[09/2008, Cheltenham/Ontario, Nikon D700/17-35mm]

Doors Open Peterborough

2008-10-05T07:11:00.001-04:00

The Pig's Ear Tavern is the oldest running establishment of it's kind in Peterborough. Originally opened as a saloon in 1865 it has gone through several owners but has always remained as a business of food and drink.

I've posted 360VRs of the Pig's Ear Tavern and the Showplace Performance Centre on my site.

It was a great finish to one of the last Doors Open events of the season.

[10/08, Peterborough/Ontario, Nikon D700/15mm/360 stitch]

Doors Open Barrie

2008-09-28T18:17:00.005-04:00

I spent a pleasant day up in Barrie for their first Doors Open event.

The highlight for me was a tour of the Robert Simpson Brewing Company. Named after a local brew master and first mayor of Barrie this micro brewery is in fact only a few years old.

I've posted a QTVR on my site which you can see here.

[09/2008, Barrie/Ontario, Nikon D700/15mm @ ISO 1600]

Mennonite Church 1852

2008-09-14T19:11:00.002-04:00

I passed this Mennonite church a few weeks ago while roaming the back roads. Of course it was not open but posted on the door there was a note saying they were having a 'doors open' on the 14th. Despite another foul and rainy weekend I decided to return for a visit.

I've seen a few Mennonite and Quaker churches so there was no surprises inside for me. At least that was my first impression. However once I started talking to the chap who took care of the place it became obvious what was special about this building. The acoustics inside was simply gorgeous. Our voices sounded rich and full with a deceptively long echo that belied the simple structure.

I've posted a full QTVR on my website. You can view it here.

On another note my supply of Garibaldi biscuits has long been consumed. Unfortunately they are somewhat difficult to obtain locally.

So to satisfy my craving for a small taste of Britain I stopped off in Goodwood for an Eccles cake and coffee before heading home.

[09/2008, Altona/Ontario, Nikon D700/17-35mm @ ISO 1600]

Stockdale Grist Mill

2008-08-27T07:11:00.012-04:00

I took a trip out to Trenton and visited the National Air Force Museum of Canada. Currently they're in the middle of finishing off their new premises but it's definitely worth a visit.

You can see a 360VR inside the NAFM here.

On my return I swung around to the area north-west of Trenton and was pleasantly surprised to find an old grist mill in Stockdale. It's fortunate that this piece of Ontario's past has been saved and preserved. Janet and Pete purchased the place and did a lot of restoration/renovations. Now it's an art gallery, studio, workshop, cafe and living space all laid out onto a very picturesque scene by the riverbank. This a great place to stop, rest a spell and grab a bite to eat. The owners hospitality is first rate.

Here's an inside 360VR of the mill.

[08/2008, Stockdale/Ontario, Nikon D700/28-70mm]

Doors Open in the Hills of Headwaters

2008-08-17T10:10:00.009-04:00

With the fabulous weather this weekend it's hard to believe Toronto broke it's record for the most rainfall in the season.

We took in the Doors Open event up in the Orangeville area which also included the towns of Alton, Hillsburgh and Erin. Saw some interesting sites and finished off with a late lunch in Erin at Steen's Dairy (pictured above).

I've posted full 360VRs on my site of the mill in Alton, currently under going restoration, and the Town Hall Opera House in Orangeville.

[08/2008, Erin/Ontario, Nikon D700/15mm]

HCRR Garage

2008-08-10T09:20:00.000-04:00

On my second visit to the Halton County Radial Railway museum we had the good fortune of being allowed into the garage area. Normally, for safety reasons, this area is closed to visitors but it was piss pouring rain and the volunteer took pity on us. Inside he gave us a wonderful detailed description of all the cars in the shop they're currently working on. Despite the depressing overcast rainy weather it was great to be out.

[08/2008, HCRR Milton/Ontario, Nikon D700/15mm]

Halton County Radial Railway Museum

2008-07-23T07:11:00.008-04:00

This past weekend I went to the Halton County Radial Railway Museum located in Milton. I've passed by it before and from the road there didn't seem to be much there. What a pleasant surprise! The garage and barn are full of old street and rail cars all in the process of restoration. The ones already restored are used to take visitors on short rides into the bush. This is a wonderful place to visit and 'poke' around.

[07/2008, Milton/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm, 36-frame stitched pano]

360VR in your pocket

2008-07-16T19:11:00.005-04:00

If you're one of the lucky 'million' who rushed out this past week to buy the new iPhone 3G there's a very cool app for your new 'toy'. It's called PangeaVR and is available as a free download from the Apple App Store. Basically it allows you to view 360VRs on your iPhone and iPod Touch. When you launch the app you'll see a directory listing of pano photographers from around the world. Scroll and view to your hearts content.

I'm listed under "Panoramas of Southern Ontario".

Here's the direct link if you want to enter it manually: http://www.rogerhein.com/RogerHeinPanos.xml

[06/2008, Trinity Anglican Church c1846, Colborne/Ontario, Nikon D300/8mm, 5-frame stitched equirectangular image]

Dock

2008-07-02T08:10:00.001-04:00

One of the things I've always wondered is how many actually read my blog. I suspect not many. I've been posting on a weekly basis for over 2 years. It started as an incentive for me to get out and photograph more. This is my 135th post and to be honest I'm a bit blogged out. I'm going to take a break and post less frequently.

There are many ways people enjoy the long, hot and hazy days of summer. I'm sure that, for a few out there, diving off a wooden dock into a cool pond has got to be one of the rituals of the season.

[06/2008, Willowgrove, Stoufville/Ontario, Nikon D300/28-70mm, Platinum-palladium print on 'pre-acidified' Rives BFK from a Pictorico OHP inkjet neg}

Doors Open Brighton-Cramahe

2008-06-25T08:10:00.011-04:00

This past weekend I drove out to the Brighton-Cramahe region for their Doors Open event. What a friendly bunch of folks! Everyone was very helpful and informative. I have to say their Doors Open brochure is one of the nicest I've seen.

Memory Junction Museum

My first stop was at Memory Junction which houses a hop barn museum, the old Brighton railway station (now also a museum) and an old locomotive with box car and caboose. The place was filed with all sorts of railway memorabilia. I've posted a full qtvr inside the caboose. You can see it here.

Salem United Church c.1861

As usual I dropped by several churches on the route. One church in Colborne had someone playing the organ. At the church in Salem a wonderful trio (violin and two recorders) played 16th century 'period' music. What a nice touch!

In the back hall at Old St. Andrew's (c.1830), in Colborne, the local Horticultural Society put on a lovely floral show complete with perfectly 'set' tables for people to rest and enjoy a nice cuppa and biscuits. A full qtvr of the floral show inside the hall can be seen here.

I finished the day with a slice of apple crumble pie at the Big Apple.

All in all it was a great day to be out.

[06/2008, Colborne/Ontario, Nikon D300/8mm, 5-frame stitched equirectangular image]

Cooper's Falls

2008-06-18T08:10:00.006-04:00

Cooper's Falls was founded in the 1860s when Thomas Cooper and his family emigrated to this once remote area of Ontario. It eventually grew into a small community complete with general store built and operated by Thomas, a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse and of course a church.

The town, as well it's population, went into decline over the years as the lumber supply in the area was exhausted. Thomas closed his general store and post office in 1968.

Today this old gas pump is probably one of the most photographed subjects in Cooper's Falls.

I've posted a full QTVR of Cooper's Falls which can be seen here.

[06/08, Coopers Falls/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm, 8-frame stitched pano]

Doors Open Stoufville

2008-06-11T08:10:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend I wasn't up to driving the 350+ kilometers to catch one of the various Doors Open events in cottage country. I decided to stay close to home and took in the Stoufville Doors Open.

There wasn't a large number of venues to see and I pretty well covered all of them in a couple of hours. It was great to be out in the hot, hazy and humid summer-like weather. The highlight for me was Lionel's Farm which has a wonderful collection of 150 wagons, carriages and buggies, some dating back to the 1800s. I ended the day with a late lunch at a nice cafe bakery in Goodwood.

I've posted on my site a full QTVR inside Lionel's barn. You can see it here.

[06/2008, Stoufville/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm, 5-frame tonemapped image]

Doors Open Port Hope

2008-06-04T08:10:00.005-04:00

After a 4 year absence the town of Port Hope held it's Doors Open this past weekend. Despite the ominous clouds it turned out to be a fabulous day for the event.

There were some wonderful venues on display. The high point for many was the Opera House (built in 1870) but other great sites like the Benson Log House (shown here) just added to the eye candy for the large number of people who turned up for the event.

I've posted full screen QTVRs on my site of the Opera House as well as the Wesleyville Church. The Opera House can be seen here and the Wesleyville Church here.

[05/2008, Port Hope/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm]

Toronto Aerospace Museum

2008-05-28T08:10:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend we headed over to Downsview Park. Once a former military base it is now home to the Toronto Aerospace Museum. It was great to see the original hangars filled with vintage aircraft. It gave the place a wonderful feeling of nostalgia.

Also at the Park this year was the annual Toronto Wings and Wheels Festival. There was lots to see and it looked like everyone was having a great time.

Several aircraft flew in for the day to the delight of aircraft enthusiasts. One of them was a Canadian Forces helicopter (seen here on the right) stationed at CFB Petawawa near Ottawa. I've posted a QTVR on my site. You can see it here.

[05/2008, Downsview/Ontario, Nikon D300/28-70mm, 8-frame stitched image]

Dandelion Field

2008-05-21T08:10:00.013-04:00

I admit I've been rather lax in my technique when it comes to 'using' digital equipment. In many ways digital has made photo technique seem so, well, convenient. Framing, shooting, processing, cropping, spotting, dodging, burning, masking, etc is as simple as a few clicks of the mouse.

When working with film I always use a single fixed focal length lens. Framing a subject requires that I have to physically MOVE closer or farther from it. By using the same focal length lens for everything meant that my visual perspective never changed.

The Dreaded Zoom Lens

The 'zoom' lens is not new. It has been around since the 1930s. Any one familiar with photo technique will know that there is a direct relationship between the focal length of a lens and the visual perspective it creates.

It occurred to me the other day that I've been unconsciously using my zoom lenses incorrectly. I would often zoom the lens 'in' or 'out', from 'wide' to 'tele', until the subject is framed the way I want it. The convenience of digital has made me so lazy that I've been using zoom lenses as a framing tool and not as a variable focal length optic.

[05/2008, Utica/Ontario, Nikon D300/28-70mm @ 56mm, 8-frame stitched image]

Vines and Berries

2008-05-14T07:11:00.004-04:00

It feels so nice to finally have Spring arrive.

[04/2008, Oshawa/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm]

Stouffville Farmers Market

2008-05-07T07:11:00.008-04:00

For a change of scenery I took M up to the Stouffville Farmers Market. It's still off-season but once the Victoria Day weekend rolls around this place will be hopping - mostly with flea market vendors. The produce sellers usually gather a couple of months later at the height of the growing season.

[04/2008, Stouffville/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm/6-frame stitched image shot handheld @ ISO 1600]

Canadian Automobile Museum

2008-04-30T08:10:00.026-04:00

This is a composite image made from two separate shots. The shot of the car was taken inside the Canadian Automotive Museum in Oshawa while the 'background' through the windshield was taken at Parkwood Estate.

A full QTVR of the exhibits on the second floor of the CA museum can be seen here.

[04/2008, Oshawa/Ontario, Nikon D300/10-20mm/17-35mm]

No Photography Allowed?

2008-04-27T08:16:00.005-04:00

I drove down to Guelph this past weekend to catch one of the first Doors Open of the season. My tour began at the Dominion Public Building.

I had barely managed to squeeze off this first shot for a 360 QTVR when I was told by the guide that no pictures were allowed. I asked what was the reason for this since it was neither a private residence or a high security area. He said it was for the entire Guelph Doors Open venue and pointed it out on their brochure. Sure enough there it was, under the paragraph "On the Tour", the "taking of interior photos and videos is not permitted". Needless to say I was very disappointed that they would apply such a broad blanket restriction. It's the first time I've encountered it for a Doors Open event.

So if you're a visitor/tourist and have a passion for photography make sure you read the fine print before venturing out.

[04/2008, Guelph/Ontario, Nikon D300/8mm]

Waterfall

2008-04-23T08:10:00.013-04:00

I discovered this jewel of a waterfall by accident while browsing Google Earth.

I've posted a full QTVR on my site. You can view it here as well as a wonderful little treehouse in Rouge Park.

On a side note, in last weeks blog I mentioned our visit to Parkwood Estate. I've added an update regarding their policy towards visitors/tourists who want to take pictures.

[04/2008, Altona/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-35mm]

Pool

2008-04-16T08:10:00.015-04:00

It's funny how one can easily miss the things that are right on your doorstep. I had never heard of Parkwood Estate and was unaware of this stately mansion and grounds located in the heart of Oshawa. It's 'off season' right now but we plan on returning for the full tour once the grounds are in full bloom.

In the meantime, from our short visit, I've posted full QTVRs inside the greenhouse and a washroom on the main floor. They can be seen here.

More info on the Parkwood Estates can be found here.

04-23-08
VISITORS/TOURISTS TAKE NOTE

Parkwood Estate is available for commercial photography and cinematography only.

We recently discovered that, with the exception of the pool and greenhouse, PHOTOGRAPHY (WITH OR WITHOUT FLASH) IS NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE MANSION BY VISITORS/TOURISTS.

Considering the amount of continuous high output lighting generated by a movie set I find this policy towards visitors/tourists to be unfair.

[04/2008, Oshawa/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm]

Port Hope Drive-In

2008-04-09T08:10:00.003-04:00

Procrastination is a terrible thing.

When it comes to photographing the ever changing landscape true perfection is a rarity. Waiting for that perfect moment (subject, light, conditions, equipment, etc) may result in never making any images. To make matters worse, when you finally do get over procrastinating, the original object of your visual desire may no longer physically exist.

Filling in the gaps between those elusive 'moments' with not-so-perfect images can be productive - even therapeutic. In the end you may have less than a handful of 'perfect' images but, in a lifetime, you will have a body of work.

[09/2000, Port Hope/Ontario, Phillips Explorer 8"x10"/240mm]

Flock of Seagulls and a Duck

2008-04-02T07:11:00.011-04:00

It reminded me of a scene from The Birds. M was standing to the side and tossing pieces of bread into the air while a circling group of seagulls greedily fought for every morsel. The interaction between humans and wildlife was quite animated. A lone duck watched (in amusement).

[03/2008, Pickering/Ontario, Nikon D300/10-20mm]

Cranberry Marsh

2008-03-26T07:11:00.004-04:00

Over the March School Break I took M to some of the local 'beaches' that dot the shoreline of Lake Ontario. Most are nothing more than a narrow strip of land.

Each Spring flocks of birds will congregate in wetlands like this one to continue the cycle of life.

I've posted a full QTVR on my site under inMotion->Places. You can see it here.

[03/2008, Pickering/Ontario, Nikon D300/10-20mm, 4-frame 'Enfused' image]

Pioneer Cemetery

2008-03-19T07:11:00.006-04:00

I made this image a few years ago. It was one of my early attempts at creating a larger 'canvas' by stitching together several single frames. While the framing for this shot is a bit 'tight' I still like the overall mood of the image.

The next WWP event begins today. The theme for this time around is 'Beginnings'. Hopefully I'll come up with something before the event is over.

[11/2004, Myrtle/Ontario, Nikon D70/18-70mm, 5 frame stitch pano]

Don River Watershed

2008-03-12T07:11:00.010-04:00

The central Don trail begins at the top of the city from Edward Gardens and follows a path all the way to the Toronto Necropolis near the bottom of the Don Valley. It's a wonderful green belt for city dwellers. Edward Gardens is one of several popular locations for wedding photographers.

[03/2008, Edward Gardens/North York, Nikon D300/17-55mm, 6-frame stitched pano]

Dufferin Quarry Bridge

2008-03-05T07:11:00.017-05:00

This past summer, while photographing in the area around Milton, we noticed what looked like a small bridge spanning between two cliffs. We headed towards it down a dirt road which brought us to a farm at a dead end. Fortunately there was someone at the farm who was kind enough to tell us how to get to the 'bridge'.

We didn't pursue it at the time but returned recently to the area. Officially known as the Dufferin Quarry Bridge it's a part of the Bruce Trail. The quarry can be seen looking north from the bridge. I've also posted a QTVR in my inMotion Places main gallery page. You can see it here.

[02/2008, Milton/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm, 7 frame stitched image]

Community Hall

2008-02-27T07:11:00.004-05:00

One of the shorter autumn 'drives' in Southern Ontario begins at the crossroads of 8th line and Highway 27. Heading west across hilly terrain, dotted with farms along the way, you pass through the small towns of Beeton and Loretto.

Heading further west, by the time you reach the town of Hockley, the topography has changed into a picturesque valley . The road continues to wind and curve past an exposed hillside of terracotta. Soon after you find yourself at Highway 10 and back in the 'face' of urbanization.

[10/2005, Hockley/Ontario, D70/28mm]

Last Train

2008-02-20T07:11:00.017-05:00

There was a time when Southern Ontario once had an extensive railroad system. It was an essential link to many of the small communities for their survival. Today only the 'main branch' remains in service. Many of the outliers have been abandoned and left to decay. Fortunately some have been saved and restored with the efforts of caring volunteers.

[08/2007, Sutton/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Carmel

2008-02-13T07:11:00.009-05:00

When I'm roaming the back roads of Southern Ontario I often choose my final destination by it's name. On this particular outing the 'dot' on the map I chose happened to be Carmel. Now anyone remotely 'into' photography will immediately recognize that name as one of the pivotal locations associated with the west coast photographic movement. Of course that Carmel is in California.

'My' Carmel turned out to be nothing more than an old farm located at a dirt cross road.

On the way to 'my' Carmel I passed through some quaint small towns and saw a couple of wonderful old churches. One of the towns I passed through was Castleton. A small hamlet complete with general store, garage and church. All in all a pretty good day. Like the saying goes "the journey is the 'experience', the destination just an end".

[07/2005, Castleton/Ontario, Nikon D70/18-70]

Foundation

2008-02-06T08:10:00.000-05:00

As we usher in the Year of the Rat it's hard to believe I started this blog two years ago. Not bad for what some people consider as a dull and boring place to photograph, eh?

[11/2007, Fingerboard/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Magic

2008-01-30T07:11:00.001-05:00

With global warming having such a dramatic effect on local weather patterns it's no coincidence most people my age (ie. 55+) always "remember seeing a lot more snow around here when we were kids".

In Southern Ontario the 'white stuff' never seems to hang around for very long. A blast of warm 'gulf air' from south of the border is all it takes to turn a picturesque winter wonderland into a dull monotone drab.

I find there is a gentleness to freshly fallen snow that feels so peaceful. Perhaps it's a reminder of what it was like being a kid growing up without a care in the world.

Those were good times.

[01/2008, Gormley/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm]

Ice Nr.4

2008-01-23T07:11:00.000-05:00

On my last visit to the Grand Canyon I remember how the night sky was completely covered with tiny specks of light. The frozen ice and snow on this wetland pond reminds me of that night under the stars.

[01/2008, Gormley/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm]

Cornfield

2008-01-16T08:16:00.000-05:00

If there's one thing almost everyone in Southern Ontario agrees on it's the 'winter blahs'. Days and days of grey drab weather which seem to last for weeks on end. I know I'm not alone in wishing for an early Spring.

[03/2006, Stouffville/Ontario, Nikon D70/70-210mm]

Carcass

2008-01-09T07:11:00.000-05:00

I consumed way too much turkey and food over the holidays. Time to go back on my lower cholesterol regime. Ain't 'life' wonderful......

[01/2008, Scarborough/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm]

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-01T07:11:00.000-05:00

May all our wishful projects come true in 2008!

[c.1971, Rockwood/Ontario, Leica M2/50mm]

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2007-12-25T07:11:00.000-05:00

WISHING YOU ALL A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

[09 1996, Ontario Canada, Nikon F2A 105mm, Fuji Velvia]

Wesleyville Church

2007-12-19T07:45:00.001-05:00

The Wesleyville Church was built in 1860 by Bennett Jane for the paltry sum of £599.

[12/2007, Wesleyville/Ontario, Nikon D300/17-55mm]

Mill Pond

2007-12-12T07:11:00.000-05:00

Many of my images hold fond memories for me. What I remember most about this image was the strong earthy smell around the Mill Pond as the ecosystem slowly changed from one season to the next.
I never made a print from this neg because it was poorly exposed and processed. I decided to bring it back to life by applying my current working methods.

[c.1974, Richmond Hill/Ontario, Minolta SRT-101/85mm]

Canal Road

2007-12-05T08:10:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend Southern Ontario got it's first blast of winter. It's cloudy, windy, cold and damn depressing. Looking at this pano I shot a couple of years ago is a reminder of how much the Sun can change the whole outlook of things.

[01/2005, Holland Marsh/Ontario, Nikon D70/20-35mm, 6-frame stitched pano]

Stanley Street, Ayr

2007-11-28T08:10:00.000-05:00

A few years ago I began collecting 'photo' postcards of small towns around Southern Ontario. I had envisioned doing something along the lines of showing a yesterday/today shot. Unfortunately this project never really got off the ground. I discovered what were once small hamlets have now grown into communities sharing few, if any, of their physical 'markers' to the past.

Despite this I did manage to get one or two that I felt were promising. The above image was taken in the small hamlet of Ayr. This negative was scanned and worked on in Photoshop.

In many ways this shot was a personal turning point. It was the one that made me get 'out there' and rediscover there is more to photography than mountains, deserts and Yosemite.

Here, for comparison, is the 1910 'photo' postcard. Title: "Stanley Street from Bridge - Ayr Ont".

[07/2000, Ayr/Ontario, Hobo 8"x10"/120mm, pigment ink print]

Enfield United Church c.1877

2007-11-21T07:11:00.001-05:00

I can still remember the day I took this image. It was a gorgeous fall day. The sun lay low in the sky bathing the landscape in the kind of light that I wish would last forever. As it so often happens this was also my last shot of the day.

After processing my negatives I noticed the church looked slightly 'skewed' despite having made sure everything was 'level' on my 8"x10" view camera. At the time I made a test platinum print but was not happy with the result.

Every year, at the first sign of cold weather, I browse through some of my old negs. I decided to have another go at this one and see what I could accomplish with the tools I use today. After scanning the negative I began to work the file in Photoshop. I made a slight adjustment in perspective, tweaked local contrast, did some burning and dodging and then output the final file on my Epson 4800. All in all I'm pleased with the final result.

[09/2004, Enfield/Ontario, Tachihara 8x10/240mm, pigment ink print]

Fire Hall

2007-11-14T07:11:00.001-05:00

Not sure if this 'fire hall' is actually in use or not.

[11/2007, Little Britain, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Dental Practice

2007-11-07T07:11:00.002-05:00

A former United church (c.1881) now converted into a dental practice.

[05/2005, Pottageville/Ontario, Fotoman 617/90mm]

Empty Stalls

2007-10-31T08:20:00.000-04:00

I made this image several years ago. The farm, as well as a quaint 'century' home, have long been bulldozed over and replaced with a large modern 'ranch style' home.

[03/2001, Cheerywood/Ontario, Phillips Explorer 8"x10"/159mm, platinum-palladium print on Rives BFK]

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

2007-10-24T10:12:00.000-04:00

Went down to Mount Hope over the weekend to check out the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. Many of the volunteers working there are veterans. They had some great stories to tell.

This print is available for sale, as well as others, on my new Plain Wrapper Art eShop. I've also posted on my site a QTVR shot 'from the cockpit'.

[10/07, Mount Hope/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 3 frame stitched image]

Inner Range Lighthouse

2007-10-17T07:11:00.000-04:00

The final Doors Open of the season was held in the Niagara Region this past weekend. The day began cloudy and cold but by the time I arrived in St. Catharines the sky had cleared.

My first stop was the Inner Range Lighthouse in Port Dalhousie. It was rebuilt in 1898 after being destroyed by a fire . De-commissioned in 1988 it was later designated as a historical building.

The full QTVR can be seen on my website.

[10/07, Port Dalhousie/Ontario, Nikon D80/10/5mm]

DreamPond

2007-10-10T07:17:00.000-04:00

I don't get very many pictures taken of myself. This happens to be one I quite like. Taken by my friend, Doug Lavender, on a perfect late summer day as I setup to shoot a Quicktime VR of the DreamPond at the Metro Toronto Zoo.

[09/07, Toronto/Ontario, Nikon D70/18-70mm]

Fryfogel Tavern

2007-10-03T07:17:00.001-04:00

Perfect temps and sunny skies in southern Ontario made for a wonderful start to the Fall season.

I headed down to Perth County in south western Ontario for their Doors Open event. My first stop was the Fryfogel Tavern just outside of Shakespeare. Built in 1844 the Fryfogel Tavern was a stop and resting place for the 19th stagecoach running along the Huron Tract.

QTVRs inside the Fryfogel, an artist studio in Stratford, a wonderful planing mill in Sebringville as well as the Romanesque St. Patrick's in Kinkora can be seen on my site.

[09/07, Shakespeare/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

The Sanderson Centre

2007-09-26T07:17:00.001-04:00

One of the last Doors Open events for the season finished off over the weekend in the town of Brantford. This once prosperous city was the third largest in Ontario early in the 20th century. Despite a steady economic decline they had the foresight to preserve some of the nicest examples of architecture that I've seen in ANY small town.

One fine example is The Sanderson Centre. Built in 1919 it began as a vaudeville stage. Over the years many well known artists have performed within it's grand walls. We had no idea what to expect when we entered the building. We were shocked at the sheer grandeur of it's interior. Our 'guide' was most helpful - Thank You!

This shot looking up shows the fabulous original chandelier and ceiling. A full Quicktime VR of this beautiful theatre can be seen on my site as well as several new QTVRs posted: St. Basil's in Brantford, Wesley United in Galt, Wings of Paradise in Cambridge and more.

[09/07, Brantford/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

Hatrack

2007-09-19T07:17:00.001-04:00

Last weekend was very cool and blustery as I headed down to catch a few sights around the Waterloo Region Doors Open. I met Doug at the Detweiler Meeting House located by the small village of Roseville. Built in 1855 it is Ontario's only surviving stone meetinghouse built by the Mennonites. Despite the cool weather the locals were serving up the best bbq sausage I've ever tasted. A full QuicktimeVR of the austere interior can be seen on my website.

[09/07, Roseville/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Stairwell

2007-09-12T08:10:00.000-04:00

Took a trip down to Woodstock for their Doors Open event. For a small town with over two dozen churches there is no shortage for places of worship. This is inside the Central United Church. Built in 1877 it features stunning stained glass windows as well as a splendid balcony section - two things I so seldom see in small town rural churches around Southern Ontario.

[09/07, Woodstock/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

Shoreline

2007-09-05T07:17:00.000-04:00

Taken several years ago along the north shore of Lake Ontario.

[02/2000, Scarborough/Ontario, HOBO 8"x10"/120mm, 4"x10" platinum-palladium print on Weston's Parchment]

Cedar Brae Schoolhouse c.1890

2007-08-29T07:17:00.000-04:00

Another school year begins......

[08/07, Keswick,/Ontariio, Nikon D80/17-55mm, 7-frame stitched pano]

Night Gown

2007-08-22T07:17:00.002-04:00

This is inside the 'Lee House' at Scugog Shores Museum. It was built in 1865 and moved to it's present location in 1972. This is the third 'heritage' park I've been to this summer. These are great places to photograph without having to drive aimlessly for hours.

[08/07, Port Perry/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Doherty Organ

2007-08-22T07:17:00.001-04:00

The Doherty Piano and Organ Company was founded in 1875 in the small town of Clinton Ontario. This very fine example is located at the Scugog Shores Museum in Port Perry.

The platinum palladium print was made from an inkjet neg using Quadtone RIP (QTR). It's been a struggle for the past few months - there are so many controls and variables with QTR - but I've finally gotten to the point where I am pleased with the results. More images have been added to the Platinotype gallery on my website.

[08/07, Port Perry/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm, platinum palladium print on Arches Platine]

Vic's Shoe Repair

2007-08-15T07:17:00.000-04:00

We drove up to Aurora this past weekend to attend their Doors Open event. As is so often the case we met some great people along the way. One fellow in particular stood out. Vic's Shoe Repair was established in 1973. That's Vic standing behind the counter. Over the years he's made every imaginable repair to footwear. A true craftsman, he took great pride in showing us all the tools of his trade including some 'antiques' from yesteryear. The full QTVR can be viewed on my website.

[08/07, Aurora/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

Free Methodist Church

2007-08-08T07:11:00.000-04:00

Took in another 'heritage village' over the weekend. This time in Keswick. Despite it's modest size, about a dozen buildings, there was a lot to take in. This is inside the Free Methodist Church. Built in 1889 it was originally located in Baldwin Ontario and later moved to it's current location in 1974. This Quicktime VR can be viewed on my website.

[08/07, Keswick/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

Blacksmith

2007-08-01T07:11:00.000-04:00

This is inside the blacksmith shop at Country Heritage Park in Milton. The fellow on the right wearing shorts is David Kiddle. He's one of many helpful volunteers at the park. This qtvr along with others can be viewed on my website under the 'inMotion' gallery.

[07/07, Milton/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

Ruthven Mansion

2007-07-25T07:11:00.000-04:00

Headed down to Ruthven Park and took in the tour of the old mansion. It's one of the many places around Ontario that has been designated as a historic 'heritage' site. Shot as a Quicktime VR.

[07/07, Indiana/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm]

St. Jacobs

2007-07-18T08:16:00.000-04:00

My aunt from Montreal was visiting us for the week. We did a day trip to the heart of the Mennonite community in St. Jacobs. Considering the Mennonite way of life it was odd seeing a large 'factory outlet' mall with all the 'brand names' located right beside the old farmers market.

[07/07, St. Jacobs/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-55mm]

Ford Dealership

2007-07-11T09:20:00.000-04:00

Our previous visit to Country Heritage Park was in November last year. Unfortunately it was off season and all the buildings were closed. We made a return trip this past weekend and it was well worth the return visit. Over 30 preserved structures and more tractors than you can count made for a rich photographic location. Definitely worth a 'look see' if you're in the area. This is the Ford Dealership shot as a Quicktime VR.

[07/07, Milton/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 7-frame stitch]

Galt

2007-07-04T07:17:00.000-04:00

Spent the holiday Monday in Galt. Perfect temperature, big fluffy white clouds and low humidity made for a great day out. Shot as a Quicktime VR.

[07/07, Galt/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 6 frame stitch]

Public School

2007-06-27T08:16:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend I was down around the Woodstock area. This grand old public school is now used as a daycare center. Original shot as a Quicktime VR.

[06/07, St. George/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 6 frame stitch]

Shelburne

2007-06-20T07:11:00.000-04:00

We went to Shelburne over the weekend to catch their Doors Open and Classic Car Streetfest. This was their first Doors Open and it was obvious the locals were very proud of this small community of 4000. This image is part of a Quicktime VR.

[06/07, Shelburne/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 6 frame stitch]

Power House

2007-06-13T07:11:00.000-04:00

Inside the old Power House in the 'Distillery District'. Originally shot as a Quicktime VR.

[05/07, Toronto/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 6-frame stitch, pigment ink print]

Udora

2007-06-01T08:20:00.000-04:00

It's nice to see a small town 'general store' that hasn't been taken over by the 'chains'.

[04/07, Udora/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-50mm, pigment ink print]

SAS

2007-05-30T07:11:00.000-04:00

It was not the best weather for Doors Open this year. We decided to check out some of the buildings in and around the 'Distillery District'. The SAS building is one of the new environmentally friendly 'green' structures going up in the city. This is shot from the 8th floor outdoor patio.

[05/07, Toronto/Ontario, Nikon D80/10.5mm, 5-frame stitch pano, pigment ink print]

Rouge Beach

2007-05-23T08:10:00.000-04:00

M had a great time at Rouge Beach over the Victoria Day weekend despite below normal temps.

[05/07, Rouge Park/Ontario, Nikon D80/10-20mm, pigment ink print]

St. George Church, 1857

2007-05-16T08:10:00.000-04:00

I passed by this church a few years ago. By chance they were participating in the Hamilton 'Doors Open' event so it was 'open house'. I went in and had a nice chat with the minister who kindly gave me a brief history of the church.

[05/07, Tapelytown/Ontario, Nikon D80/10-20mm, 3-frame stitch, pigment ink print]

Jordan Museum

2007-05-09T08:10:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I was down in the Niagara region for a 'faith-n-death' run and stumbled across this little piece of history in Jordan.

[05/07, Jordan/Ontario, Nikon D80/17-50mm, 9-frame stitch, pigment ink print]

St. Thomas Church, 1838

2007-05-02T08:10:00.000-04:00

It was by chance that I met the minister of this well known historical site who kindly allowed me to take some photographs inside the church. St. Thomas is often referred to as the 'mud church'. It is one of the few large standing structures in North America that is constructed using a technique called 'rammed earth' or 'cob'. Similar to the adobe it is made from a mixture of clay, sand and straw. The walls are one metre thick and provide excellent insulation against the very cold winters.

[04/07, Shanty Bay/Ontario, Nikon D80/10-20mm, 3-frame stitch, pigment ink print]

Marina

2007-04-25T08:10:00.000-04:00

We had fabulous weather this past weekend with clear blue skies and summer like temps. It was great to finally get 'out' under sunny skies. In about 2 weeks this tranquil marina will be packed with cottagers and the sound of outboard motors.

[04/07, Keswick/Ontario, Nikon D80/10-20mm, pigment ink print]

Hardware Store

2007-04-18T08:20:00.000-04:00

O'Krafka's Hardware Store

[09/05, Rostock/Ontario, Nikon D70/60mm, 12-frame stitch, pigment ink print]

Gravel Pit II

2007-04-11T07:17:00.000-04:00

It was in the dead of Winter when I took this photograph. I was racing down a 2-lane country road, hoping to catch the last rays of light, when I spotted this gravel pit. Without a care who was behind me I slammed on the brakes and skidded into the 'marbles'. Grabbing my camera I ran out of the car. It was all over in a few minutes. My feet were wet, my fingers frozen but I got the 'shot'. When I was young every 'moment' felt charged, every day was 'forever'.

[circa 1973, East Gwillimbury/Ontario, Minolta Autocord III/75mm, 7"x10" pigment ink print]