A late night sky.

Being up and awake at 2 or 3 AM has its rewards in Navarre Beach Florida. I looked up and saw this intensely wonderful sky full of stars. How to photograph it was a bit harder. But with just three time exposure shots making an adjustment with each review...after a quick white balance correction, I ended up with this.

A good portrait is more than just good lighting and exposure.
It should also tell about the subject or tell a story.

The aroma in the air today was unmistakable. It was sweet and lingering. Sweet as a Gardenia bloom and just as soft but not as fragile. It was an aroma that could only happen after weathering the bite of   cold winter days and the turbulent winds of spring.

This sweetness can only happen after years of growth, learning patience along the way and remembering to be thankful for the sunshine and rain that gave life. A sweetness that can see the blooms that have faded and will soon fall from the tree to continue providing a source for growth and strength for buds yet to bloom.

I stepped back and filled my lungs with the scent of rain from a nearby cloud. Remembering that even in the rain, the Magnolia is grateful. It reminded me of my home in Mississippi where my own Magnolia has bloomed and shared the sweetness of life. She turned seventy this year and her color remains bright and peaceful. Like the aroma in the air today, she lingers, calling all of those around her to bloom.



Yosemite Valley
The view of Yosemite is spectacular from whereever you find yourself...but among the most awe inspiring views in my life is just as you exit the tunnel leading into Yosemite, you are given the grand view of the valley with its majestic cliffs flanking each side.

I have chosen to present this in a black and white version because I always imagine myself standing next to Ansel Adams when I am in Yosemite.

Harbor on Narragansett Bay

Harbor on Narragansett Bay
Originally uploaded by ericstokley

Sugar Cane

Sugar Cane
Originally uploaded by ericstokley

Albuquerque New Mexico City Skyline at Night

Albuquerque New Mexico City Skyline at Night
Originally uploaded by ericstokley

The wind during this shot was easily 50 mph gust. Taken from I-25 just around ext 222.

Pilgrims Monument

Pilgrims Monument
Originally uploaded by ericstokley