http://skinny.blog.co.uk/A weblog featuring photography, photo-essays, and the journey from here to there.en-UKhttp://backend.userland.com/rss092http://skinny.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/74/55dbc3a2728a2edcb7f7a5f7bdf3f5_160x200.jpg <p>To those of you who are frequent visitors to "The Skinny Chronicles," and to those who have stumbled here by accident. Thanks for stopping and having a look. I am in the process of trying to establish a new photoblog, with the intent of focusing on the photography rather than the accompanied writings. You can find it here:</p> <p><a href="http://rbuckley.aminus3.com">Robert Buckley Photography</a></p> <p>You can also see a portfolio of my work here:</p> <p><a href="http://rbuckley.aminus3.com/portfolio/">Robert Buckley Photography: Portfolio</a></p> <p>In the midst of a busy lifecycle, I have decided there is just not enough time for family, friends and hobbies. Recently, photography has not been one of my routines. In an effort to get my photography going again, I have decided that I would just concentrate on the photographs and the darkroom.</p> <p>Please have a look at what has been posted on the new site and check back often. I am in the process of developing some new work, some of which is from recent journeys in Arizona and England, which I hope to have posted on the new blog soon.</p> <p>Sincerely,</p> <p>Rob </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/10/15/let_s_try_this_again~1223726/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/10/15/let_s_try_this_again~1223726/Sun, 15 Oct 2006 14:11:55 +0200 <p>This image was captured in the Gleeson Cemetery, which lies on the outer edge of town. What I found interesting about this grave plot was the tombstone on the left (and the one in the distance) was made of galvanized pipe and capped on the ends. </p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=743285"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/285/743285_d57c07760b_m.jpg" alt="gleeson graves" title="gleeson graves" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The majority of graves within this cemetery were created with modest materials, such as concrete slabs, fencing, and rock.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/10/gleeson_graves~1029853/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/10/gleeson_graves~1029853/Thu, 10 Aug 2006 20:48:06 +0200 <p>Just a stone-throw away from the Gleeson jailhouse stood the ruins of the old town school. When I drove upon this abandoned structure it was like approaching an old Roman ruin. The pillars of the once grand entrance and the exterior walls where the only elements still standing.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=738639"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/639/738639_2b44146c86_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" alt="gleeson school w-cloud" title="gleeson school w-cloud" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>I tried to find additional information about the school on the Internet that I could add here, such as the name, when it was built, and how many students once attended, but like Gleeson itself, there isn't much documented information on this historic town.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=738640"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/640/738640_67dcb88aea_m.jpeg" alt="gleeson school" title="gleeson school" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>As the looming mid-day April sun beamed down, I admired the adobe walls and artifacts such as old bottles lying within the interior of the building. Most of the once standing tin roof laid in scattered remnants around the entire site.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=738641"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/641/738641_d53327d31f_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" alt="gleeson school 5" title="gleeson school 5" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Like the rest of the ruins in Gleeson, this structure is weathering time in relative isolation, off the beat and path of everyday Arizona tourists. What I found interesting while exploring this region is that most of the ghost towns have not been defaced by vandalism and graffiti. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/08/the_gleeson_school~1023590/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/08/the_gleeson_school~1023590/Tue, 08 Aug 2006 17:31:44 +0200 <p>When I arrived in Gleeson for the first time, I actually drove right through it. The fact that I was in the middle of nowhere, in a rental, and traveling at a high rate of speed did not help my situation. When I got out of my car and pulled out the Tombstone Visitor Center's Gleeson directions/history photocopy, I realized I was standing next to the town's former hospital (below).</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=728429"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/429/728429_3093a89118_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="gleeson hospital" title="gleeson hospital" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>While walking around in the hot desert heat on that quiet summer day, it was easy to imagine how the daily functions of this town in the late 1800s. The town's general store and former saloon (below) was likely the center of commerce and entertainment. Where daily mail arrived on stage-coach and passengers boarded to head out of town. The mesquite tree standing in front of the saloon probably dates back to when this town was in its mining prime.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=728405"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/405/728405_e060ddeaa2_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="general store" title="general store" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>It was exciting for me to be here in this town. It was facinating to think about a young man leaving his family and his country behind in Ireland and now here he was mining in America in a town named after himself. There isn't much printed about John Gleeson on the web, but I was eager to learn more.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=728391"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/391/728391_e7c71abf42_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="gleeson school (adobe wall)" title="gleeson school (adobe wall)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p>The jailhouse (below) was still in great condition. When I entered the jailhouse, I remember thinking to myself that it was rather small. It was easy to distinguish where the detainees resided when this jail was active. The window bars were still secured within the walls. The jailhouse sat a top of a small hilltop and provided good visibility of the general store, the hospital, and the mines off in the distance. The town's sheriff could have easily strolled down to the saloon, armed with a six-shooter, and pick-up anyone in who might have been causing trouble.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=728406"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/406/728406_67fe4a5df0_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="gleeson jail" title="gleeson jail" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>What was unique about being in Gleeson was much of the town was standing in some form or another. The dry Arizona weather has preserved the adobe structures of these old towns and they are in relatively good condition. There was more of Gleeson to see than many of the other ghost towns that I had a chance to see. Gleeson is so far removed from civilization, it seem likely that it is not explored by the masses. It is relatively undisturbed. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/03/gleeson_the_schoolhouse~1011273/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/08/03/gleeson_the_schoolhouse~1011273/Thu, 03 Aug 2006 18:13:04 +0200 <p>It was a beautiful Arizona morning in Tombstone (below) when I decided to inquire about ghost towns in southern Arizona. Fortunately, there was a very friendly woman working the desk of the Tombstone Visitor Center, and she seemed almost happy when I told her I was interested in ghost towns in the area. A sort of smile broke on her face as she pulled a three ring binder from beneath the counter. She scrolled to the back and pull out one of her last photocopied pages containing direction and a brief description of Gleeson, Arizona.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=722617"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/617/722617_61e7bf9c26_m.jpeg" align="" alt="Main Street" title="Main Street" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>When she handed me the over produced photocopy, she asked what kind of car I was driving. I told her it was a four-door KIA. She paused for a moment, and then I told her it was a rental. Then she claimed "well then, there is nothing to worry about now is there." Then she told me to make sure I had enough water.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=722621"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/621/722621_6e8b56241e_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="gleeson sign 1" title="gleeson sign 1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Gleeson, Arizona is a very remote town located about 30 miles northwest of Tombstone, It can be found on a remote stretch of road, now known as the Ghost Town Trail. The Ghost Town Trail spans the Desert of Cochise County and threads through the deserted towns of Gleeson, Courtland, and Pearce. Most of the trail is unimproved dirt road navigating through desert wildlife, roaming cattle, and beautiful views of the Dragoon Mountains off in the distance.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=722726"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/726/722726_d2c75816f2_m.jpeg" align="" alt="mine scafolding 2" title="mine scafolding 2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The area around Gleeson had a long history of mining. Indians, most likely Apache, who resided in southern Arizona, mined turquoise in the Dragoon Mountains up until white mining pioneers arrived in the 1870s. The first pioneer encampment was named Turquoise and it's post office was established 1890. The Turquoise mine operated until 1894, when a miner by the name of Jimmy Pearce, who discovered gold, opened his Commonwealth Mine in 1894, just down the road from Turquoise. John Gleeson worked for a brief period in the mining town of Pearce, but then settled on the eastern tip of the Dragoon Mountains in an area once known as Turquoise.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=722689"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/689/722689_80ade78f00_m.jpeg" align="" alt="mine tower 2" title="mine tower 2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>John Gleeson was born in Ireland in 1861, possibly around Tipperary. He immigrated to Mount Pleasant, Iowa in 1879 at the age of 18. Shortly after settling in Iowa, he moved west to Breckenridge, Colorado where he worked gold mines in the area. After working in Colorado for brief time, he moved to Tombstone. From Tombstone, John Gleeson migrated within the region of Arizona and New Mexico from mining town to mining town. In 1897, John Gleeson laid claim to the Copper Bell Mine and assisted in the foundation of the town that bore his name.</p> <p>Resources...</p> <p><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gleeson,_Arizona">Wikipedia.com: "Gleeson Arizona"</a><br> <a href="http://www.ghosttowns.com/states/az/gleeson.html">Ghosttowns.com: "Gleeson, Arizona"</a><br> <a href="http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/az/cochise/bios/gleeson.txt">USGenWeb Project: John Gleeson Biography</a><br> <a href="http://genforum.genealogy.com/gleeson/messages/18.html">Genealogy.com: "Gleeson, Arizona, John & Elizabeth 1890s"</a><br> <a href="http://www.rozylowicz.com/retirement/tombstone/tombstone.html#gleeson">Rozylowicz.com: "Gleeson - A Turquoise Mining Town"</a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/07/31/introduction_to_gleeson_arizona~1003895/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/07/31/introduction_to_gleeson_arizona~1003895/Mon, 31 Jul 2006 21:59:05 +0200 <p>This past April a friend of mine and I decided to take a trip from our dull location and head out to Chiricahua National Monument in southwest tip of Arizona. The monument is near the Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexican border. Once we passed Wilcox and turned south off of Interstate 10, baron desert surrounded us for many miles. Then in the far off distant, among the rolling hills of the southwest landscape, the Chiricahua Mountains seemed to rise from the desert floor.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=664759"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/759/664759_13e01bd8a3_m.gif" align="" alt="map" title="map" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Chiricahua is a result of volcanic activity that occurred 27 million years ago. During the 1800s Chiricahua was home to many Apache Indian leaders such as Cochise and Geronimo. The incredible rock formations in this park created excellent hide-sites for Apache warriors who would attack pioneers moving west seeking mining opportunities in the surrounding area.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=664756"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/756/664756_d7bf64bb18_m.jpeg" align="" alt="chiricahua 2" title="chiricahua 2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Once we reached the top of the Chiricahua Mountain, at 6,800 feet above sea level, we set out on foot to see the rock formations up close. Along our trek, we were witness to the vast beauty of this national monument. </p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=664757"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/757/664757_833dbfecf1_m.jpeg" align="" alt="rock w-sculpture" title="rock w-sculpture" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>There were many rocks formed into odd shapes and patterns for as long as the eye could see. This rock settlement (above) was one of many that appeared to be balancing on its own pedestal. This rock formation appeared as if it could give way with a little assistance.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=664760"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/760/664760_0a420695e9_m.jpeg" align="" alt="chiricahua" title="chiricahua" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The trails along the top of the mountain extended for many miles and after about an hour, we decided to head back to our region of the desert and our long journey home. </p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=664761"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/761/664761_408bc52f15_m.jpeg" align="" alt="sculpture (chiricahua)" title="sculpture (chiricahua)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Chiricahua National Monument is one of the most spectacular displays of nature I have ever been able to see. It was one of those places I know that I will probaly never visit again. I was very pleased that I took the time and effort to journey to this remote location and photograph it.</p> <p>If you would like to learn more about the Chiricahua National Monument, here are some links of reference.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nps.gov/chir/">Chiricahua National Park Website</a><br> <a href="http://www.go-arizona.com/Chiricahua-Mountains">Arizona Tourism Website</a><br> <a href="http://gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_nm/az_chiri.htm">Go Orbit Website</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/07/04/chiricahua_national_monument~933085/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/07/04/chiricahua_national_monument~933085/Tue, 04 Jul 2006 20:21:42 +0200 <p>Here are some photographs of a spectacular sunset I captured during the end of March in Arizona. These images are within Coronado National Park, just outside Fort Huachuca, looking toward the Whetstone Mountains and Mexico.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=649823"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/823/649823_586bfb00b2_m.jpeg" align="" alt="dirt road (huachuca res 6)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The image above is overlooking the Whetstone Mountains about an hour before sunset. I was in the process of leaving Fort Huachuca, listening to classic rock tunes, and heading into Coronado National Park when I saw these clouds passing to my right. Clouds are a rarity in Arizona during spring. I decided to take my rental car over some rough terrain and head south to captures both the clouds and the mountains in the distance.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=649824"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/824/649824_5722ffca28_m.jpeg" align="" alt="huachuca sunset 4 (final)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Once I photographed the Whetstone Mountains, I headed off Fort Huachuca and into Coronado National Park. Coronado National Park is a large protected forest, consisting of the Huachuca Mountains and beautiful vistas in southern Arizona. This image is looking toward the Mexican border just prior to sunset. The rain clouds continued to pass, with light rain showers forming just to the right of this image. I was sitting upon a hilltop, with the car doors open, with the radio blasting Pink Floyd, in the middle of nowhere as the sun headed for the horizon.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=649825"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/825/649825_7d57d2ebc3_m.jpeg" align="" alt="wind-mill sunset 2 (final)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>I had been in Arizona for two months and passed numerous windmills during my journey across southern Arizona. Windmills are a main stay on ranches and used to pump water from underground aquifers for grazing cattle. As I was making my way through Coronado National Park, I finally came across a windmill I could get close to without the fear of being shot for trespassing. Arizona in many ways is still considered the Wild West. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/06/26/huachuca_sunset~913788/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/06/26/huachuca_sunset~913788/Mon, 26 Jun 2006 20:32:26 +0200 <p>The beautiful Whetstone Mountains lie in the south central portion of Arizona, near the Mexico border. The ridgeline can be seen on the left when traveling north on route 90 from Sierra Vista to Benson. The highest point within this mountain range is 6,628 feet above sea level.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=594656"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/656/594656_6bc3921508_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="Whetstone Sunset 3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>These photographs were taken in late March. This was the first evening in which I had enough time to spot a location, setup, and wait for the coming sunset. Sierra Vista, for the most part, is surrounded by mountain ranges. Therefore, depending on drive time, I could setup virtually in any direction to capture a sunset. Fortunately, the Whetstone Mountains was a short 20-minute drive, and allowed me to capture photographs of the mountains with the sun setting behind them.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=594739"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/739/594739_43216e3136_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="Whetstone Sunset 7" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>One of the items I like most about Arizona is there are vast spaces with many of beautiful vistas overlooking mountains, landscapes, and sunsets. I spent hours driving southern Arizona, during my leisure time, looking at many different towns and landscapes along the way.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/06/04/whetstone_mountains_arizona~852806/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/06/04/whetstone_mountains_arizona~852806/Sun, 04 Jun 2006 11:55:51 +0200 <p>Well it has now been two weeks since I said goodbye to my good friends and Fort Huachuca, Arizona for a return to soggy England. As they say here, I'm currently on holiday, and this newfound freedom has allowed me to get reacquainted with my family, friends, and former routines. Over the past couple of days I've begun pulling the multiple rolls of film cassettes from my camera bag and have started the film development process. Developing these images allows me to reflect back on the nine weeks I spent in southern Arizona.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=583868"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/868/583868_cf9c83d358_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="huachuca rock (final)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>I am grateful that I was provided the opportunity to get back to the desert southwest. Having been born in New Mexico there are certain aspects of Arizona that remind me of my childhood. There were many weekend afternoons where I found myself driving on clear blue days, in the middle of nowhere, with the windows down, listening to classic rock tunes, and feeling like I was home. There is a beauty to be found in desert landscapes framed by beautiful mountains, and there is a certain amount of enjoyment I gained from those moments.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=583752"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/752/583752_81a17c0ea2_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="stagecoach (final)" vspace="3" hspace="3"></a></p> <p>In addition to long drives, I was able to see many historic places of the old west. Places where the legends of Geronimo and Wyatt Earp still stand. Many of these mining towns came to being during the gold rush days of the 1800s and died shortly thereafter. Tombstone (pictured above) is now mostly a tourist town, which continues to mine and live off the fabled story of the OK Corral. There are many other towns, like Tombstone, that are now deserted and were also active in this region of Arizona during the 1800s. Many of which were much more violent than Tombstone during their glory days in mining. Some of which I will be writing about in coming weeks.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=584073"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/073/584073_7befad0db1_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="wisping clouds (final)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Most importantly, I will always think about the great people I met and had the opportunity to spend time with in Arizona. The experiences we shared were an educational experiences in themselves. I will always have fond memories of the Sports Gallery, karaoke, George Thorogood, mining in Gleeson, eating in Tombstone, and drinking in Bisbee. To all of those who made that hell-a-shish time special, this Bud's for you. Take care and stay tuned...</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=584242"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/242/584242_637658ef1c_m.jpeg" height="250" width="385" align="" alt="cacti (final)" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Summary of Photographs:</p> <p>1. "Huchuca Rock" - Huachuca Mountain<br> 2. "Stagecoach" - Tombstone, Arizona<br> 3. "Wisping Clouds" - Huachuca Mountain<br> 4. "Cacti" - Hucachuca Mountain Overlooking Sierra Vista, Arizona </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/05/30/fort_huachuca_roll_1_march_18~841373/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/05/30/fort_huachuca_roll_1_march_18~841373/Tue, 30 May 2006 19:00:26 +0200 <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/wimpole-with-statuette.jpg" title="wimpole statue"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/wimpole-with-statuette_small.jpg" border="0" alt="wimpole statue"></a></p> <p>Wimpole, United Kingdom<br> January 28th, 2006<br> Ilford FP4 Plus </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/02/01/wimpole_united_kingdom~526254/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/02/01/wimpole_united_kingdom~526254/Wed, 01 Feb 2006 20:19:18 +0100 <p>In late October '05 I visited Schwetzingen, Germany on a business trip. I did absolutely no research on this city prior to my arrival. Therefore, I had no idea what lay in store for me when I arrived. I was in Schwetzingen for a week. Each day, after work, I would pick up my camera and set out on foot to see what I could discover. On my first afternoon, by mistake, I found Schwetzingen Castle. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/castle-path_01.jpg" title="castle path"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/castle-path_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt="castle path"></a></p> <p>I went back to the castle for two consecutive days. On my second visit it was a truly beautiful day, with a nice late afternoon sun. Leaves were in full fall color splendor, and people were out strolling through the castle garden soaking up the last warm days of fall.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/castle-wing.jpg" title="castle wing"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/castle-wing_small.jpg" border="0" alt="castle wing"></a></p> <p>The expanse of the castle gardens overwhelmed me. I was constantly in competition against time during each visit. While in the garden, I would traverse from one side to the other attempting to see it all before sunset. Fortunately, I saw most of it, however, I never had enough time to actually see the inside of the castle. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/garden-vase.jpg" title="garden vase"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/garden-vase_small.jpg" border="0" alt="garden vase"></a></p> <p>As with most castles, Schwetzingen Castle came complete with intricate garden vases and beautiful sculptured statues.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/garden-path-2.jpg" title="Garden Path"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/garden-path-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Garden Path"></a></p> <p>This roll of film escaped processing in November. When I developed it this week, I had no idea what would be on it. I was quite surprised to see these images. If you would like to see more of my images of Schwetzingen Castle, in color, please have a look at a previous posting titled <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/index.php/skinny?tag=Castle">"My Amazing Discovery - The Castle"</a> which I documented in November '05.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/28/schwetzingen_castle_continued~514264/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/28/schwetzingen_castle_continued~514264/Sat, 28 Jan 2006 18:57:06 +0100 <p>Crowded locations provide the opportunity for me to engage subjects as an anonymous participant in that moment in time. The lyrical writer Neil Peart once described this relationship: </p> <p><em>"All the world's indeed a stage, and we are merely players, performers and portrayers, each another’s audience outside the gilded cage."</em> ("Limelight" 1981)</p> <p>I don't remember taking the photograph below, nor the woman passing in front of my lens at that moment. After processing this roll of film, this image stood out in my mind as one of the best on the cassette. Engaging a moving stage is a random act of chance, and I never really know how a photograph will turn out until it is developed. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/passing-woman.jpg" title="Passing Woman"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/passing-woman_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Passing Woman"></a></p> <p>After a brief stop at Covent Garden, we headed southwest to Leicester Square. It was cold and just beginning to drizzle. At the intersection of Coventry Street and Charing Cross Road, I saw this gent standing there attempting to keep warm. It took me a minute to meter correctly and take the shot. The entire time he just stood there with his unintended pose. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tickets-sold-here.jpg" title="Tickets Sold Here"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tickets-sold-here_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Tickets Sold Here"></a></p> <p>After taking the photograph I wasn't sure what he might say. I told him "thank you" and he just gave me a smile not saying a word. The truth is, you never know what someone's reaction is going to be in that situation.</p> <p>Once it started raining, I headed back to The Underground. I wanted to experience as much of the network as possible. There is the ability to stay stationary and allow your subjects to change with the arrival and departure of every scheduled tube line. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/scramble.jpg" title="scramble"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/scramble_small.jpg" border="0" alt="scramble"></a></p> <p>Eventually, I ended back at Kings Cross for my journey home. I always find this setting, in front of the electro-scrolling departure board, a captivating subject. People focused on their train's platform assignment and unaware of photographer lurking on the periphery. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/community-officer.jpg" title="community officer"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/community-officer_small.jpg" border="0" alt="community officer"></a></p> <p>If you would like to see more photographs from this experience in London, please check out my sister site at <a href="http://fdense.blogspot.com">Flip Density</a>. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/22/life_in_motion~495067/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/22/life_in_motion~495067/Sun, 22 Jan 2006 13:41:17 +0100 <p>Yesterday we took advantage of the day off and headed to London with no real objective in mind. We departed on the WAGN 1008 from St. Neots on a drizzly morning, which I have now discovered appears to be a typical weather pattern for England this time of year.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/fast-mover.jpg" title="fast mover"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/fast-mover_small.jpg" border="0" alt="fast mover"></a></p> <p>We arrived at King's Cross around eleven. The station did not appear to be as crowded as I would have thought for a Monday morning. Regardless, I love the atmosphere this train station provides.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/kings-cross-(edit).jpg" title="kings cross (e)"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/kings-cross-(edit)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="kings cross (e)"></a></p> <p>I find it quite amusing to sit and photograph people bustling though the transportation network of the city. It is common to find buisness people in their daily routine, trying to catch an article in the daily paper or a cup of coffee on the way to the office. Travelers in a hurry to reach their destination, afraid of missing thier mode of transport.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/turn-style.jpg" title="turn style"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/turn-style_small.jpg" border="0" alt="turn style"></a></p> <p>In the five hours I spent in London, I probably spent half that time wandering the network of Tube lines running throughout the city. Having seen a recent program which documented some of the history surrounding the Underground, I found it quite interesting picking out some of the individual details within the stations I was able to pass through.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tube-tunnel_01.jpg" title="tube tunnel"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tube-tunnel_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt="tube tunnel"></a></p> <p>We enjoyed our time roaming the streets of London and passing our time on the Underground. Living an hour away often prevents us from fully exploring the history of this wonderful city. I hope to have more photographs of this day trip to London later this week. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/17/anonymous_riders~480902/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/17/anonymous_riders~480902/Tue, 17 Jan 2006 21:02:47 +0100 <p>There are advantages to being a visitor in a new environment. When you live in a place for a certain amount of time, you tend to take the scenery around you for granted. I know this was the case when I lived in New Mexico. I didn't fully appreciate the beauty of that region of the country until I left. Now every time I see an Ansel Adams print or a Georgia O'Keefe painting of the Desert Southwest it always makes feel homesick.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/street-with-people-(edit).jpg" title="Cambridge"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/street-with-people-(edit)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Cambridge"></a></p> <p>Being a new resident of England, whenever I arrive in a new village or town it seems I find a captivating image. There is an abundance of material lurking around every street corner. But I often wonder if I was born and raised here, would I fully appreciate the quaintness of the small towns, the history of each community, or the captivating vistas that are scene when traversing townships. How do the residents of this place feel about their community?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/store-front-(edit).jpg" title="store front"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/store-front-(edit)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="store front"></a></p> <p>In every village or town across The Midlands there is a beautiful church in the middle of town. All of which are considerably old. Some have been converted to livable dwellings, and others have been allowed to fall into a state of disrepair. However, all of them are unique in their own way and quite a beautiful site.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/cathedral-(edit).jpg" title="cathedral"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/cathedral-(edit)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="cathedral"></a></p> <p>I captured this image in St. Neots on a foggy night in December. I don't know much about this historic site, but whenever I pass it, I always find myself gazing upward in complete awe. I wonder what people must have thought of this structure, back when it was constructed. </p> <p>Resources and more...</p> <p><a href="http://www.masters-of-photography.com/A/adams/adams.html">Ansel Adams Photography</a><br> <a href="http://www.okeeffemuseum.org/indexflash.php">Georgia O'Keefe Online Museum</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/08/eye_of_the_beholder~451321/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/08/eye_of_the_beholder~451321/Sun, 08 Jan 2006 13:35:06 +0100 <p>Back in my old neighborhood, you might have found one complete half-pipe within a 30 mile radius. I lived in a pretty progressive area with regards to skating in the 80's. Ok, I'm dating myself here. Essentially, there were no skate parks in my city. If you didn't know someone with a half-pipe, you found a shopping mall, a culvert pipe, or you skated street, that simple. There was no term "Extreme Sports." Back then it was simple, fat decks, polyurethane wheels, plywood, some Dead Kennedy's, and gonads.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Duel-Air.jpg" title="duel air"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Duel-Air_small.jpg" border="0" alt="duel air"></a></p> <p>Since the mid 90's, with the advent of ESPN's "X-Games," it seems that "Extreme Sports" and the individual disciplines within the title have exploded. Today, names such as Tony Hawk, Matt Hoffman, and Travis Pastrana, to name a few, are not only household names, they now have video games named after them. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Air-Bike.jpg" title="air bike"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Air-Bike_small.jpg" border="0" alt="air bike"></a></p> <p>When I arrived in England, I was completely surprised to see a complete skate-park built using modern day technology right down the street. In September, the Town Council, who commissioned the project, sparing no expense, opened it to the public. The park came complete with small, medium, and full-size half-pipes.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Air-Board.jpg" title="air board"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Air-Board_small.jpg" border="0" alt="air board"></a></p> <p>I was on-hand during the grand opening. There is nothing like watching individuals soar into the air with complete disregard for their bodies or what may happen next. That is indeed one of the best things about being young. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/04/heaven_is_a_halfpipe~440795/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/04/heaven_is_a_halfpipe~440795/Wed, 04 Jan 2006 19:24:26 +0100 <p>Cambridge is a lovely place if you like shopping or just walking about. I prefer to just walk about. I could spend hours photographing images and blowing through film without a problem. When there aren't enough people to photograph, my son is always happy to plop down and give me a shot.<br> <br><br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/jake-on-wall.jpg" title="child on wall"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/jake-on-wall_small.jpg" border="0" alt="child on wall"></a><br> <br><br> I have found that Cambridge can get quite busy on weekends, especially during the holiday period. I happened to take this photograph at a time when the city was less busy. The image didn't come out as I had imagined it in my mind. The sky came out without detail, and the bikes on the right were to be the main focal point. However, I still like the image as it looks like a photograph that was captured in the 1800s, before the advent of Photoshop and colored filters.<br> <br><br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/college-street-2.jpg" title="college street"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/college-street-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="college street"></a><br> <br><br> The image below probably would have just remained on the hard-drive if it weren’t for the little girl in the bottom right-hand corner, staring into my lens with the most curious of eyes. Thinking back to when I captured this shot, I remember the girl being there in the corner, but I had no idea she was actually in the picture, nor did I realize her presence in the photograph would make the image.<br> <br><br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/girl-in-markeg_01.jpg" title="girl in market"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/girl-in-markeg_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt="girl in market"></a><br> <br></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/02/random_images~434714/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2006/01/02/random_images~434714/Mon, 02 Jan 2006 19:21:29 +0100 <p>On a cold late November day, I headed back to Cambridge where I often find there are many people, places and things to photograph. Toward the end of the day, just before heading back to the bus station, I happened across these three gents sitting on a bench in market center. Prior to my distraction, these three were engaged in a lively debate over something I could not hear. Their lively discussion is what I wanted to capture on film. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/three-wise-men.jpg" title="Three Wise Men"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/three-wise-men_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Three Wise Men"></a></p> <p>When I approached them for the photograph, I was not quick enough getting my settings adjusted. Therefore, the gent on the right, quickly realizing the situation in front of him, popped up and confronted me. Standing in front of him, pondering on what to say, I assured him that I didn't mean to offend, and if it was a problem taking their photograph, then I wouldn't. After a few minutes, we established a dialog and he insisted I take their picture. I refused to take the picture a couple of times, but after repeated requests, I felt obligated. Setting up in front of them, I took this shot. </p> <p>While I thought at the time the picture would turn out like rubbish, I am actually quite pleased with the final image. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/31/three_wise_men~429310/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/31/three_wise_men~429310/Sat, 31 Dec 2005 14:02:29 +0100 <p>This photographic series is a continuation of a morning drive, taken in January 2005. These images focus on an old farmhouse I discovered just outside of a town called Apex on a backcountry road. The house appeared to have been abandoned some time ago, which gave me the ability to walk the property in relative freedom. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Shed.jpg" title="Shed"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Shed_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Shed"></a><br> <em>The Shed</em></p> <p>You can never be too certain whom you are going to meet, what they may say, or what they may do if you are caught photographing on their private land. Fortunately for me, I was able to capture these images unabated.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Nail-and-Loop.jpg" title="Nail and Loop"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Nail-and-Loop_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Nail and Loop"></a><br> <em>Nail with Loop</em></p> <p>Whenever I come across scenes like these, I often wonder how old these items might be? Who may of sat here and why did they leave this chair at that point in time? How did this place look during its peak?</p> <p> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Scared-Chair.jpg" title="scared chair"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Scared-Chair_small.jpg" border="0" alt="scared chair"></a><br> <em>Distressed Wood</em></p> <p>Looking back, I use to find photographic subject matter difficult to find in the countryside of North Carolina. The multitude of winding country roads, farmhouses, and their associated equipment were often times over abundant. I found it became easier to focus on the smaller details of these places, rather than the large macro-images of the farm settings themselves. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Earth.jpg" title="earth"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Earth_small.jpg" border="0" alt="earth"></a><br> <em>Earth</em></p> <p>Having arrived in England now, and in another agricultural environment, I find that there are many similarities to North Carolina, but very different images at the same time. Driving winding country roads here, I find new subjects lurking around every corner and I like the challenge of attempting to discover as many as possible. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/28/an_old_farm_house~422558/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/28/an_old_farm_house~422558/Wed, 28 Dec 2005 19:19:34 +0100 <p>In January 2005 I paid a long overdue visit to an old mill that resides just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina. Yates Mill dates back 200 years and has recently been restored to its original condition.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/yates-mill-(resize).jpg" title="yates mill"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/yates-mill-(resize)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="yates mill"></a></p> <p>This mill was a daily site during my tenure in Wake County. I had often made a mental note to stop and photograph this location on many occasions. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/water-fall-3-(resize).jpg" title="water fall 2"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/water-fall-3-(resize)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="water fall 2"></a></p> <p>Yates Mill was actually water-powered and produced lumber, wheat, corn, and wool during the 1800's. The cascading waterfall is a beautiful site. Fortunately, I was able to get within close enough distance to photograph the falls in their rushing splendor.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/waterfall-5-(resized).jpg" title="waterfall 5"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/waterfall-5-(resized)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="waterfall 5"></a></p> <p>If you would like to see additional pictures of this mill and learn about its long history, check out the links below.</p> <p>References and more...</p> <p><a href="http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/raleigh/yat.htm">National Park Service Website</a><br> <a href="http://www.wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill/default.htm">Wake County Website</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/26/yates_mill_raleigh_n_c~417365/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/26/yates_mill_raleigh_n_c~417365/Mon, 26 Dec 2005 17:02:06 +0100 <p>It was a cool crisp Saturday morning as I managed to get myself up early and head out into the dark countryside. All the elements for an enjoyable drive were in my possession: A hat, gloves, my jeep and a cup of piping hot joe. Back in North Carolina, I use to find solace driving down winding country roads, in the middle of nowhere, looking for old farm houses, churchs, and anything else that might round out a decent photograph. On this Saturday my first stop would be the little village of Kimbolton.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/town-center.jpg" title="town center"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/town-center_small.jpg" border="0" alt="town center"></a></p> <p>As I pulled into the sleepy town, the first rays of light were beginning to illuminate the sky just behind Kimbolton School. Fortunatley for me the Christmas lights were still on display, which was one of the reasons I intended to arrive here just before dawn.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/quiet-street-side.jpg" title="quite street side"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/quiet-street-side_small.jpg" border="0" alt="quite street side"></a></p> <p>After I captured a couple of photographs of Kimbolton, I headed back out into the country side, with no particular destination in mind. I wanted to take full advantage of the morning light, which at this point seemed certain to be spectacular.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/sunrise-2.jpg" title="sunrise"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/sunrise-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="sunrise"></a></p> <p>Normally on drives like this, I am constantly panning from left to right, looking for something to photograph. As I reached the top of a small ridgeline, just outside of Kimbolton, I happened to arrive in excellent position to capture this spectacular sunrise.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/humble-church-2.jpg" title="humble church"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/humble-church-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="humble church"></a></p> <p>I continued on through the countryside. As I was on my way back home, I rounded a sharp curve and this humble church immediately caught my eye. There is something about churchs and tomb stones that always draw my attention. I found this church particularly interesting as it was quite simple in external detail.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tomb-stones.jpg" title="tomb stones"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/tomb-stones_small.jpg" border="0" alt="tomb stones"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/18/a_saturday_morning_drive~396298/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/18/a_saturday_morning_drive~396298/Sun, 18 Dec 2005 15:54:55 +0100 <p>In celebration of the one month anniversary of TSC, a best of series would not be complete without a review of the best blog picks of 2005. Fortunately for this category, there are many sources out there compiling the results. </p> <p><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/time.jpg" border="0" alt="Time"></p> <p>This year <a href="http://www.time.com/">TIME Magazine</a> devoted an entire category to weblogs. The title of this section is called <a href="http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1072872,00.html">"50 Coolest Websites 2005: Blogs"</a>. Within this category, TIME has broken blogs down from Arts and Entertainment to Shopping. Most of the blogs within TIME Magazine's selection are American based. However, don't let that discourage you from having a look to see what's hot in 2005.</p> <p><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/The-BOBs-(resized).jpg" border="0" alt="The BOBs"></p> <p>If you want more of an international flavor in your search for the best blogs of '05, have a look at <a href="http://www.thebobs.de/thebobs05/bob.php?site=allsuggestions_kat&katid=1&page=2&search=">The Best of the Blogs a.k.a. "The BOBs"</a> compiled by a German based mulitimedia company known as <a href="http://www.dw-world.de/dw/0,,3325,00.html">Deuche Welle</a>. The BOBs break their selections of best blogs into Best Multimedia, Best PODCasting, Special Reporter Without Borders Award, and finally, Best Journalistic Blog. The Best Journalistic Blogs are broken down by international languages from Arabic to Spanish.</p> <p><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/rwb.jpg" border="0" alt="reporters without borders"></p> <p>If journalism is strictly your cup of tea, well then, <a href="http://www.rsf.org/blog-awards-en.php3">Reporters Without Borders</a> has composed a list that might be just up your alley. To be on this list of winners you had to be <a href="http://www.rsf.org/article.php3?id_article=12326">"defending free expression."</a> Their objective is to advance information that is under the threat of authoritative censorship. Again, their coverage expands the globe in their search for the best blog of '05.</p> <p><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/photobloggies-(resized).jpg" border="0" alt="photobloggies"></p> <p>Well if you are like me and photography is your ball of wax, then my friend, I have saved the best for last. <a href="http://www.photobloggies.org/ ">Photobloggies'</a> award winners encompassed all the major land masses on the planet. Their rules for being the victor in a category are not exactly clear. Nevertheless, you did have to have "... a website whose primary content is photographs displayed in a log format." If you like photography, this is a must see in your list of blogs. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/14/best_of_blogs~386791/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/14/best_of_blogs~386791/Wed, 14 Dec 2005 19:33:24 +0100 <p>As a continuation of "The Best of 2005" I would like to feature the National Press Photographers Association's (NPPA) <a href="http://bop.nppa.org/2006/">"The Best of Photojournalism (2005)"</a> or "BOP." BOP is a contest designed by photojournalists for photojounalists and is touted as the "...world's leading digital photojounalism contest." </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/lance.jpg" title="lance armstrong"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/lance_small.jpg" border="0" alt="lance armstrong"></a><br> <em>Chris Anderson - 1st in Sports Portfolio</em></p> <p>Now in its fifth year of competition, BOP divides mediums into Still Photography, Photo Editing, Websites, and Television. My personal favorites are centered in <a href="http://www.nppa.org/competitions/best_of_still_photojournalism/2005/photography/winners/">Still Photography</a>. Sports Picture Story and Sport Portfolio happened to include some of my most favorite images from 2005. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/bosox.jpg" title="BoSox"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/bosox_small.jpg" border="0" alt="BoSox"></a><br> <em>Barry Chin - 1st in Best Sports Picture (Go BoSox!)</em></p> <p>As you can see, there are many outstanding images featured in this contest. To all of you "web geeks" out there, check out the listings featured under <a href="http://www.nppa.org/competitions/best_of_still_photojournalism/2005/web/winners/">"Web Editing Winners."</a> There are some hot products listed there. </p> <p>Reference and more...</p> <p><a href="http://www.nppa.org/competitions/best_of_still_photojournalism/2005/">Best of Photojournalism</a><br> <a href="http://www.nppa.org/">National Press Photographers Association</a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/13/best_of_photojournalism~384098/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/13/best_of_photojournalism~384098/Tue, 13 Dec 2005 19:53:11 +0100 <p>In an effort to keep TSC updated with some new material, I decided to post a link to <a href="http://www.time.com/time/yip/2005/">TIME: A Year in Pictures</a> which was released late last week and features some very captivating images from 2005.</p> <p>TIME Magazine has done a brilliant job over the decades of summing up the year with their annual edition of "A Year in Pictures." These visual images often tell volumes of what transpired within our global community during the last year. Having viewed the pictures this morning, it is surprising to realize how many significant events we actually witnessed this year and how many of these events are already passing into a distant memory. </p> <p>If you would like to see more pictures from TIME, you can check out these links below.</p> <p><a href="http://www.time.com/time/photoessays/">TIME: Photo Essays</a><br> <a href="http://www.time.com/time/potw/2005_viewers_choice/">TIME: Pictures of the Week</a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/12/time_a_year_in_pictures~380481/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/12/time_a_year_in_pictures~380481/Mon, 12 Dec 2005 15:30:21 +0100 <p>I was on hand to capture some images of the recent St. Neot's Christmas light celebration. The event consisted of carnival rides, a parade, and a short firework celebration to top it all off. All these events took place just before the lights along High Street were illuminated on a wicked cold Friday night on November 25th.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Spin-1.jpg" title="spinning wheels"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Spin-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="spinning wheels"></a></p> <p>There is something about being in the company of children all bundled up from head to toe, watching them running around being captivated by the illuminated lights against the night sky. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Spin-2.jpg" title="spinning wheels 2"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/Spin-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="spinning wheels 2"></a></p> <p>It was nice to be on-hand for the official beginning of Christmas. When you don't attend one of these events in your own hometown, the month of December seems to slip on by. Witnessing an event such as this, allows me to establish a benchmark in my own mind, as if I have a fresh start on the season. However, I do realize that this Christmas, like all the others before it, will pass in an instant. Therefore, time is of the essence, and it is essential to enjoy the time, the celebrations, and the people we have around us during the coming month of Christmas. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/06/christmas_and_the_rides_in_motion~365698/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/12/06/christmas_and_the_rides_in_motion~365698/Tue, 06 Dec 2005 20:03:59 +0100 <p>It was an overcast fall afternoon in Schwetzingen, Germany. I had just finished training for the day. I felt fortunate to have just returned from Ireland the week prior, and now I was standing here in Germany. I had arrived in Frankfurt the night prior, driven the Autobahn south to this lovely little town of 22,000, which lies just outside of Heidelberg. It was now time for some exploring. I threw my camera over my shoulder and head out, on foot, to see what I could find. To my amazement, I discovered my hotel was within blocks of Schwetzingen Castle.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(front)-resized.jpg" title="Schwetzingen Castle Front"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(front)-resized_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Schwetzingen Castle Front"></a></p> <p>On my first attempt to visit the castle grounds, I had arrived right at closing. My surprise discovery quickly turned into dissapointment. The next day, I finshed training early, raced back to my hotel, changed, grabbed my camera, and headed promptly to the castle. Fortunately on this day, it was a beautiful sunny October afternoon. The temperature was in the mid 60s and all of the garden trees were in full change of color. It was a spectacular site.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(right)-resized.jpg" title="Castle Right"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(right)-resized_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Castle Right"></a></p> <p>Once inside, I discovered many of the locals had decided that the castle grounds were an excellent place to enjoy the lovely fall afternoon. Mothers with their children running about. Older couples slowly strolling down garden paths engaged in conversation. "What might they be discussing" I thought to myself as they passed by speaking a foreign dialect.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(path)-resized.jpg" title="Castle Path"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(path)-resized_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Castle Path"></a></p> <p>Once I realized how expansive the grounds were, I became the mad photographer, trying to cover as much ground as possible before sunset. On my way down one of the paths, I came across this fella. The trick here was to come up unnoticed, and catch him in action tending his garden. While the picture didn't turn out as well as I would have liked, the image before me was perfect. The sun was illustrating mulitcolor rainbows as the light passed throught the individual streams of water. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-gardener-resized.jpg" title="Gardener"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-gardener-resized_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Gardener"></a></p> <p>He quickly realized my presence and couldn't understand why I wanted to photograph him. Feeling uncomfortable with the situation, he attempted to engage me in conversation. We realized quickly that he and I didn't speak the same language. We did manage to convey that he was from Poland and I was from America. We sort of became friends in that brief instant as he allowed me to pass through. Shortly thereafter, he watched as I fell into the pond immediately behind him while I was setting up for another shot. He tried to play it off like it wasn't funny, but my entire right leg was soaked past my right knee. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(garden)-resized.jpg" title="Castle Garden"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/schwetzingen-castle-(garden)-resized_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Castle Garden"></a></p> <p>Each of the indivual garden layouts were intricate hedge workings intermixed with beautiful patterns of flowers. There were stone sculptures throughout, some with fountains dating back to the Renaissance period. It was an amazing time, feeling completely alone with my camera, passing by the locals, and enjoying the day. </p> <p>It wasn't until the next day that I realized that this castle is one of the most important castles in Germany.</p> <p>References and more...</p> <p><a href="http://www.zum.de/Faecher/G/BW/Landeskunde/rhein/swetz/info_e.htm">http://www.zum.de/Faecher/G/BW/Landeskunde/rhein/swetz/info_e.htm</a><br> <a href="http://www.tompgalvin.com/places/de/baden_wuerttemberg/schwetzingen.htm">http://www.tompgalvin.com/places/de/baden_wuerttemberg/schwetzingen.htm</a><br> <a href="http://www.cvb-heidelberg.de/e925/e928/e2195/index_eng.html">http://www.cvb-heidelberg.de/e925/e928/e2195/index_eng.html</a><br> <a href="http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/schwetzingen.html">http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/schwetzingen.html</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/30/my_amazing_discovery_the_castle~350341/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/30/my_amazing_discovery_the_castle~350341/Wed, 30 Nov 2005 20:01:44 +0100 <p>Neil Peart once wrote:</p> <p><em>“I let my skin get too thin<br> I’d like to pause,<br> No matter what I pretend<br> Like some pilgrim who learns to transcend<br> Learns to live<br> As if each step was the end--”</em> (Time Stand Still, 1987)</p> <p>The time spent in Dublin was the pinnacle of our two week journey. There were many things we did there we could now lay claim to being the first. The journey was more than just dibs on first, and probably somewhat different for each of us in our own minds. However, in the end, I think we gained a better understanding of each other and Dublin.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-street-pub.jpg" title="oconnell street pub"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-street-pub_small.jpg" border="0" alt="oconnell street pub"></a></p> <p>When the aircraft went “wheels up” from Stansted, the only certainties for us were: We knew where we were going to put our heads down for the night, and that place was close to the Liffey, O’Connell Street, and Trinity College. An educated man can deduce that if we were close to a college, then the elements of an entertaining weekend must be near.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/street-musician.jpg" title="street musician"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/street-musician_small.jpg" border="0" alt="street musician"></a></p> <p>It is always a challenge overcoming unfamiliar surroundings when you first arrive somewhere. Transportation methods are a quick second. These were not unique factors during our stint. The perforated edges of our “Inside Out Guide” pop-out map were completely torn on all pages at the completion of our trip. Unexpectedly, I went brain dead trying to master the compass and the map when we arrived. This was a shortcoming that Jesus never let me forget.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-street-2_01.jpg" title="O\"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-street-2_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt="O\"></a></p> <p>In retrospect, I sincerely think not having a planned agenda contributed to the success of our journey. I am a Virgo. As such, I like routine and a well thought out plan. Basically, at times, I can be anal about these things I will admit. However, there is something to be said about jumping into things and seeing where predetermination will take you.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-3.jpg" title="O"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/oconnell-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt="O"></a></p> <p><em>"I ain't sayin she's a gold digga..."</em> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/27/summation~341534/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/27/summation~341534/Sun, 27 Nov 2005 16:26:56 +0100 <p>There was something very stimulating about being near that historic river. Maybe it was the brilliant colors, the crisp October air, or the beauty of bridges spanning the waterway that drew my attention. Perhaps it was the busy city life, the passing of multi-level busses, and the dance that transpired between pedestrians and us along Wellington Quay. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-2-(resized).jpg" title="river liffey 2"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-2-(resized)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="river liffey 2"></a></p> <p>It is said that the river, which is the center of Dublin in many ways, inherited her name from Anna Livia Plurabelle, whom the famous Irish writer James Joyce characterized in “Finnegans Wake” (1939).</p> <p><em>“His sons are the sundered halves of the creative power, synthesis degenerate into antitheses, and the wife is the river, which eventually always must be the Liffey as all the cities must eventually be Dublin." (SubGregious)</em></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-3-(resized).jpg" title="river liffey 3"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-3-(resized)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="river liffey 3"></a></p> <p>Nevertheless, every evening I felt myself drawn to leave my mates in Temple Bar and head to the river to capture some photographs. Fortunately for me, my camera managed to calculate aperature and speed better than me in my altered state.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-1-(resized).jpg" title="river liffey 1"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-1-(resized)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="river liffey 1"></a></p> <p>There is a beauty that occurs at night when the elements of color, reflection, and shutter speed all come together.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-4-(resized).jpg" title="river liffey 4"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/liffey-4-(resized)_small.jpg" border="0" alt="river liffey 4"></a></p> <p>References and more…</p> <p><a href="http://www.robotwisdom.com/jaj/fwake/">http://www.robotwisdom.com/jaj/fwake/</a><br> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Joyce">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Joyce</a><br> <a href="http://www.iol.ie/~ndnsp/rivers/liffey1.htm">http://www.iol.ie/~ndnsp/rivers/liffey1.htm</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/22/anna_livia_plurabelle_and_the_liffey~329396/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/22/anna_livia_plurabelle_and_the_liffey~329396/Tue, 22 Nov 2005 19:23:00 +0100 <p>Once the three of us arrived in Dublin and settled into our hotel, we headed for the River Liffey, Trinity College, and of course, Temple Bar. A trip to Dublin would not have been complete for three men on a bit of a stag without a journey into the Temple Bar quarter.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-2.jpg" title="temple bar 2"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="temple bar 2"></a></p> <p>The actual story of Temple Bar is not that old. In fact, The Temple Bar Quarter was entrusted to a “government sponsored body” in 1991 to preserve the area, create a cultural center, and attract visitors from all over.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-3.jpg" title="temple bar 3"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt="temple bar 3"></a></p> <p>We arrived at Temple Bar at about half three on a Thursday. A grid of cobble stone streets encompassed an area complete with historic buildings, Irish pubs, contemporary restaurants, and a cultural environment that is uniquely Dublin. On any given evening you could find people of all ages wondering up and down the cobble stone streets. Listening to musicians, stopping in for dinner, a show, or a pint.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-1.jpg" title="temple bar 1"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/temple-bar-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="temple bar 1"></a></p> <p>The Temple Bar quarter ended up being our point of reference for sub-excursions into Dublin, a rendezvous point if we split up, and a place were we summed up each days activities over a pint. While we stopped into most of the pubs within the quarter, we always seemed to end the evening at The Temple Bar.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/the-temple-bar-1.jpg" title="the temple bar"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/the-temple-bar-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="the temple bar"></a></p> <p>Black and white photos of this area will be updated soon. </p> <p>More info and reference…</p> <p><a href="http://www.temple-bar.ie/">http://www.temple-bar.ie/</a><br> <a href="http://homepage.eircom.net/~seanjmurphy/dublin/templebar.htm">http://homepage.eircom.net/~seanjmurphy/dublin/templebar.htm</a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/20/temple_bar_quarter_dublin_ireland~323318/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/20/temple_bar_quarter_dublin_ireland~323318/Sun, 20 Nov 2005 18:12:30 +0100 <p>It was a chilly day for three American friends who had never been to Ireland, let alone Dublin. There we were, finally, in the home of Sir Arthor Guinness, St. James Gate, and the Liffey River. The idea to travel to Ireland occurred for the first time on March 17th, 1996 over multiple pints of Guinness in Raleigh, North Carolina. March 17th is known as St. Patrick’s Day in the United States, and it is celebrated from coast to coast whether you are a true blooded Irishman or not. Fortunately for us, we three felt like Irishmen as the open-topped bus pulled along side St. Patrick's Cathedral that dreary Sunday afternoon.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(outside)-1.jpg" title="St. Patrick"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(outside)-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="St. Patrick"></a></p> <p>The establishment of St. Patrick's Cathedral is not well recorded. However, St. Patrick arrived in Ireland in 432 and died in Saul, Ireland around 461. St. Patrick baptized converts to Catholicism in the park adjacent to the cathedral, which is commeorated by an Celtic Cross. After St. Patrick’s death in 461, a wooden chapel was erected to honor him. In 1192 the cathedral, which is seen today, was constructed.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-1.jpg" title="Interior, St. Patricks Cathedral"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="Interior, St. Patricks Cathedral"></a></p> <p>The nave collapsed in 1544 and the cathedral continued to fall into disrepair until 1792 when reconstruction began, but only at a limited rate. In 1860 Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness funded a complete restoration of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and it was reopened on 24 February, 1865 on St. Matthias Day to the public.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-3.jpg" title="interior 3"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt="interior 3"></a></p> <p>Having landed myself in Ireland and St. Patrick's Cathedral, after all these years, I felt as if I had completed my personal journey to Mecca. Jesus, Bob, and myself were in complete awe of this expansive interior. We spoke silently and divided ourselves across the interior snapping photograph after photograph. Having been raised in the United States, it was unbelievable for me to imagine myself in a place with this much history. The United States and its' history is relatively new in comparison. Therefore, to arrive somewhere in which you have only seen in history books, it becomes a real honor to lay claim to that moment in time.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pat-(inside-resized)-2.jpg" title="inside 2"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pat-(inside-resized)-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt="inside 2"></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-4.jpg" title="inside 4"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/st-pats-(inside-resized)-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt="inside 4"></a></p> <p>As a whole, I was dissappointed at what resulted from this roll of film. Having not had the right lens for interior photography, most of my images of the interior seemed choppy. This was also the same result for the exterior as well. However, I really like the way this picture came out, which focuses entirely on the elements within the stain glass. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/stain-glass-(resized)-1.jpg" title="stain glass"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/stain-glass-(resized)-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt="stain glass"></a></p> <p>In summary, it was another perfect day in Dublin having completed one of our primary objectives. At the very least, the three of us will have bragging rights the next time we find ourselves in a pub on March 17th while sipping on a pint of that magical black brew. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/17/st_patrick_s_cathedral_dublin_ireland_oc~316292/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/17/st_patrick_s_cathedral_dublin_ireland_oc~316292/Thu, 17 Nov 2005 21:57:09 +0100 <p>I'm sitting here during a long slow Tuesday, looking at this newly created blog. Pondering the potential, confused by the "blogging" terminology, but excited to take this infant site somewhere creative.</p> <p>This is day two of the "The Skinny Chronicles." The plan to develope this site came yesterday afternoon after wondering how and where I can pose my photography to a wider audience. I've been in a dilemma on changing careers for quite awhile now. Recently, I have been playing with the idea of Photojournalism as I have an extreme interest in photography. I had thought of building a photography related site that would focus on the towns in Cambridgeshire, which would both give a subject for me to photograph, while at the same time, provide people images and insight of the area. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/cambridgeshire-intro_01.jpg" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/s/skinny/img/cambridgeshire-intro_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p>Having moved here only six months ago, I realized prior to the move that it was difficult to find web-based information that provided photographs and the true feel, if you will, of the area. I now sincerely hope to capture some of that here within this blog. Or at least I will try - bear with me.</p> <p><strong><em>A blog solution to The Skinny Chronicles:</em></strong> We've been playing around with a blog at work and it is now my additional duty to administrate it. Another cookie cutter solution I get to claim administrator rights to. However, it seemed like a logical tool to post my photograhy experiment and test my journalistic endeavors. We'll see how it goes.</p> <p><strong><em>A note to those who happen to stumble into this blog. </em></strong> Please check back as this is a work in progress. I hope to get images and stories related to them posted here soon. I would like to capture some of what I have already had the opportunity to experience in England, Scottland, Ireland, and Germany. Lucky me in six months - who would have thought. Please stay tuned and feel free to comment. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/15/news_for_the_unknown~309237/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://skinny.blog.co.uk/2005/11/15/news_for_the_unknown~309237/Tue, 15 Nov 2005 12:47:31 +0100