November 16, 2011

My Gratitude and Thanks

   This picture is to express my sincere gratitude and to give thanks to all men and women who currently serve in our military and to all those who have served in the past. Unfortunately, so many of our soldiers are not given the credit they deserve or the help that some returning soldiers so desperately need. They and their families have sacrificed so much for our country and it's people.  They stand up for our beliefs and rights as Americans, and not only do they fight for them but they are willing to die for them. Those who are willing to lay down their life so that others may continue to live free, to me, are true Heroes.  Some of these men and women will tell you that their military experience was a good one.  However, many will say that it was many things but that the word good is not how they would describe their experience. Many that have sacrificed so much are returning to find that they fought for a country that isn't returning the favor. 

   Many documentaries have been made to bring awareness to this problem that no doubt brings shame on our government and military leaders of this country. These films interview soldiers that have returned home to find that their country has turned their back on them. Some have been injured and cant get the proper medical care for their injuries. Some have terrible P.T.S.D and don't get the proper psychiatric care that a war time veteran needs to return to civilian life safely and effectively. Some are even finding that after their time in the military they cant find work to support their families. No matter what terrible situation these men and women are returning home to,  there is absolutely no excuse for this kind of treatment. They are our country's Heroes. These are our freedom fighters. They deserve much, much better.  So I give any and all of you the utmost respect and gratitude. Thank you for your unmeasurable sacrifice.  I will never take what you do and have done for granted. May God bless you and your family, forever and always.

November 08, 2011

Taking Down Prey Like a Pack of Wolves

   Once in a great while I am fortunate enough to come across a spectacular display of nature in it's purest form.  A moment in time that can not be duplicated or constructed for the convenience of a photographer.  This is shot is an example of this one of a kind moment that as a photographer, you love to capture.  However, if you happen to be caught off guard and unprepared for the shot, the once in a lifetime opportunity will pass by, leaving you very disappointed in the whole situation.
   Actually, I didn't spot this prime example of nature's predator and prey system.  It was spotted by my daughter as we were hiking in Kingdom Come State Park in Cumberland, KY.  I always get hassled by my wife and daughter for taking too many photos while we hike. They say that I take too long and hiking should involve more walking than standing. .  To help solve this dilemma, I tell them to explore and look closely at their surroundings for something that would make a great photography subject and at the same time be very interesting to them. As my daughter was exploring she suddenly yelled with excitement and joy, "Hey dad hurry, come look what I found. You have  got to see this." So I have to give her credit for helping capture this spectacular image.
  

November 03, 2011

Patiently Waiting

   Dolmedes Albineus, a.k.a. the Withe Banded Fishing Spider, is the only tree dwelling fishing spider found in the United States. 
   I have always been fascinated by insects and arachnids. Basically any bug like creatures have always been very interesting to me as a child and as an adult.  They are amazing and spectacular to study as well as great photography challenges.   Their unique and individual complex body structures are one of my favorite characteristics.  Their wonderful colors and patterns help them blend into their surroundings for purpose of hunting or hiding but for me it makes for some very interesting shots.
  This spider was patiently waiting for the next insect to attempt to gather the rich pollen from the flower.  Awaiting it's victim, the spider was visually stunning, as it appeared to be so completely composed and present, ready to spring into action at the first sign of struggle from the unfortunate one who never saw it coming.