
Journal
“Blogging is like work, but without coworkers thwarting you at every turn.”
Creating and maintaining a photography site—even a personal one—is surprisingly a lot of work. Things never seem to fit the page the way you want them to. You constantly find yourself rearranging text and images randomly until something "clicks," and you achieve that look you didn't know you wanted.
Bald Eagle State Forest, PA, Fall 2024
After days of winding through the rugged backwoods, I found myself at Bald Eagle State Park in PA, where I traded the tent for a log cottage and a few more creature comforts. The park is a blend of thick forests, sprawling lakes, and enough trails to get lost in a few times over. Early mornings were marked by mist lifting off Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, perfect for some moody shots that even the camera seemed to enjoy as much as I did.
From there, I made my way up to Hyner View, a killer overlook that’s worth every single switchback and steep stretch. Watching the sun sink below the Pennsylvania hills from that high point was surreal, as was seeing a few paragliders daring the drop. Nothing but a big sky and rolling green hills below – the kind of view that reminds you why you bother lugging a camera everywhere.
So here it is, a mix of rustic cabins, misty lakes, and grand views from the state’s best perches. Still can’t believe these spots are just tucked away off the highways.
Hyner View State Park at sunset
After days of winding through the rugged backwoods, I found myself at Bald Eagle State Park in PA, where I traded the tent for a log cottage and a few more creature comforts. The park is a blend of thick forests, sprawling lakes, and enough trails to get lost in a few times over. Early mornings were marked by mist lifting off Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, perfect for some moody shots that even the camera seemed to enjoy as much as I did.
From there, I made my way up to Hyner View, a killer overlook worth every switchback and steep stretch. Watching the sun sink below the Pennsylvania hills from that high point was surreal, as was seeing a few paragliders daring the drop. Nothing but a big sky and rolling green hills below – the kind of view that reminds you why you bother lugging a camera everywhere.
So here it is, a mix of rustic cabins, misty lakes, and grand views from the state’s best perches. Still can’t believe these spots are just tucked away off the highways.
Virginias & North Carolina, Fall 2024
Just wrapped up a journey through some of the best wilderness the East Coast has to offer. From the rolling ridges of Shenandoah and the dense woods of Monongahela to the peaceful waters of Sherando and Falls Lake, each stop had its own vibe. I even made it all the way to the Atlantic winds at Cape Hatteras. This trip was packed with dirt roads, campfires, and way too much coffee – just the way it should be. Here’s a collection of shots that capture the highs (and occasional lows) of the adventure. Enjoy the ride.
Cape Hatteras sunset
Chasing Horizons: Overlanding Through VA, WV, and NC
Just wrapped up a journey through some of the best wilderness the East Coast has to offer. From the rolling ridges of Shenandoah and the dense woods of Monongahela to the peaceful waters of Sherando and Falls Lake, each stop had its own vibe. I even made it all the way to the Atlantic winds at Cape Hatteras. This trip was packed with dirt roads, campfires, and way too much coffee – just the way it should be. Here’s a collection of shots that capture the highs (and occasional lows) of the adventure. Enjoy the ride.
Sunset over Frisco Beach
Sherando Lake, VA
Hatteras Island, NC
Shenandoah National Park, VA
Maryland Renaissance Festival, August 2024
The Maryland Renaissance Festival is a Renaissance fair held annually in Crownsville, Maryland. The festival features a variety of Renaissance-themed attractions, including live entertainment, food, and crafts. The Maryland Renaissance Festival is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Maryland Renaissance Festival is a Renaissance fair held annually in Crownsville, Maryland. It features a variety of Renaissance-themed attractions, including live entertainment, food, and crafts. The festival is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Shenandoah Nation Park, November 2023
Some of my photos from Shenandoah National Park, showcasing its famous Skyline Drive with the winding road among the fall colors. This park is nestled in Virginia and is known for its stunning vistas, especially during the autumn months when the foliage turns into a vibrant palette of oranges, reds, and yellows.
Early sunset over the valley
Some of my photos from Shenandoah National Park, showcasing its famous Skyline Drive with the winding road among the fall colors. This park is nestled in Virginia and is known for its stunning vistas, especially during the autumn months when the foliage turns into a vibrant palette of oranges, reds, and yellows. Shenandoah spans over 200,000 acres of protected lands that are a haven for deer, songbirds, and black bears. The park also offers more than 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The images depict the park's rolling hills, wooded areas, and a tranquil setting that's a big draw for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Longwood Gardens, September 2023
Longwood Gardens, located in Pennsylvania, has long been regarded as a breathtaking oasis for nature enthusiasts. However, as of today, the tranquil beauty that once graced this botanical paradise has been disrupted by the presence of construction. Sadly, the renowned lily garden, which used to enchant visitors with a vibrant display of colors, has disappeared, leaving only a bare patch of earth. Additionally, the once-flourishing meadow, a sanctuary teeming with delicate wildflowers, has also been transformed into a dusty construction site. While the current state may be seen as a mess, there is hope that once the construction is complete, Longwood Gardens will regain its former splendor, capturing the hearts of visitors once again.
Autumn flower garden
Longwood Gardens, located in Pennsylvania, has long been regarded as a breathtaking oasis for nature enthusiasts. However, as of today, the tranquil beauty that once graced this botanical paradise has been disrupted by the presence of construction. Sadly, the renowned lily garden, which used to enchant visitors with a vibrant display of colors, has disappeared, leaving only a bare patch of earth. Additionally, the once-flourishing meadow, a sanctuary teeming with delicate wildflowers, has also been transformed into a dusty construction site. While the current state may be seen as a mess, there is hope that once the construction is complete, Longwood Gardens will regain its former splendor, capturing the hearts of visitors once again.
Otsego Lake & Cooperstown, September 2023
Otsego Lake and Cooperstown, where nature meets America's pastime. The lake's a gem—perfect for those misty morning shots or capturing the sunset's reflection. As for Cooperstown, it's like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting, only with more baseball jerseys. Snap the Hall of Fame if you must, but don't overlook the small-town charm and rustic landscapes.
Kingfisher Tower, Otsego Lake
Otsego Lake and Cooperstown, where nature meets America's pastime. The lake's a gem—perfect for those misty morning shots or capturing the sunset's reflection. As for Cooperstown, it's like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting, only with more baseball jerseys. Snap the Hall of Fame if you must, but don't overlook the small-town charm and rustic landscapes.
Quebec City, September 2023
Quebec City is a photographer's dream, no doubt. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and that European vibe without crossing the Atlantic. You've got the iconic Château Frontenac, the Mona Lisa of hotel photography. Don't even get me started on the views from the Citadel. You're doing it wrong if your camera's not weeping with joy. Just brace yourself for the tourist hordes; they're as inevitable as lens flare in a J.J. Abrams film.
Quebec City
Quebec City is a photographer's dream, no doubt. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and that European vibe without crossing the Atlantic. You've got the iconic Château Frontenac, the Mona Lisa of hotel photography. Don't even get me started on the views from the Citadel. You're doing it wrong if your camera's not weeping with joy. Just brace yourself for the tourist hordes; they're as inevitable as lens flare in a J.J. Abrams film.
Nova Scotia, August 2023
Nova Scotia's a mixed bag of maritime glory and Cape Breton Highlands Park is its crown jewel. Think cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic, making even your camera question its life choices. The Cabot Trail? It's the winding road your lens has been yearning for. Wildlife's a bonus; moose and eagles, if you're into that sort of thing. Just a heads-up: the weather's as moody as a cat denied its dinner, so pack for four seasons. But hey, unpredictable skies make for dramatic shots, right?
The Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island
Nova Scotia's a mixed bag of maritime glory, and Cape Breton Highlands Park is its crown jewel. Think cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic, making even your camera question its life choices. The Cabot Trail? It's the winding road your lens has been yearning for. Wildlife's a bonus; moose and eagles, if you're into that sort of thing. Just a heads-up: the weather's as moody as a cat denied its dinner, so pack for four seasons. But hey, unpredictable skies make for dramatic shots, right?
Cape Breton Highlands Park
Wharton Forest, New Jersey
In August 2023, I decided to escape the daily grind and head out to Wharton State Forest in New Jersey for a solo camping adventure. I set up camp by the serene Atsion Lake, a perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind with nature. The Atsion Family Campground has some decent amenities. After getting my suspension upgraded, I was eager to test it out before heading out on my big trip to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Wharton Forest offers enjoyable and not-too-challenging offroading options that are perfect for a test run.
Wharton Forest, Hawkins Bridge, NJ.
In August 2023, I decided to escape the daily grind and head out to Wharton State Forest in New Jersey for a solo camping adventure. I set up camp by the serene Atsion Lake, a perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind with nature. The Atsion Family Campground has some decent amenities. After getting my suspension upgraded, I was eager to test it out before heading out on my big trip to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Wharton Forest offers enjoyable and not-too-challenging offroading options that are perfect for a test run.
Christmas at Longwood Gardens, December 2022
Longwood Gardens is a botanical garden located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. During the Christmas season, the gardens are decorated with millions of lights, holiday-themed displays, and Christmas trees. Visitors can stroll through the gardens to see the light displays, attend special performances, and participate in holiday-themed activities. Some popular features of the Christmas season at Longwood Gardens include the "Main Fountain Garden," which is decorated with thousands of lights and synchronized fountain displays, and the "Christmas Tree" display, which features a variety of decorated trees. Longwood Gardens' Christmas season typically runs from late November to early January.
Christmas season at Longwood gardens
Longwood Gardens is a botanical garden located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. During the Christmas season, the gardens are decorated with millions of lights, holiday-themed displays, and Christmas trees. Visitors can stroll through the gardens to see the light displays, attend special performances, and participate in holiday-themed activities. Some popular features of the Christmas season at Longwood Gardens include the "Main Fountain Garden," which is decorated with thousands of lights and synchronized fountain displays, and the "Christmas Tree" display, which features a variety of decorated trees. Longwood Gardens' Christmas season typically runs from late November to early January.