The Phototripper Podcast

Beyond Landscapes In a recent trip to Alabama, I decided to show my wife some of the many interesting things that one can find throughout the Deep South.   Having grown up in South Georgia and Alabama as a young man, I knew of a few places that would showcase some of the most interesting and unusual places that Alabama has to offer. As traveling photographers, it is important to keep our eyes open for all opportunities.  I tend to fall into the rut of shooting lots of sweeping landscapes and sometimes avoid the less spectacular, but no less interesting things along the way.  Unlike other areas of the country, the Deep South doesn’t offer the easy to come by landscape scenes.  The landscape is generally flat and there are lots of forested areas that prevent sweeping landscapes.  Not to say that they are not available, just not as common as in the Southwest Desert or West Coast. However, there are true gems to be found in interesting Alabama.  Here are a few that we found on our trip: Cross Garden – Prattville, Alabama Built by William C. Rice over the course of 20 years, the “Cross Garden” in Prattville is something to behold.  Located on county road 86 (Indian Hills Road), the Cross Garden will grab a hold of your senses on first pulling up to the site. Spread along both sides of the road, the Cross Garden is a collection of hundreds of crosses, old washing machines, air conditioners, and refrigerators. A message is clear – repent now or go to Hell, where it is “Hot Hot Hot”! Please specify a Flickr ID for this slideshow Over the course of the years, the site has began to deteriorate, but it is still very visible and in the winter, it is easier to see some of the crosses that are obscured by vegetation at other times of the year. When photographing this location, be mindful that you are on the side of the road.  Also, this is private property, so do not venture far off of the side of the road. The Museum of Wonder  and Mystery – Seale, Alabama Not too far from Auburn University or Columbus, Georgia is the small town of Seale, Alabama.  Although a little out of the way, a trip to Seale is one in which is worth the drive. The main attraction in Seale is Butch Anthony’s Museam of Wonder and newly constructed Museum of Mystery drive through museum. The Museum of Mystery Upon entering Seale, a visitor has the opportunity to visit the first drive-through antique and art museum. The Museum of Mystery, built from used sea shipping containers, is a welcome preview to the world of Butch Anthony’s art.  The Museum of Mystery contains many of the prized artifacts and artwork that were originally displayed in The Museum of Wonder.  Interesting items include a three headed chick, odd ducks, and many antiques.  Still under construction, the Museum of Mystery offers a preview of what is left to be seen at the Museum of Wonder. The Museum of Wonder The true treasure in Seale is The Museum of Wonder.  Located at 41 Poorhouse Road, The Museum of Wonder provides the visitor a world of unique and odd finds that are the creation of Butch Anthony.  Originally, Butch’s taxidermy and artifact shop, the museum now boasts as the home of the world’s largest gallstone and a meat eating squirrel. When you first drive to the address, it looks like just a dirt road, however, a drive down the lane opens up to the museum’s location.   Driving down the lane, you will see the site of the Doo-Nanny Art and Music Festival on the right.  Keep driving and you will come to the museum.   Described as “Wonderfully Weird”, “Laughingly Lustful” and “Hiddenly Highbrow” by the signage on the front of the Museum, the advertising does not lie.  This place is all these things and more. Filled with oddities from around the world (but mostly from Alabama), visitors can marvel at the “Very Rare Spontaneous Combustion Bird”, “The Amazing Ghandi – Fortune Teller”, the “Uchee Mermaid” and “Bigfoot Droppings”. Please specify a Flickr ID for this slideshowPlan to spend some time looking around and taking in all of the wonder of this wild museum. To Hear More If you are unfamiliar with podcasts, click on the “Listen Now” button located at the top of the post.  Here you can listen to me describe the trip in more detail.  If using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod, click on the icon located in the upper portion of the sidebar to subscribe to the podcast via iTunes. **  All Photographs by Rob Higdon unless noted.  **   Share this:

Airport Security – Gear to Get You Through!   Airport security lines are  the part of traveling that I hate the most.  Unfortunately, we have to endure this if we want to travel by air.  In order to get some to some of the destinations that offer the best photographic opportunities, we must fly. Luckily, there are products that are available that can make getting through airport security much easier.  As with anything concerning the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), always check their website for the latest rules and regulations.  They change often. Scottevest Clothing As mentioned in previous posts, I am a big fan of Scottevest clothing, especially their jackets, vests, and hats.  What makes Scottevest products so so valuable is that they come with pockets; lot’s of pockets.  Additionally, Scottevest incorporates the “Personal Area Network” which allows earbuds to be incorporated into the jacket. All of these pockets help with going through airport security lines by allowing you to stash as much stuff as you can in the pockets.   Then, you simply place the jacket on the x-ray belt.  This is a huge timesaver when preparing to walk through airport security lines. The pockets in the Scottevest have specific purposes and also are technology friendly.  For example, the phone pockets have see-through plastic covers that are touch sensitive, allowing smart phone users to operate their devices while they are in the pocket.  Additionally, many of the pockets are sized to fit other items such as sunglasses, ID cards and boarding passes. In addition to jackets and vests; Scottevest offers a full line of shirts, pants, hoodies, shorts, and dresses, all of which are designed for travelers. GoToob by Humangear One of the reasons that many people opt to check luggage, as opposed to carry-on only, is the size restriction on liquids.  The TSA restricts the volume of any liquid to not exceed 3.4 oz.  While it is possible to buy shampoos and conditioners in travel sizes, it is also possible to pack your own with the GoToob by Humangear. GoToob is a soft, squeezable, silicone container that can be filled with your favorite shampoo or conditioner.  The GoToob comes in three sizes,  1.25 Fl Oz, 2.0 Fl Oz, and  3.0 Fl Oz.  The GoToob has a unique no-drip valve that helps to keep the GoToob clean.  Additionally, a special two-part ring allows you to display what is contained in the tube, such as “soap” and “lotion”, or a blank spot allows you to write in your own with a marker.  Although you can’t store every kind of liquid in a GoToob, it does fine for shampoo, conditioners, and lotions.  They are easy to clean and easy to fill. Disposable Paper Slippers One of the worst things about airport security lines is the march down that foul area without your shoes on.  It is disgusting and unsanitary to take your shoes off and walk down that same path that thousands have before you.  It drives me crazy that people wear flip-flops and sandals when flying.  Not because I am some kind of footwear snob, but because in an emergency situation, you need to have your shoes on and they certainly will be lost going down the slide.  Additionally, I have seen hundreds of people rub their bare feet all over the back of airline seats. But for the walk down the security path, I will also have my shoes off and I do not like walking down the nasty carpet.  Even in places with a hard floor, hundreds of people will walk on the floor before it is cleaned.  This is a breeding ground for foot borne disease. The solution to this problem is disposable slippers. Although socks will keep your feet from touching the ground, all they do is soak up the germs and insert them into your shoes.  By using disposable slippers, you can ditch the problem in the trash on the other side of the scanner. Some airports offer complimentary disposable slippers, but most do not.  I have decided to not take any chances that the airport will not have them and always bring them with me.  There are many varieties of disposable slippers, but I prefer the paper variety because they are flat and easy to pack. Amazon sells these slippers in packs of 10 pairs and in packs of 25 pairs at the following: 10 Pairs –  Disposable Paper Slippers  25 Pairs – Disposable Paper Slippers Tom Bihn Travel Tray One of the biggest hold-ups when going through the security line is taking things like your watch, jewelry, keys, change, and other items and stashing them in your carry on luggage.  After exiting security, you now have to dig all this stuff back out. The alternative is pitching all of this stuff into the plastic bin or into the little plastic bowl that are provided by the TSA.   This is an open invitation to lose your things or be taken by a pick-pocket. The solution is the Travel Tray by Tom Bihn.   The Travel Tray by Tom Bihn is a collapsable container that allows you to place all of your small items into the tray and then seal up the container by pulling a drawstring.  The container can then be placed in your carry-on luggage or in the plastic TSA bin.  Another good use for the Travel Tray is to keep all of your small items together in the hotel room or campsite. TSA Friendly Laptop Bags Over the course of the last few years, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has relaxed the restrictions surrounding the removal of laptops from bags being screened.  It is a pain to have to remove the laptop from the bag, and if it can be avoided, it should be.   In order to take advantage of this the bag that you use to carry your laptop must meet a few specific requirements. The bag must have a laptop only compartment. The laptop only section must be able to be laid flat onto the belt when passing through the x-ray. The bag must not have any claps, zippers, buckles, snaps or other metal components on top of or underneath the laptop only section. The laptop only section of the bag cannot have any pockets or other compartments. Only the laptop can be packed in the laptop only compartment. When searching for a TSA friendly laptop bag, look for the “Checkthrough” Logo, which indicates to the TSA agents that the bag is TSA Friendly.  One great choice is the Scooba Design Laptop Roller available at Ebags.com.   Share this:

Ollantaytambo – Gateway to Machu Picchu If planning a trip to Machu Picchu, a layover in Ollantaytambo should definitely not be ignored.  Ollantaytambo (pronounced Oh-yan-tie-tom-bo) is a perfect example of an ancient Incan town and provides the visitor with some of the best examples of Incan ruins and engineering in Peru. Rather than just passing through Ollantaytabo, stop and explore! Next Stop – Ollantaytambo When making the trip to Machu Picchu via train or bus from Cusco, you will stop in Ollantaytambo.  Perurail built a rail stop in Ollantaytambo and things have never been the same for this little town since.  Thousands of tourists a year make a stop in Ollantaytambo, but very few actually stay overnight in the town or explore anything other than the train station or the towns impressive Incan ruins. Not only are the ruins in Ollantaytambo impressive, but the landscape is beautiful and the town is absolutely charming. If not staying overnight or visiting the ruins, a stroll through town will provide plenty of interesting subjects for your photography. A mix of both classic Andean culture and some modern convenience, Ollantaytambo is a perfect place to relax for lunch or to catch a little rest.  The town has a variety of restaurants and internet access is fairly easy to come by. Ollantaytambo is not a big town, so it can easily be covered by walking in an afternoon.  While visiting the town, the evidence of Incan engineering and design is everywhere. Drainage and other complex engineering problems were solved by the Incas and still work to this day!  Everywhere that you go in Ollantaytambo, the collision between Inca culture and Spanish influence is seen. If you decide to stay the night in Ollantaytambo, I highly recommend the Hostal Iskay.  This place is one of the coolest hotels that I have ever stayed at.  Although there are a few other places to stay in Ollantaytambo, but we found this place to be the coolest.  Below is a picture taken in our room.  Through the window are the Inca ruins. The views from around the grounds of Hostel Iskay are gorgeous.  I envy Lluke, the owner.  He has a beautiful place. Inca Ruins One of the things that tends to draw people off of the path to Machu Picchu are the ruins at Ollantaytambo. The ruins in Ollantaytambo are some of the most interesting of the Inca empire.  Built by emperor Pachacuti, they were later used by Manco Inca Yapanqui during the conquest by the Spanish as a fortress. The ruins are built up on a steep terraced hill overlooking the town, with a huge alter at the top of the structure.  The alter is constructed using six monolithic stones that are enormous.  It is hard to imagine how these stones were brought to this place and erected upright in such a tight and precise manner. Many think that this site had to have the help of extra-terrestrial workers during its construction.  I can’t attest to that, but it is an interesting theory that was broadcast on TV’s “Ancient Aliens“.  Below is their story on Ollantaytambo which gives great perspective on the ruins. On a mountain opposite the main ruin site, on the other side of the the town of Ollantaytambo, is an Inca food storage facility and the face of Wiracochan, the messanger of Viracocha.  Viracocha was the creator god in pre-Inca mythology. Once you see the face, it is hard not to see it looking down on you everywhere you go in town. The Inca food storage facility on the side of the mountain is cooled by winds that pass over a glacier located a few miles away.  This served to help preserve their food.  The more time that you spend in Ollantaytambo, the more it is obvious that the Inca were master engineers.  However, food preparation and safety may not be the highest priority these days. Festivals in Ollantaytambo If you are fortunate enough to be in Ollantaytambo during one of the many holidays and festivals that are celebrated there, it is something to see.  When we were there, we happened to catch the festival of “Bajada de los Reyes” (January 2011).  Bajada de los Reyes is a celebration of the arrival of the wise men at the birthplace of Jesus.  In Ollantaytambo, celebrants arrive at the churches in town and retrieve the baby Jesus and take it to town, accompanied by marching bands and celebrants dressed in costumes. Please specify a Flickr ID for this slideshow During the Bajada de Reyes, we had the opportunity to go to a bullfight.  No bulls were injured during this bullfight. Photography in Ollantaytambo While in Ollantaytambo, it was easy to get great photographs.  However, like in Cusco or any other town in Peru, be courteous when photographing people. One problem that I had when photographing Ollantaytambo and other areas in the Sacred Valley was the sky.  The sky in this area of Peru in January is VERY bright.  If there is a cloud cover, it is almost dazzling white.  This caused me much difficulty because the skies were clipped when there was cloud cover.  Also, the sky without cloud cover is a deep blue.  I have never seen anything like it.  I don’t know if this is due to the high altitude or if it is due to the proximity to the equator, but whatever the cause, it affected my photos considerably. Try shooting bracketed shots or be very precise with your exposure. Additionally, since it is the rainy season and summer, everything is very green and colorful, giving the impression of over saturation. To Hear More If you are unfamiliar with podcasts, click on the “Listen Now” button located at the top of the post.  Here you can listen to me describe the trip in more detail.  If using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod, click on the icon located in the upper portion of the sidebar to subscribe to the podcast via iTunes. **  All Photographs by Rob Higdon unless noted.  ** Share this:

Visting Cusco Peru   One of the most exciting trips is to the Sacred Valley of Southeastern Peru and it all starts in Cusco Peru.  In this area of South America, Incan ruins meet majestic mountains and breathtaking valleys.  This area also offers the photographer with a rich choice of landscapes, ruins, and human interests. Arriving in Cusco Peru Most people arrive in Cusco by way of aircraft.  The airport in Cusco, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport and is located on the edge of Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco Peru, be sure to take it easy and not overexert yourself.  The altitude in Cusco Peru is around 11,200 ft (3,400 m) and it is very easy to get altitude sickness or Soroche.  If you feel winded, dizzy or sick; sit down and take a rest.  Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy until you are acclimated to the altitude. When you arrive at your hotel, more than likely you will be offered Mate de Coca, or Coca Tea.  Tea made from the leaves of the Coca plant will help to alleviate the symptoms of soroche.  Other prescription drugs, such as Acetazolamide (Diamox) are useful for dealing with soroche. Plaza De Armas Upon arrival in Cusco, most people will want to make a bee-line to the Plaza de Armas; Cusco’s main square. A taxi ride from the airport to the Plaza de Armas should run about 10 soles.  Be sure that you are not being taken advantage of by paying more than around 10 – 15 soles.  Always look for a license sticker on the cab itself and if in doubt, ask someone inside the airport for help in finding a cab.  Also, be sure to always stow your luggage in the trunk of the cab and not with you in the back seat. The Plaza de Armas is a large square that is surrounded by two large cathedrals and many restaurants and shops.  It is the historic area of Cusco as well as the architectural capitol of the Americas. A visitor to the Plaza de Armas ca easily find a great meal at one of the many excellent Peruvian restaurants (as well as American “favorites” such as McDonald’s, KFC, and Starbucks, which we avoided).  If looking for Peruvian fast food, check out Bembos. The Peruvian restaurants tended to be on the second floors of buildings with balconies overlooking the plaza. For an authentic Peruvian meal, try the Lomo Saltado.  I tended to find that this is offered at most Peruvian restaurants that we went to and I loved it!   Additionally, many money changing establishments (Cambios) and places to book travel in the Sacred Valley are located in the Plaza de Armas.  There are also many stands available to get snacks and water. The Plaza de Armas is the perfect place to establish your base of operations for your stay in Cusco.  Many hotels are located in the vicinity of the Plaza de Armas and make it very convenient to stay in this area.  With many attractions within walking distance in the Plaza de Armas, it is the perfect place to start from.  While in Cusco, we stayed at the Tierra Viva Hotel at the Plaza de Armas.  Below is a view from our balcony. While in Cusco, it is not uncommon to see the rainbow flag being flown.  As opposed to its meaning in other parts of the world, the rainbow flag in Peru represents the city of Cusco and Inca heritage. While in the Plaza de Armas, don’t be surprised when you are approached by youngsters wanting to shine your shoes or “starving artists” selling their paintings.  This young man pictured below was selling some sort of water repellant for the “lluvia” (rain). You will also see many Peruvians dressed in traditional Andean clothing.  For the most part, these will be women and children.  Some of them will be carrying a lamb or will have a llama with them.  Do not photograph these people without first asking permission!  Most will gladly allow a photograph for a tip of a sole or two and will approach you for a photograph in many instances. Cathedrals at the Plaza de Armas In Cusco, there are many Catholic churches from the Spanish colonial era.  Two of the most prominent are the Cathedral de Santo Domingo and the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus. It is definitely worth your time to visit both of these cathedrals.  There is a small donation required to enter the church. English interpreters or guides are also available for a small fee.  They are worth the cost because they point out and explain many of the features of the churches that are otherwise not obvious. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed in any of the Catholic churches in the Plaza de Armas. San Blas and Calle Loreto A short walk from the Plaza de Armas is an area know as San Blas.  This is an old area of Cusco and is known for its narrow and steep  streets. Along these streets are restaurants, deli’s, and art galleries.  This area of town is full of great places to photograph, both people and architecture provide great subjects. Be sure to check out many of the art galleries located in the San Blas area. During the walk from the Plaza de Armas to San Blas, be sure to make a detour to catch the famous 12 sided stone, a perfect example of Incan stonework. Another interesting look at Incan stonework is available on Calle Loreto.  This narrow street, bounded by Incan stone walls is an excellent example of the skill of the Incan stoneworkers.  Additionally, shops are available in courtyards that flank Calle Loreto. Sunday Markets in Cusco In Peru, Sunday is the day to go to the market.  If in Cusco on Sunday, be sure to check out the Mercado Central de San Pedro.  Within this market, all types of traditional food (meats and produce) and other local goods are offered for sale.     Within the market, there is plenty of freshly prepared food available.  I was not brave enough to try anything here, but it seems like a very popular place. In addition to clothing, spices, vegetables and other wares, it is possible to get some very interesting cuts of meat at the Mecado Central de San Pedro. Festivals in Cusco Be sure when planning your trip to check to see if there are any festivals happening while you are in Cusco.   Peruvians celebrate many festivals in public in Cusco and these festivals offer excellent photographic opportunities.  As with any time that you are photographing people, be sure to be respectful. Sacsayhuaman and Christo Blanco One of the places that you must see while in Cusco is Sacsayhuaman (Pronounced “Sack See Woman” or “Sexy Woman”). Sacsayhuaman is a stonework fortress that is located above Cusco.  Although the structure is credited to the Incas, evidence shows that much of the structure was in existence prior to the rise of the Incan Empire. Sacsayhuaman is a perfect example of how precise the Incas were with their stonework.  Many of the stones comprising Sacsayhuaman are so tightly fit together that a piece of paper cannot be inserted between them. Sacsayhuaman is a short taxi ride from the Plaza de Armas and most taxi drivers will park and remain onsite while you tour the site.  There is a ticket (boleto) required to enter Sacsayhuaman as well as Puca Pucara and Taybombochay, both located near Sacsayhuaman. While at Sacsayhuaman, there are other sites that show Incan culture.  Below is an alter used for sacrifice. This ticket can be purchased in the Plaza de Armas or onsite at Sacsayhuaman. While at Sacsayhuaman, be sure to get panorama shots of Cusco as well as shots of Christo Blanco (White Christ).  Christo Blanco is a large white statue of Jesus that is very similar to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janiero, however, it is not as large. A short ten-minute walk from Sacsayhuaman is all that is needed to get to Christo Blanco.  While photographing Christo Blanco, be sure to take in the view of Cusco from this vantage point.  While in  Cusco, you will be able to see Christo Blanco quite clearly from its location on the hill. I have read that it can be dangerous at Sacsayhuaman at night and in the early morning hours.  It is not recommended that you visit during this time of day. Puca Pucarra and Taybombochay A short ride from Sacsayhuaman, is Puca Puccara (Red Fortress in Quechua or “Red Red” according to the cab driver).  Puca Puccara was the entrance fort that the Incans used to control who entered Cusco.  From this spot, a picturesque view of the lower portion of the sacred valley gives the photographer the perfect place to get shots of the Peruvian countryside. A short drive from Puca Pucarra (less than 5 minutes) is Tambomachay. Tambomachay is an Incan site that contains baths, aqueducts, and canals.  Although not certain, it is thought that this place was used as a spa by the Incan elite.    Both Puca Pucarra and Tambomachay are a short ride from Sacsayhuaman and should be able to be seen in an afternoon’s time.   One word of warning which visiting Tambomachay; I got soroche (altitude sickness) while visiting this location.  Keep in mind that Tambomachy is even higher in altitude than Cusco.  If you start to experience the symptoms of altitude sickness, be sure to go to a lower elevation (back down to Cusco). If you get winded or think that you are getting soroche, and don’t want to head back down to Cusco, simply sit down and take a rest. To Hear More If you are unfamiliar with podcasts, click on the “Listen Now” button located at the top of the post.  Here you can listen to me describe the trip in more detail.  If using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod, click on the icon located in the upper portion of the sidebar to subscribe to the podcast via iTunes. **  All Photographs by Rob Higdon unless noted.  ** Share this:

Sunset Photography in Bandon Oregon During a recent trip, I had the opportunity to spend the night in Bandon Oregon.  Named as Budget Travel’s 2010 “Coolest Small Town in America”, it was definitely a great place to stop over and get some great photographs, especially at sunset. Bandon Oregon is located on the Pacific coast in the southwest portion of the state.  Established in the 1870’s, Bandon is known for its cranberries as well as its cheese.  Located along the mouth of the Coquille River, lighthouses and sea stacks offer great photographic opportunities. Bandon Waterfront and Coquille River Bandon is located at the mouth of the Coquille River and has a very nice waterfront area along the river.  This waterfront area provides a great place to relax, shop, and get a bite to eat.  Additionally, this waterfront area provides a great view of the Coquille River Lighthouse.  The lighthouse is visible from Bandon’s side of the river, or from Bullards Beach State Park. The Bandon waterfront also has a variety of old docks and maritime related subjects that provide excellent subjects.   Bandon Beach Sunset The main attraction in Bandon Oregon is the sunset on Bandon Beach.  I have seen a lot of sunsets, but very few compared to the sunset on Bandon Beach. Bandon Beach is a short walk from the Bandon waterfront and is magical at sunset.  Be sure to check your times to ensure that you are in place at the beach prior to Golden Hour.  The photographs are easy to come by and on a clear day, will make it worth the trip to Bandon Oregon.  Below, my wife, Andrea on Bandon Beach. The sea stacks, clumps of erosion resistant rocks left behind from outcroppings or cliffs, are prevalent on Bandon Beach.  The mist from the waves hitting the sea stack creates a wonderful glow in the setting sun. In addition to the sea stacks, Bandon Beach provides great subject matter looking inland.   To Hear More If you are unfamiliar with podcasts, click on the “Listen Now” button located at the top of the post.  Here you can listen to me describe the trip in more detail.  If using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod, click on the icon located in the upper portion of the sidebar to subscribe to the podcast via iTunes. **  All Photographs by Rob Higdon unless noted.  ** Share this:

This episode explores afternoon photography at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Kanab, Utah. Topics include time of day to photograph, nature of the sand, and unpaved road travel in the desert.

In this episode, I discuss night photography on the Vegas strip as well as touch on some other interesting places in the area.

In this episode, I discuss a trip to Eastern Washington State's Palouse region. Included are Steptoe Butte State Park and Palouse Falls State Park. For additional information, photographs, and show notes, visit http://www.phototripper.net.

In this episode, preparations for a trip to Peru are discussed. Topics include preparing for weather, time off from work, and medications - vaccinations needed for a trip to Peru. Additionally, tips on changing currency are included.

In this episode, I discuss the movie "The Way" and the question that I took from watching the film. That question is- "Why Travel?" and how does photography fit into that decision.

A visit to Crater Lake National Park and the surrounding areas are discussed in this episode. Included are a discussion of shooting multi-shot panorama shots as well as side trips to Diamond Lake and Mount Thielson, Oregon.

In this episode, I discuss how to finalize planning for your photo trip. We discuss tactical scheduling using TripIt, carry-on vs. checked baggage, how to use the Scottevest to pack more stuff onto a flight, and how to budget your trip. Visit the web si

In this episode, we discuss various ways to add GPS location data to your photos. Tips, techniques and technology are discussed, including mobile apps such as "Geologger" and "Geotag Photos Pro".

In this episode, I discuss 10 essential items that you should carry in your camera bag. The great thing is that these items are very cheap, all for under $10.00 each

In this episode, we continue on a ride through the great state of Oregon, stopping along the way at Smith Rock State Park, through to the John Day Fossil Beds - Clarno Unit. We also hit Antelope, Oregon and the ghost town of Richmond, Oregon. Ending wit

In this episode, I will describe a trip from Portand to Bend, Oregon. Along the way, I stop at Silver Falls State Park to photograph North and South Silver Falls. As the drive continues, I stop at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area and then onto the Dee

In this episode, take a ride down the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway to photograph waterfalls and scenic outlooks. From there, take a trip to Mount Hood though the Hood River Valley. Included are Vista House, The Portland Women's Forum Viewpoint,

In this episode, I continue a discussion with Jon Arnold, creator of CameraSim. Jon describes the year-long trip that he and his family have been making across the Western United States in an RV. Check out Jon's blog about the trip at http://www.recalcr

In this episode, we discuss the basics of exposure, ISO, Shutter Speed, and Aperture as well as a cool learning tool called CameraSim. CameraSim is a computer based camera simulator that helps to demonstrate basic DSLR functionality and how to manipulate

Air Shows offer a great opportunity to photograph aircraft that you otherwise may not get to see. In this episode, we discuss what to bring to an air show as well as how to photograph aircraft in flight.

An interview with Dustin and Melody Hartzler. Dustin is the host of the "Your Website Engineer" podcast and blog. He and his wife Melody recently made a trip to Europe and discuss planning, packing, and dining in Europe. Topics also include how to rent

How to process bracketed shots to make HDR images using Photomatix, HDREfex Pro and Photoshop. Noise reduction is also discussed. Visit http://www.phototripper.net/ for more information.

How to shoot bracketed exposures for HDR Photography. Camera settings and techniques are discussed

In this episode, I discuss a drive from Raleigh through Goldsboro, Kinston, and on to Beaufort, North Carolina. Along the way, we enjoyed Eastern Carolina barbecue and got some great black and white photos. Ending on the coast, we discovered old cemeter

A trip through Central Kentucky's Bluegrass Region is discussed, including the Lexington area, The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Maker's Mark, Holy Cross, Bardstown, and Bernheim Forest.

In this episode I discuss how to use technology to aid in planning photography trips. Google Earth, Google Maps, Paper Maps, The Golden Hour App, LightTrac, and The Photographer's Ephemeris are discussed.

How to determine which region to photograph, how to choose locations within that region, and how to begin to make your trip's route map are discussed in this week's episode

In this episode, photographing Louisville, Kentucky is discussed. Topics included are Churchill Downs, Thunder Over Louisville, Cave Hill Cemetery, The Highlands, Waverly Hills Sanatorium and the Knob Creek Machine Gun Shoot.

This episode covers the Kentucky Derby. Topics discussed include how to get there, what to bring with you, what to expect once there, and some photographic advice.

Introduction to the Phototripper podcast and site. Host introduction and upcoming episodes are discussed.