1. Better to wag your tail than your tongue
2. If you had a good time, it was worth being sent to the doghouse
3. If it tasted good it was worth the bellyache
4. Whether on a fancy bed, on an old couch, or under a tree, a nap is a nap is a nap.
5. There are three stages in life: being a pup, acting like a pup, and acting like a pup, only slower.
Spending my childhood and early adult life in a smaller city environment of the farming country in Southeastern Pennsylvania was a wonderful experience. It was filled with the love of family, close friends, fresh food, clean air, good water, daily outdoor activities, hard work and an appreciation for the land and the beauty of nature. My father, grandmother, and many aunts and uncles were all traditional farmers; continually observing the birds, the animals, weather and nature for the subtle changes that are very important for their crops and daily lives. I learned from their observations, patience, persistence, reverence and the appreciation of our natural environment. They are the key and fundamental skills to composing a good photograph and a fulfilling life.
As a university science major there were few opportunities to pursue art courses but I did manage to “sneak” into a photography seminar; a course only available to upper level art majors. With a borrowed Canon 35mm SLR, single fixed 50mm lens, a refurbished hand held light meter and "pirated" darkroom time I became instantly enamored with the art form; a chance encounter that turned into a lifetime passion.
For over 50 years the camera has been a constant in my life. Throughout my career it has been an integral part of my professional life and a constant companion on travels around the US and the World. The camera reminds me to stop, look, pay attention, enjoy and appreciate the wonder, mystery, beauty of my surroundings; without even preserving an image. The camera is my talisman of appreciation for my good fortunes of family, friends, travel, health, and the experiences and wonders of nature that fill my life.
I've performed as a professional photographing for the US Military, publishing professional articles, filming weddings/special events, at my professional medical practice and as an assistant for the training of other physicians, students and medical residents. Landscape, travel and still life photography have always been my primary interests.
Anyone snapping a picture is a photographer but those who hope to tell a story with their image, seeking out and awaiting the right light, carefully composing the frame, and then pausing to appreciate why this place/time/persons are important in their lives are the true artists.. Ansel Adams said: “With one eye I look into the eyepiece, with the other I look into my soul”.
Please enjoy this gallery and hope you’re inspired to spend more time observing this fabulous World and our fellow life travelers.
Fondest regards;
JIM