Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Saturday, April 15, 2017
Fran West Photography on Fine Art America
Fran West Photography is now available on Fine Art America.
Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Natural Bridges National Monument Bridges the Gap Again
Although Natural Bridges National Monument isn't a huge park, it's still worth visiting. You may like to read the previous post about it before continuing on with this post - click here! This is Utah's first National Monument, declared in 1908, so it's been open for business for over a hundred years. It's famous for its bridges, naturally, but there's more to the park than just those. The rest of the terrain and the flora are outstanding.
The wildflowers and shrubs (above) are colourful as are the rock formations in the distance (below).
Wherever you drive or walk, there's something to enjoy and photograph. However, with all of these parks, to really appreciate what nature has to offer, you must spend longer than a few hours or even a day there.
In this desert country, as well as your trusty camera, camcorder or mobile phone etc., remember to take snacks and plenty of water. Sightseeing is very hungry and thirsty work! Many people have emailed me about my photos and where they're available for purchase. I've started loading a lot of the photos already onto CafePress where you can buy them on mugs, T-shirts, magnets, clothing etc., so here's the link to that - Fran West photos on CafePress. If you want to be more specific about Utah photos here's the link to those.
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| Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah, USA - Fran West |
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| Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah, USA - Fran West |
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| Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah, USA - Fran West |
Friday, March 22, 2013
Bryce is Beautiful - Bryce Canyon National Park That Is
Bryce Canyon National Park is just beautiful. This national park is one of the highlights of southern Utah and one of the USA's most memorable parks.
Since I was driving in a clockwise direction to visit the state's national parks, I travelled about 90 miles from Zion National Park in the southwest to Bryce Canyon.
Some of the route was along National Scenic Byway 12. I highly recommend planning your trip along these byways when possible because the scenery is well worth it.
These Scenic Byways are well marked as you can see from the sign.
There's a whole list of these in a little booklet which was sent to me in 2009 from the American Park Network - "Utah's National Parks: your complete guide to the parks".
When I arrived at Bryce Canyon it was pouring with rain, not a good omen for taking photos.
However, the weather cleared up at times with a few sunny patches here and there, revealing the scenery in the two photos below.
Quite an adventure walking the muddy trails after rain as it was slippery in sections and sometimes each step was like pulling my feet out of glue as I squelched along the track. I just love having my boots caked in mud!
Nevertheless, there's nothing like walking in amongst the multihued rock formations.
As you drive further into the park, you'll come across several lookouts like the one below.
To really explore Bryce Canyon you need more than the two and a half days which I had. The colours of the rocks change depending on the time of day, particularly sunrise and sunset, and you need to experience the park in several ways by driving, walking, biking or riding a mule into one of the canyons.
Here's a link to more information about Bryce Canyon National Park.
There are two photos of Bryce Canyon in my kindle book on Amazon. Just click on the photo for more information.
Since I was driving in a clockwise direction to visit the state's national parks, I travelled about 90 miles from Zion National Park in the southwest to Bryce Canyon.
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| Scenic Byway sign, Utah, USA - Fran West |
These Scenic Byways are well marked as you can see from the sign.
There's a whole list of these in a little booklet which was sent to me in 2009 from the American Park Network - "Utah's National Parks: your complete guide to the parks".
When I arrived at Bryce Canyon it was pouring with rain, not a good omen for taking photos.
However, the weather cleared up at times with a few sunny patches here and there, revealing the scenery in the two photos below.
Quite an adventure walking the muddy trails after rain as it was slippery in sections and sometimes each step was like pulling my feet out of glue as I squelched along the track. I just love having my boots caked in mud!
Nevertheless, there's nothing like walking in amongst the multihued rock formations.
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| Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA - Fran West |
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| Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA - Fran West |
Here's a link to more information about Bryce Canyon National Park.
There are two photos of Bryce Canyon in my kindle book on Amazon. Just click on the photo for more information.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Monument Valley Really Is Monumental
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park really is monumental both from the cultural and geographic perspective. It's situated on US Highway 163 on the Utah/Arizona border just 25 miles south of Mexican Hat, Utah.
This is one of the iconic places, with its recognisable and stunning landscape, that I just had to visit in America's Southwest.
I first came across Monument Valley when I watched western movies, directed by John Ford, with John Wayne. Below is John Ford's Point.
In 2007, there was also a Red Bull Air Race with aerobatic planes both negotiating the pylons and avoiding the rocky outcrops. A breathtaking event to watch.
So as a pilot and a western movie buff I just had to make the effort to visit and stay in the Monument Valley area.
I'd travelled down from Moab, Utah, to reach Goulding's Lodge on a very hot May day. The airconditioning was a welcome relief while I was waiting to board the tour vehicle. A hot and dusty afternoon tour followed but it was definitely worth going on because it included native American culture as well as a trip into the less well known areas of the valley.
Goulding's did have a camp ground and there is also a big and expensive lodge closer to the Mittens rock formations. However, at peak tourism time, it's a must to prebook your accommodation no matter what style of touring you prefer. What a blessing the internet is for reserving accommodation!
David, the Navajo guide on the tour vehicle, was a real gem with his extensive knowledge and sense of humour. He even called little old me "sassy" (maybe he liked Aussies who wear Akubra hats or tourists who believe in audience participation).
However, he was really tuned in to the fact that we were all wanting to take heaps of photos and he stopped the vehicle frequently for this purpose. With digital cameras and photo opportunities abounding, anybody should be able to take fantastic photos in Monument Valley.
The Monument Valley airstrip was visible from the lodge and there was a plane parked there when we visited the Navajo Indian woman nearby. However, the flights to the valley come from neighbouring cities and there don't appear to be joy flights available at the airstrip. A real pity because this is a beauty spot which also needs to be seen from above.
Monument Valley really is monumental if you appreciate magnificent scenery and traditional Navajo culture.
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| Monument Valley, approaching from the north |
I first came across Monument Valley when I watched western movies, directed by John Ford, with John Wayne. Below is John Ford's Point.
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| John Ford Point, Monument Valley |
In 2007, there was also a Red Bull Air Race with aerobatic planes both negotiating the pylons and avoiding the rocky outcrops. A breathtaking event to watch.
So as a pilot and a western movie buff I just had to make the effort to visit and stay in the Monument Valley area.
I'd travelled down from Moab, Utah, to reach Goulding's Lodge on a very hot May day. The airconditioning was a welcome relief while I was waiting to board the tour vehicle. A hot and dusty afternoon tour followed but it was definitely worth going on because it included native American culture as well as a trip into the less well known areas of the valley.
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| Navajo woman with her craft, Monument Valley |
David, the Navajo guide on the tour vehicle, was a real gem with his extensive knowledge and sense of humour. He even called little old me "sassy" (maybe he liked Aussies who wear Akubra hats or tourists who believe in audience participation).
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| Goulding's Tours, Monument Valley |
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| David, tour guide, on the left, with his cousin in Monument Valley |
Keen to make sure that we knew that this was Indian territory, David and his cousin entertained us with some native American music (above). He also treated us to some of the best vantage points for photographing the rock formations - very artistic and his enthusiasm and love of his country made the tour a truly unique experience.
If my itinerary had allowed it, I would have liked to have gone on a morning tour to capture the scenery in a different light. The afternoon tour was hot with strong sunlight and as time progressed there was the afternoon haze and long shadows across the rocks. Sunrise in the morning can be beautiful but sunset in the evening can also be superb.
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| One of the Mittens, Monument Valley |
The Monument Valley airstrip was visible from the lodge and there was a plane parked there when we visited the Navajo Indian woman nearby. However, the flights to the valley come from neighbouring cities and there don't appear to be joy flights available at the airstrip. A real pity because this is a beauty spot which also needs to be seen from above.
Monument Valley really is monumental if you appreciate magnificent scenery and traditional Navajo culture.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
"The 12 Days of Christmas" using Photos and Making a Video
Here's part 2 of making a fun presentation which I created from my photos used in my own products.
First, I made a PowerPoint presentation, as detailed in the previous post.
Next, I clicked on the slide sorter icon towards the bottom right of the page.
I then clicked on Slide 1, held down the Shift Key and clicked on Slide 14 so that all the slides were highlighted.
Then it was click on File and Save As.
In the Save As box I kept the same File Name and file location in My Documents but instead of the Save as Type: PowerPoint Presentation, I clicked on the arrow and scrolled down till I found JPEG File Interchange Format and clicked the Save button.
A new box appeared on the screen and I clicked on the Every Slide button.
After that I clicked on the OK button so that each of the JPEGs could be saved in a separate folder.
I closed the PowerPoint file, went to My Documents and found the folder (not the PPt file) for "The 12 Days of Christmas" and opened it. There were all the slides from the presentation as JPEGs.
After that, I opened up my movie making program (you should have a free Windows Movie Maker program on your PC if you don't have access to a purchased program).
I inserted all the JPEGs, added the timings and did the basic fade in and fade out transition.
After that, I saved it as a Windows Media Audio/Video file (WMAV file) in the smaller format to be posted on the internet.
I uploaded to YouTube and was able to select a free soundtrack which approximately matched the length of the movie.
From below the uploaded file I clicked on Share, then on Embed and copied the Embed Code and inserted that in this blog post for you to enjoy. (You can also select the size of the video to suit the width of the blog post)
So now you can go off and use your photos to produce your very own Christmas spectacular!
You can check out my full length videos by clicking on the links to the left of this post (Alzheimer's Products and Digital's Great!).
If you found this post entertaining and/or educational please feel free to share it with others.
First, I made a PowerPoint presentation, as detailed in the previous post.
Next, I clicked on the slide sorter icon towards the bottom right of the page.
I then clicked on Slide 1, held down the Shift Key and clicked on Slide 14 so that all the slides were highlighted.
Then it was click on File and Save As.
In the Save As box I kept the same File Name and file location in My Documents but instead of the Save as Type: PowerPoint Presentation, I clicked on the arrow and scrolled down till I found JPEG File Interchange Format and clicked the Save button.
A new box appeared on the screen and I clicked on the Every Slide button.
After that I clicked on the OK button so that each of the JPEGs could be saved in a separate folder.
I closed the PowerPoint file, went to My Documents and found the folder (not the PPt file) for "The 12 Days of Christmas" and opened it. There were all the slides from the presentation as JPEGs.
After that, I opened up my movie making program (you should have a free Windows Movie Maker program on your PC if you don't have access to a purchased program).
I inserted all the JPEGs, added the timings and did the basic fade in and fade out transition.
After that, I saved it as a Windows Media Audio/Video file (WMAV file) in the smaller format to be posted on the internet.
I uploaded to YouTube and was able to select a free soundtrack which approximately matched the length of the movie.
From below the uploaded file I clicked on Share, then on Embed and copied the Embed Code and inserted that in this blog post for you to enjoy. (You can also select the size of the video to suit the width of the blog post)
So now you can go off and use your photos to produce your very own Christmas spectacular!
You can check out my full length videos by clicking on the links to the left of this post (Alzheimer's Products and Digital's Great!).
If you found this post entertaining and/or educational please feel free to share it with others.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
"The 12 Days of Christmas" using Photos and Slideshare
It's been quite a while now since I've written a post not connected to my bed & breakfast or work for aged care and early childhood (this entails creating DVDs, Photo Downloads, Kindle Books and Interactive Jigsaw Puzzles on CD).
The past year has been very traumatic and emotional watching my 95 year old mother decline in health and eventually pass away on Remembrance Day in November.
I not only wrote and delivered the eulogy but also created the audio visual presentation for the funeral service. Doing this really brought home how important photos are for our memories, not only of places but also of people, especially our loved ones. Here's the link.
Although I haven't been posting on the blog for several months, the visitors to this site have actually increased. The internet gurus say that to increase traffic to a website or blog, bloggers must keep posting at least once a week. I think that theory's just gone out the window!
However, when I look at how people arrive at this blog, it's usually via the images. So photos once again play a huge part in the lives of those of us who respond to the visual.
I'll continue to add photos for your enjoyment and give you a few hints as well.
Here's a fun Slideshare presentation which I created from my photos used in my products.
First, I made a PowerPoint presentation, then created a PDF.
Next, I uploaded it to www.slideshare.net (a free service for uploading all sorts of documents and presentations).
After that, I got the embed code and I put it in my blog for you to enjoy.
Why don't you do the same with a few photos in a presentation for Christmas (or whatever special occasion you like)?
The past year has been very traumatic and emotional watching my 95 year old mother decline in health and eventually pass away on Remembrance Day in November.
I not only wrote and delivered the eulogy but also created the audio visual presentation for the funeral service. Doing this really brought home how important photos are for our memories, not only of places but also of people, especially our loved ones. Here's the link.
Although I haven't been posting on the blog for several months, the visitors to this site have actually increased. The internet gurus say that to increase traffic to a website or blog, bloggers must keep posting at least once a week. I think that theory's just gone out the window!
However, when I look at how people arrive at this blog, it's usually via the images. So photos once again play a huge part in the lives of those of us who respond to the visual.
I'll continue to add photos for your enjoyment and give you a few hints as well.
Here's a fun Slideshare presentation which I created from my photos used in my products.
First, I made a PowerPoint presentation, then created a PDF.
Next, I uploaded it to www.slideshare.net (a free service for uploading all sorts of documents and presentations).
After that, I got the embed code and I put it in my blog for you to enjoy.
Why don't you do the same with a few photos in a presentation for Christmas (or whatever special occasion you like)?
I did turn this into a moving slideshow presentation in PowerPoint and also created a Flash file but Slideshare just kept the basic PDF file. To create video uploads in Slideshare you have to upgrade your membership and pay.
The next post will be about how I created the movie version from the PowerPoint presentation.
If you found this post entertaining and/or educational please feel free to share it with others.
The next post will be about how I created the movie version from the PowerPoint presentation.
If you found this post entertaining and/or educational please feel free to share it with others.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is just gorgeous
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is just gorgeous.
It's shared by both Utah and Arizona and it's a very special place whether enjoyed from the land, the water or the air (I thoroughly recommend that way as detailed in a previous post).
It's shared by both Utah and Arizona and it's a very special place whether enjoyed from the land, the water or the air (I thoroughly recommend that way as detailed in a previous post).
The signs around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are almost as impressive as the natural beauty which they highlight.
I left my campground and went for a drive around part of the lake until I came to this spot at the Coves. The painted part of the sign is mirrored in the stone which supports it.
Very creatively designed to make a statement about the place.
Photographing signs on a trip actually defines where the photos were taken, breaks up the series of photos taken e.g. all landscapes, and some are just worth photographing anyway.
Click on the photo to enlarge it and enjoy both the sign and the scenery behind it.
I can definitely feel the urge to create some interactive jigsaw puzzles about Glen Canyon and Lake Powell. Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, check out my "Canyon Country" post.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Trains Are Terrific Especially As Jigsaw Puzzles
Trains and locomotives, whether steam or diesel seem to capture that spirit of adventure and take us back to a different time. The photos made into jigsaw puzzles of this exciting mode of travel are sure to bring back memories for people who love their train journeys.
In this new series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
These photos are of trains old and new, working and at rest. Sure to bring back memories for people who love trains and travel, especially throughout the USA in Alaska, Arizona and Colorado. There's the Alaska Railroad in Talkeetna, Alaska, the Grand Canyon Railway at the South Rim station, Arizona, the Verde Canyon Railroad, Arizona, a Santa Fe Railway caboose, Williams, Arizona, and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a personal computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
If you would like to try a sample of a jigsaw, email me at fran@franwest.com
In this new series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
These photos are of trains old and new, working and at rest. Sure to bring back memories for people who love trains and travel, especially throughout the USA in Alaska, Arizona and Colorado. There's the Alaska Railroad in Talkeetna, Alaska, the Grand Canyon Railway at the South Rim station, Arizona, the Verde Canyon Railroad, Arizona, a Santa Fe Railway caboose, Williams, Arizona, and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado.
Internet access is not required.
If you would like to try a sample of a jigsaw, email me at fran@franwest.com
Friday, April 13, 2012
Canyon Country Colossal As Jigsaw Puzzles
Utah's Canyon Country is coming soon as 25 interactive Jigsaw Puzzles on CD. The spectacular rock formations present photographers with such a wealth of material that it's hard to resist capturing them on film or digital flash card. The response to my photos has been so overwhelming that I've decided to make 5 of the photos into interactive jigsaws: Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park's Kolob Canyons, Red Canyon, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Stay tuned!
Stay tuned!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Rainbow Bridge To Monument Valley: Making The Modern Old West
Rainbow Bridge To Monument Valley: Making The Modern Old West, by Thomas J. Harvey looks to be an interesting read if you can get past the cover. Stunning photo of one of the Mittens in Monument Valley.
I just had to visit Monument Valley after seeing the Red Bull Air Race on TV. No wonder so many movies have been made in this area. Flying over Rainbow Bridge in the early morning was also one of the highlights of my trip to the Southwest. Put this area on your bucket list. A bit of reading beforehand, like this book, wouldn't go astray to add to the appreciation of these significant places.
Rainbow Bridge to Monument Valley: Making the Modern Old West
The Colorado River Plateau is home to two of the best-known landscapes in the world: Rainbow Bridge in southern Utah and Monument Valley on the Utah-Arizona border. Twentieth-century popular culture made these places icons of the American West, and advertising continues to exploit their significance today. In "Rainbow Bridge to Monument Valley," Thomas J. Harvey artfully tells how Navajos and Anglo-Americans created fabrics of meaning out of this stunning desert landscape, space that western novelist Zane Grey called "the storehouse of unlived years," where a rugged, more authentic life beckoned.
Reviews
"Thomas J. Harvey's work on the Utah-Arizona border region . . . will stake out new intellectual terrain for scholars seeking to explore the relationship between geography, cultural nationalism, and Occidentalism in twentieth-century America. . . . Harvey shows quite clearly how layers of meaning continue to be attached to the region and how modern mythmaking is perpetuated."Carter Jones Meyer co-author of "Selling the Indian: Commercializing and Appropriating American Indian Cultures".
I just had to visit Monument Valley after seeing the Red Bull Air Race on TV. No wonder so many movies have been made in this area. Flying over Rainbow Bridge in the early morning was also one of the highlights of my trip to the Southwest. Put this area on your bucket list. A bit of reading beforehand, like this book, wouldn't go astray to add to the appreciation of these significant places.
Rainbow Bridge to Monument Valley: Making the Modern Old West
The Colorado River Plateau is home to two of the best-known landscapes in the world: Rainbow Bridge in southern Utah and Monument Valley on the Utah-Arizona border. Twentieth-century popular culture made these places icons of the American West, and advertising continues to exploit their significance today. In "Rainbow Bridge to Monument Valley," Thomas J. Harvey artfully tells how Navajos and Anglo-Americans created fabrics of meaning out of this stunning desert landscape, space that western novelist Zane Grey called "the storehouse of unlived years," where a rugged, more authentic life beckoned.
Reviews
"Thomas J. Harvey's work on the Utah-Arizona border region . . . will stake out new intellectual terrain for scholars seeking to explore the relationship between geography, cultural nationalism, and Occidentalism in twentieth-century America. . . . Harvey shows quite clearly how layers of meaning continue to be attached to the region and how modern mythmaking is perpetuated."Carter Jones Meyer co-author of "Selling the Indian: Commercializing and Appropriating American Indian Cultures".
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Natural Bridges Naturally Bridge the Gap
Natural Bridges National Monument, in southeastern Utah, is another fine example of nature's architectural design. The entrance to the park is at the end of Highway 275, approximately 35 miles west of Blanding, Utah, on Highway 95. Driving time from Blanding is roughly 45 minutes.
The entrance sign to the park really accentuates the natural bridge theme.
The next place to stop of course is the Visitor Centre to view the interesting displays and pick up a brochure highlighting the park's features. The Visitor Center is up at about 6,500 feet (about 2,000 metres) but it's still set in desert country and on a sunny day it's hot, hot, hot!
A day or two need to be set aside for this park but as usual for me it was just a quick trip by car around the one way circuit. The lookouts are well marked but parking on a busy day can be a problem. You can see the highlights of the park from the lookouts but this is a park that you need to spend time walking around. The bridges definitely need to be viewed from beneath as well as from above. The different perspective can only be obtained by walking on the trails not just glimpsing from the lookout. Remember to wear a big hat (like my trusty Akubra), put on the sunscreen and take plenty of water. This is very thirsty country.
There are three famous bridges, Sipapu, Kachina and Owachomo (pictured) but I just loved the desert country (maybe because I'm Australian). As well as the natural architecture, the vegetation is worth investigating too. Not just the trees but also the flowers. Reminds me a bit of Australia.
Here's more information about Natural Bridges National Monument.
I've found a few books which might be worth looking into.
If you enjoyed this blog post please share it with others.
The entrance sign to the park really accentuates the natural bridge theme.
A day or two need to be set aside for this park but as usual for me it was just a quick trip by car around the one way circuit. The lookouts are well marked but parking on a busy day can be a problem. You can see the highlights of the park from the lookouts but this is a park that you need to spend time walking around. The bridges definitely need to be viewed from beneath as well as from above. The different perspective can only be obtained by walking on the trails not just glimpsing from the lookout. Remember to wear a big hat (like my trusty Akubra), put on the sunscreen and take plenty of water. This is very thirsty country.
Here's more information about Natural Bridges National Monument.
I've found a few books which might be worth looking into.
If you enjoyed this blog post please share it with others.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Fran's Backpack - When Giants Roamed: The Golden Age of Steam DVD
Fran's Backpack brings to you various products on travel, adventure, flying and photography.
They could be books, ebooks, videos, or gear. Check each one out as it's highlighted on the day.
Today's item in the Backpack is When Giants Roamed: The Golden Age of Steam DVD.
I love my train journeys and while in the USA a couple of years ago I travelled on the Grand Canyon and Verde Canyon Railways in Arizona and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad in Colorado. This DVD does look rather interesting with a 4.5 star rating by customers.
Editorial Reviews
In the first half of the 20th century, America's railroads were transformed by the coming of giants. Pushed by the need to haul ever longer and heavier trains, the nation's locomotive works responded with the awe-inspiring articulated engines. Delivering up to 7,500 horsepower, these steel giants could haul trains a mile long and weighing over 15,000 tons. WHEN GIANTS ROAMED journeys back to the golden age of steam for an up-close look at these legendary locos. See the Union Pacific's famed Big Boy in action and ride the rails of the Chesapeake & Ohio and Norfolk & Western, eastern coal-hauling railroads with an unquenchable thirst for power. Meet the men who drove engines like the Allegheny and Yellowstone, and visit the museums and yards where the largest steamers ever built are preserved today. It's a historic excursion sure to set any railfan's heart pounding.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
"Float Planes of Alaska" DVD: a Great Christmas Gift
For people who live in North America, especially mainland USA and Canada, I've produced a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
It's great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages. No commentary or captions, just look, listen and enjoy. It runs for about 26 minutes.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
View Larger Map
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
It's great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages. No commentary or captions, just look, listen and enjoy. It runs for about 26 minutes.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
View Larger Map
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah, has the Seal of Approval
Lake Powell, in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, has got the "Seal of Approval"! However, you do have to use your imagination a bit.
At Wahweap, I managed to take two boat trips on Lake Powell, exploring the canyons, visiting Rainbow Bridge and cruising around this vast and magnificent lake. Perhaps the attraction isn't so much Lake Powell itself but the rock formations around the edge.
This particular rock formation is really only visible from water level whereas many of the others are more obvious from the air when gaining a bird's eye view.
You will have to zoom in on the photo to enlarge the "seal" on the right hand side of the picture just above the water's edge.
Cruising on Lake Powell and manoeuvring through the canyons is one activity you have to put on your list of "must do" tours. The boat captains are very skilled and well versed in the history, culture and geology of their patch. They also have a great imagination, a wicked sense of humour and an eye for the unique beauty of the area.
Looking up at these great hunks of rock really brings home the fact that we're just tiny specks compared to the vastness of nature. Quite a humbling experience.
Here's more information on Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
At Wahweap, I managed to take two boat trips on Lake Powell, exploring the canyons, visiting Rainbow Bridge and cruising around this vast and magnificent lake. Perhaps the attraction isn't so much Lake Powell itself but the rock formations around the edge.
This particular rock formation is really only visible from water level whereas many of the others are more obvious from the air when gaining a bird's eye view.
You will have to zoom in on the photo to enlarge the "seal" on the right hand side of the picture just above the water's edge.
Cruising on Lake Powell and manoeuvring through the canyons is one activity you have to put on your list of "must do" tours. The boat captains are very skilled and well versed in the history, culture and geology of their patch. They also have a great imagination, a wicked sense of humour and an eye for the unique beauty of the area.
Looking up at these great hunks of rock really brings home the fact that we're just tiny specks compared to the vastness of nature. Quite a humbling experience.
Here's more information on Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, Really is Captivating
Capitol Reef National Park, one of the Utah parks in the south, really is captivating. It's a long skinny national park accessible between Torrey and Hanksville. Or if you're doing a clockwise trip around the national parks like I did, it's between Bryce Canyon National Park to the west and Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park to the east.
I love photographing different signs. The national parks, in particular, have a clear welcoming sign that lets you know that you're in for something spectacular. Photographing signs also indicates where the next photographs have been taken.
It's also not a bad idea to photograph the sign when you leave a place (for obvious reasons).
The Visitor Center very fittingly blends in well with its surroundings. It's well worth a visit to pick up maps and information, look at the exhibits, watch a short video, buy souvenirs and use the rest rooms. The location is at the junction of the Scenic Drive and Route 24.
I really only had time to travel along the Scenic Drive and back and then continue east along the main road. However, the park really needs a couple of days to explore.
Looking at the photos, you can see that Capitol Reef National Park is one of those really rocky Utah parks. It's comprised of 378 square miles of towering landforms, canyons, mesas and folded rock layers and it's a photographer's Paradise (most of my photos of Utah are rocks, rocks and more rocks!). Stay tuned for more posts later.
Here's more information about Capitol Reef National Park.
It's also not a bad idea to photograph the sign when you leave a place (for obvious reasons).
The Visitor Center very fittingly blends in well with its surroundings. It's well worth a visit to pick up maps and information, look at the exhibits, watch a short video, buy souvenirs and use the rest rooms. The location is at the junction of the Scenic Drive and Route 24.
I really only had time to travel along the Scenic Drive and back and then continue east along the main road. However, the park really needs a couple of days to explore.
Looking at the photos, you can see that Capitol Reef National Park is one of those really rocky Utah parks. It's comprised of 378 square miles of towering landforms, canyons, mesas and folded rock layers and it's a photographer's Paradise (most of my photos of Utah are rocks, rocks and more rocks!). Stay tuned for more posts later.
Here's more information about Capitol Reef National Park.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Amazing Arches is Absolutely Awesome
Arches National Park, in southern Utah, USA, is absolutely awe inspiring. So much so that the state has actually put an image of Delicate Arch, located in the park, on vehicle number plates. I'm obviously not the only one gobsmacked by this national park!
It's easy to get to being not that far out of Moab, action capital of Utah. Just take US 191 and travel for about 5 miles north of Moab - a national park situated so close to a major town. How good is that?
After you've picked up your information at the Arches Visitor Center, you then head up the winding road to really enter the park.
Obviously there are many arches in the park to give it its name. You may think a dozen or so but you'd be wrong. Apparently there are over 2,000 arches and they vary considerably in size from something a few feet across to the largest, which is Landscape Arch. This one is 306 feet wide and so skinny too!
Check out the Arches National Park website for further information.
It's easy to get to being not that far out of Moab, action capital of Utah. Just take US 191 and travel for about 5 miles north of Moab - a national park situated so close to a major town. How good is that?
After you've picked up your information at the Arches Visitor Center, you then head up the winding road to really enter the park.
Obviously there are many arches in the park to give it its name. You may think a dozen or so but you'd be wrong. Apparently there are over 2,000 arches and they vary considerably in size from something a few feet across to the largest, which is Landscape Arch. This one is 306 feet wide and so skinny too!
Check out the Arches National Park website for further information.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Fran's Backpack - Bryce Canyon National Park, UT - Trails Illustrated Map # 219
Fran's Backpack brings to you various products on travel, adventure, flying and photography.
They could be books, ebooks, videos, or gear. Check each one out as it's highlighted on the day.
Today's item in the Backpack is Bryce Canyon National Park, UT - Trails Illustrated Map # 219 [Folded Map] from National Geographic.
To get the most enjoyment out of a national park, you need a good map. Check out this one.
Click on the ad for more information.
Product Description
The map includes the entire national park area, with detailed trails and topographic information. Also included are portions of Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument, Bryce Ampitheater, Sunrise Point, Bryce Canyon Lodge, Black Birch Canyon, Rainbow Point, the Queens Garden Trail, and more. Includes UTM grids for use with your GPS unit.
Scale = 1:35,000 Size: 26'' x 38''
About the Author
Founded in 1915 as the Cartographic Group, the first division of the National Geographic Society, National Geographic Maps has been responsible for illustrating the world around us through the art and science of mapmaking.
Today, National Geographic Maps continues this mission by creating the world's best wall maps, recreation maps, atlases, and globes which inspire people to care about and explore their world. All proceeds from the sale of National Geographic maps go to support the Society's non-profit mission to increase global understanding and promote conservation of our planet through exploration, research, and education.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Squirrel Stands Up To Snake in Zion National Park, Utah
A hike along the trail in Zion National Park, Utah, led to several discoveries of wildflowers and also wildlife.
Walking in a group may allow for socialising but the noise made by the group can often scare away wildlife and it sometimes drowns out the sounds of nature, like running rivers, bird songs and animal antics.
I'd just left the trail to escape the endless number of noisy hikers and have a closer look at the river and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet. On my way back to join the trail I heard this commotion in a fenced off clearing. I thought it sounded like a rattle (I may have been mistaken though).
However, when I looked closer I saw a squirrel and a snake having a go at each other.
The snake definitely didn't like the squirrel in its patch and there was dust flying everywhere with the squirrel artfully dodging the snake's strike. However, it didn't matter how angry the snake was (click on the photo to zoom in on it), that squirrel was determined to stand its ground even if it meant being bitten.
I took several photos (without tele lens unfortunately) before the snake gave up and retreated from the dust bath created by the squirrel. I've always thought squirrels were cute and quick but this particular one was a feisty little critter as well!
A couple of observations:
Walking in a group may allow for socialising but the noise made by the group can often scare away wildlife and it sometimes drowns out the sounds of nature, like running rivers, bird songs and animal antics.
However, when I looked closer I saw a squirrel and a snake having a go at each other.
The snake definitely didn't like the squirrel in its patch and there was dust flying everywhere with the squirrel artfully dodging the snake's strike. However, it didn't matter how angry the snake was (click on the photo to zoom in on it), that squirrel was determined to stand its ground even if it meant being bitten.
I took several photos (without tele lens unfortunately) before the snake gave up and retreated from the dust bath created by the squirrel. I've always thought squirrels were cute and quick but this particular one was a feisty little critter as well!
A couple of observations:
- if you're going to enjoy nature en masse, then keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut
- watch where you're walking (as an Aussie, part of bushwalking is watching out for snakes on the trail anyway)
- cute and cuddly doesn't necessarily mean weak and lacking courage (perceptions can often be wrong)
- even if you think you're facing insurmountable odds you can sometimes achieve success through sheer determination
Monday, April 18, 2011
Flyabout in Alaska - "Float Planes of Alaska" DVD Out Now!
For people who live in North America, especially mainland USA and Canada, I've produced a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
Although my videos are mostly designed for aged care, they're still great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
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Tuesday, April 12, 2011
"Float Planes of Alaska" DVD coming soon
For people who live in North America especially, I've decided to produce a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place. There are over 200 float planes in this DVD but as you'll see red is my favourite colour!
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. As usual I'll be producing in NTSC and PAL format and the price will be the same at $25.00 plus postage.
If you'd like to reserve a copy, email me at fran@franwest.com.
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