Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Showing posts with label photography. Show all posts
Showing posts with label photography. 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.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Photographs as wrapped canvas wall art
One way of using your photographs is to upload them to a Print On Demand website like Zazzle.
I've just opened a new store on Zazzle: Fran West Photography.
It "specialises in unique wall art for home, corporate and commercial use. Wall art brings flair, elegance and style to your spaces. It provides an instant colour palette and creates a focal point. It brings a sense of texture and makes spaces appear finished. Make a statement or set the mood with original photographs from Australian pilot/adventurer, Fran West (Adventurer Fran)".
At the moment there are eight categories to search through, with some categories expanding even further. Click here to go to the website.
I've just opened a new store on Zazzle: Fran West Photography.
At the moment there are eight categories to search through, with some categories expanding even further. Click here to go to the website.
You can choose to have the wrapped canvas in colour, sepia or black & white.
Various sizes, widths and styles of the actual canvas can also be customised to your taste and you can even add your own text to the wall art.
Please drop by and have a look. More products will be added during the coming months.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue Inc.
I love to photograph animals and birds in order to put their photos into my DVDs or on products in places like CafePress and Zazzle (http://www.cafepress.com.au/profile/franwest1 and
http://www.zazzle.com/adventurerfran).
One of the animal programmes which I watch is Bondi Vet.
Last episode had the Twinnies and their Pelican & Seabird Rescue place, so I decided to make a donation to help them out. They're located in Queensland.
If you want to help out here's the site: http://twinnies.com.au/. Every little bit counts!
One of the animal programmes which I watch is Bondi Vet.
Last episode had the Twinnies and their Pelican & Seabird Rescue place, so I decided to make a donation to help them out. They're located in Queensland.
If you want to help out here's the site: http://twinnies.com.au/. Every little bit counts!
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Greater Flamingo at the Adelaide Zoo, South Australia
Last year, "Greater", the Greater Flamingo at the Adelaide Zoo, South Australia, died at the ripe old age of 83 years.
I remember seeing the flamingo standing on one leg right from the time when I was a child many years ago.
The bird was beautiful with its stately plumage and not much went unnoticed as the bird watched people pass by its home.
I'm sure its photo has been taken countless times but here's the photo which I took and made into a series of interactive jigsaw puzzles.
I've had the pleasure of seeing flamingos in the wild when I was trekking in South America, but they were never that close that I could have touched them like "Greater" at the Adelaide Zoo.
Maybe you don't agree with animals and birds being kept in captivity, but many modern zoos these days love and respect the creatures they care for and provide them with food, a home, safety (free from predators) and their own free medical health plan.
And for the people who aren't able to travel to places from where the animals come, zoos provide a tiny glimpse of wildlife which lives on our planet.
Animal and bird photography can be a bit tricky at times, so patience is required. Standing or sitting quietly and not making any sudden movements is also essential.
In a walk-in bird aviary a telephoto lens isn't really necessary unless you want close ups of plumage etc. However, a telephoto or zoom lens can be of real benefit when photographing in the wild and you are unable to get really close to the subject.
The Birds Interactive Jigsaw Puzzle CD is available for purchase below. Here's the link for more information on my jigsaw puzzles on CD.
I remember seeing the flamingo standing on one leg right from the time when I was a child many years ago.
The bird was beautiful with its stately plumage and not much went unnoticed as the bird watched people pass by its home.
I'm sure its photo has been taken countless times but here's the photo which I took and made into a series of interactive jigsaw puzzles.
Maybe you don't agree with animals and birds being kept in captivity, but many modern zoos these days love and respect the creatures they care for and provide them with food, a home, safety (free from predators) and their own free medical health plan.
And for the people who aren't able to travel to places from where the animals come, zoos provide a tiny glimpse of wildlife which lives on our planet.
Animal and bird photography can be a bit tricky at times, so patience is required. Standing or sitting quietly and not making any sudden movements is also essential.
In a walk-in bird aviary a telephoto lens isn't really necessary unless you want close ups of plumage etc. However, a telephoto or zoom lens can be of real benefit when photographing in the wild and you are unable to get really close to the subject.
The Birds Interactive Jigsaw Puzzle CD is available for purchase below. Here's the link for more information on my jigsaw puzzles on CD.
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.
 |
| 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.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Soar Beyond Your Wildest Expectations
Dear Readers,
Posting more articles and images to this blog will resume in a week or so.
For the last couple of months I've be collaborating on our new ebook - "Free Internet Marketing for Small Business". This is due for release towards the end of February 2013.
In the meantime, please enjoy "Soar beyond your wildest expectations".
This photo was taken during the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola, in the Gammon Ranges, in Outback South Australia.
Here's the link to Dropbox so you can download it for use as an inspirational poster or for use on your computer as a desktop wallpaper.
Posting more articles and images to this blog will resume in a week or so.
For the last couple of months I've be collaborating on our new ebook - "Free Internet Marketing for Small Business". This is due for release towards the end of February 2013.
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| "Soar beyond your wildest expectations", Ridge Top Tour, Arkaroola, Gammon Ranges, Outback South Australia |
This photo was taken during the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola, in the Gammon Ranges, in Outback South Australia.
Here's the link to Dropbox so you can download it for use as an inspirational poster or for use on your computer as a desktop wallpaper.
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.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Animal Photography at Alma Park Zoo near Brisbane
A few weeks ago I was in Brisbane, Queensland, and visited one of the city's prime attractions, Alma Park Zoo. The aim was of course to photograph the animals for further dvds and interactive jigsaw puzzles.
I didn't bother renting a car, so I took the train to the outer suburbs and then proceded to walk for half an hour to arrive at the Alma Park Zoo before opening time. As usual, I kept stopping to photograph whatever caught my eye.
The entrance to the zoo is eye catching and the landscaping is stunning. A beautiful environment for both humans and animals.
It's worth arriving early and leaving late to catch the animals at different times of the day, attend the keeper talks and see the animals at feeding times.
As an Australian, I'm partial to koalas (which are not bears by the way) but I also love the Madagascan ringtail lemurs.
I love talking to the animals when I take photographs.
I'm sure they relate to the tone of my voice and appreciate when I thank them for their patience!
One of the features of this smallish zoo is the obvious bond between the keepers and the animals.
It goes beyond just the provision of food.
Here's my take on animals talking back.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
"This fresh fruit and veg is yummy, isn't it?"
"It certainly is and the silver service isn't too bad either."
"Being hand fed is my personal favourite though."
"And all on our own island Paradise."
There'll be a few more blog posts with animal comments later on so stay tuned.
Here's the link to a great day's outing at Alma Park Zoo.
I didn't bother renting a car, so I took the train to the outer suburbs and then proceded to walk for half an hour to arrive at the Alma Park Zoo before opening time. As usual, I kept stopping to photograph whatever caught my eye.
It's worth arriving early and leaving late to catch the animals at different times of the day, attend the keeper talks and see the animals at feeding times.
As an Australian, I'm partial to koalas (which are not bears by the way) but I also love the Madagascan ringtail lemurs.
I love talking to the animals when I take photographs.
I'm sure they relate to the tone of my voice and appreciate when I thank them for their patience!
One of the features of this smallish zoo is the obvious bond between the keepers and the animals.
It goes beyond just the provision of food.
Here's my take on animals talking back.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
"This fresh fruit and veg is yummy, isn't it?"
"It certainly is and the silver service isn't too bad either."
"Being hand fed is my personal favourite though."
"And all on our own island Paradise."
There'll be a few more blog posts with animal comments later on so stay tuned.
Here's the link to a great day's outing at Alma Park Zoo.
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.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Sometimes it's easier to talk to the animals than photograph them
Animal photography is something I'm still learning. Photographing Australia's coast (it's the 13th anniversary of my flight today) seemed to be a lot simpler. Even though the plane was moving, the landscape wasn't.
With animals there can be a bit of a problem. They move. Just as I go to take the perfect shot, the animal decides to move, to eat, to play. And particularly with photographing animals at a zoo or wildlife park, there's the added bonus of glass or fence or bars as the case may be.
I've been attending a lot of conferences lately and with my Adelaide Zoo pass I've been able to gain free entry to the Melbourne Zoo and Sydney's Taronga Park Zoo. They're great places to practice animal and bird photography.
My success has been due to taking a lot of photos, using the camera's original lens and then changing over to the telephoto lens. I also walk around the zoo several times during the day to get the different light and to see the animals engaging in their normal behaviour.
If possible, I return to the zoo on another day when the weather can be different and I'm in time for keeper talks about the animals, animal feeding times and the variety of shows where the animals (e.g. the seals) perform.
You can see the results of the successful photos at http://www.digitalsgreat.blogspot.com.au/ with DVDs like "A day at the Zoo" and "A day at the Show" and interactive jigsaw puzzles like "African Animals" and "Birds".
However, Animal Photography: A Practical Guide, by Robert Maier, is something that would be handy to study before I venture out again.
Animal Photography: A Practical Guide
Check it out (as I will be doing) by clicking on the photo for more information and to buy.
With animals there can be a bit of a problem. They move. Just as I go to take the perfect shot, the animal decides to move, to eat, to play. And particularly with photographing animals at a zoo or wildlife park, there's the added bonus of glass or fence or bars as the case may be.
I've been attending a lot of conferences lately and with my Adelaide Zoo pass I've been able to gain free entry to the Melbourne Zoo and Sydney's Taronga Park Zoo. They're great places to practice animal and bird photography.
My success has been due to taking a lot of photos, using the camera's original lens and then changing over to the telephoto lens. I also walk around the zoo several times during the day to get the different light and to see the animals engaging in their normal behaviour.
If possible, I return to the zoo on another day when the weather can be different and I'm in time for keeper talks about the animals, animal feeding times and the variety of shows where the animals (e.g. the seals) perform.
You can see the results of the successful photos at http://www.digitalsgreat.blogspot.com.au/ with DVDs like "A day at the Zoo" and "A day at the Show" and interactive jigsaw puzzles like "African Animals" and "Birds".
However, Animal Photography: A Practical Guide, by Robert Maier, is something that would be handy to study before I venture out again.
Animal Photography: A Practical Guide
Check it out (as I will be doing) by clicking on the photo for more information and to buy.
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!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Australia's Coast Is Awesome As Jigsaw Puzzles
Australia's Coast jigsaw puzzles are great for viewing the coast from a different perspective. This time the photos for the jigsaws have been reproduced as dry brush stroke paintings, introducing a different element for enjoyment. All these aerial photos were taken during my flight around Australia's coast.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over. Best of all, you can't lose any pieces.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Tasman Island, off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Point Nepean, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Cape Wiles, on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, Disaster Bay (aptly named because of shipwrecks) in New South Wales, and the Useless Loop Salt Pans in the Shark Bay area of Western Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over. Best of all, you can't lose any pieces.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Tasman Island, off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Point Nepean, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Cape Wiles, on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, Disaster Bay (aptly named because of shipwrecks) in New South Wales, and the Useless Loop Salt Pans in the Shark Bay area of Western Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
Monday, March 12, 2012
London's Historic Buildings Make Beautiful Jigsaw Puzzles
London, England, is a vibrant place and its historic buildings have many interesting tales to tell. They're also a photographer's delight and I've made their photos into interactive Jigsaw Puzzles which can be done on a computer or laptop.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of some of London's iconic buildings like the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the National Gallery and Admiralty Arch.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of some of London's iconic buildings like the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the National Gallery and Admiralty Arch.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Welsh Castles Aren't A Puzzle, They're Really Wonderful
Wales is blessed with castles of all types and from different historic periods. They are a photographer's delight and I've made their photos into interactive Jigsaw Puzzles which can be done on a computer or laptop.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a 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 jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
In this 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.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a 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 jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Fran's Backpack - Travel Photography
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 Travel Photography, by Steve Davey.
Many of the visitors to this site come via clicking on "images" in the search engines. For those who want to know more about taking their own images check out this book.
Travel Photography
"Footprint Travel Photography" is going to change the way that you travel. Written by acclaimed author and photographer of 'Unforgettable Places to see Before you Die' Steve Davey, it covers everything that you need to know about travel photography including preparation, exploring with a camera, all of the technical stuff as well as hints and tips about virtually every travel photography scenario. There is even a comprehensive section on post-processing your pictures using some of the most popular computer software, and tips on making money from your photography.Whatever camera you use and whatever your level this book is packed with information for you. There are Pro-Tips, information about shooting in RAW format, as well as specific information for users of film SLRs, digital compacts as well as Digital SLRs. Broken down by technique and photography style, rather than destination, the layout of this book makes it easy for you to decide what kind of picture you're trying to take and find, at a glance, the right techniques for you. As well as taking pictures, this book will inspire you to head out and see the world. Packed with inspirational pictures and anecdotes from Steve's years on the road, this book is a call to get out and explore.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Father's Day Gifts: Blokey DVDs and Photo Downloads
Father's Day (Australia and New Zealand) is almost here and if you're looking for a great gift for Dad consider these.
"Outback Adventure", "Australia's Coast from the Air", "Awesome Aviation", Float Planes of Alaska", "Maritime Mix", "Marvellous Machinery", "Tasmania's Overland Track" and "Wonderful Wheels" DVDs are ideal (very blokey!). They're also very good to relax with and reminisce.
Have a look at snippets of the DVDs here.
Maybe a photo download would be more suitable or even complement one of the DVDs. Check out the Photo Downloads page.
If you order as soon as possible via the website you may be able to receive the DVDs before Father's Day. Downloads are easier because they're sent via email.
So, order now to avoid dissapointment!
"Outback Adventure", "Australia's Coast from the Air", "Awesome Aviation", Float Planes of Alaska", "Maritime Mix", "Marvellous Machinery", "Tasmania's Overland Track" and "Wonderful Wheels" DVDs are ideal (very blokey!). They're also very good to relax with and reminisce.
Have a look at snippets of the DVDs here.
Maybe a photo download would be more suitable or even complement one of the DVDs. Check out the Photo Downloads page.
If you order as soon as possible via the website you may be able to receive the DVDs before Father's Day. Downloads are easier because they're sent via email.
So, order now to avoid dissapointment!
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.
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
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