Lightning Everywhere

We were treated to some light show last night. There was so much heat lightning that at times it looked like a strobe light sitting outside. Between releases of strobing energy high in the sky, an occasional bolt would strike the ground. This long exposure photo captured multiple strikes over a period of about three minutes. Shot at f7 in bulb mode.

Loudoun Milking Barn

This photo is of a decaying milking barn located just north of Round Hill. It must have been a site of great activity at one time. A deer was sleeping inside as I arrived and fled in a panic. It likely receives few visitors these days.

Below is a link to an experiment that I am working on. A special lens is used to capture a scene in 360 degrees. The result allows the user to interact inside of the navigable photo. Let me know what you think:

Interactive Top of the Ridge

You know you're in western Loudoun when...

...you see a sign for a lost calf. Yep, we grow 'em smart out this way, especially along Snickersville Tpk. I saw a couple of them climbing fences last year. Seems to me that escape plans slipped into the hands of our livestock. Just set yourself free Elsie, don't make it messy Bessie, open the cell Clarabelle....just listen to me. There must be 50 ways to leave your farmer.

Soaring hawk / Community hug

The first photo shows one of the soaring hawks mentioned in my Monday post. The second photo is of my booth from the Arts in the Alley show this past weekend, my first outdoor show. I can't say enough about the community support I received. Thanks to everyone who visited, for the kind comments and for the sales. I met another Loudoun Photographer (Elizabeth) and a painter (Rayhart) from Ashburn, see their websites listed on my local artists list.

Incredible day on the ridge

Yesterday's hike included acres of waist high field grass, soaring hawks and sprawling views. The sky was filled with wispy clouds that painted spectacular patterns above. These two photos were taken on the east side of the ridge in Bluemont. The view from bench of the second photo reveals Reston on the horizon (not in this photo, however.)

Blue Ridge Center

The Blue Ridge Center is located on Route 671 in Neersville. This 900 acre reserve serves as an environmental stewardship complete with hiking trails and organic farming. Some of the hiking trails feature civil war era buildings that remain standing today. 1/125 sec. at f10.

Arts in the Ally 6/10

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, June 10, come out to Purcellville for the third annual Arts in the Alley show. This year, the show will be bigger than ever. My booth will be in the center 21st street. It will be the only booth with a recycled and reconfigured trampoline being used to hang prints. Be sure to say hi if you swing by.

Wine making in the hills of Loudoun

Another spectacular weekend in western Lounoun. After a hike at the Blue Ridge Center, surrounded by lush old growth (photos coming), my son and I stopped by the Hillsborough Winery to enjoy the view. This winery is located along Rt. 9 just north of Round Hill. There are several wineries in the area, each offers tours and tastes. Details: Canon 20D, 24-70mm lens, f22 @ 1/10 sec, actual tripod, very muddy boots, unshaven, thirsty and upbeat.

Furry Little Dipper

This little dipper is standing in the stream that feeds Sleeter Lake. I was so excited about finally getting a decent deer photo shot that I slammed the truck in park and bolted into a neighbor's yard. Not a great photo, but I captured a deer in a creek looking at me (I usually end up looking at deer butt instead).