Mike's best efforts for 2010

[Mike-PDX]

While these shots may not measure up to many of the rest of the fine photographers on this forum, to me they show a definite improvement over past years. And after all, that's what is important on my photographic journey. If you look at this and get the sense that I have to leave home to take a photo, you may be right. Several of these have been posted here before, usually to ask for pp help.

Let's begin the journey with a whale-watching trip to Laguna San Ignacio, Baja California, Mexico.

Just a Fluke

Scratching my back - the hard way

And of course, some day trips to photograph trains in the Columbia River Gorge.

Eastbound with Mt. Hood near Celilo on a clear April morning.

Westbound at Rowena

The Oregon Coast isn't too far away.

Proposal Rock at Nescowin

On another trip to chase trains in Nevada.

Sunset over Winnemucca

Then there was the vacation trip to Vancouver Island.

Ready to depart

And a short trip to Vernon, BC.

Beginning to turn

And finally a couple that may not be my best, but they are among my favorites.

Nevada Northern Time Warp - I haven't done much B&W, but I liked the feeling of this one

Steam Heat - not a great shot, but I was proud of the effort it took to clone out a bunch of power lines

Thanks for looking - c&c always welcome!

 

[BobH]

While these shots may not measure up to many of the rest of the fine photographers on this forum, to me they show a definite improvement over past years. And after all, that's what is important on my photographic journey...

OK, first of all, you've got some very nice images in this set, well done.

Secondly, and most important. This isn't a contest or even a comparision. I know you realize that, but I want to point that out to everyone, just so it's totally clear. It doesn't matter whether you're a full time pro, or just getting started, EVERYONE is welcome and encouraged to participate in this category (and all categories for that matter.)

You put it very well, what is important on your personal photographic journey is that you're improving. How do you define "Improving"? Simple, it means you like the shots you're getting now more than you liked the shots you were getting previously. That's all that matters.

 

[Catsbow]

Beautiful. I was at San Ignacio Lagoon 3 years ago. It was amazing.

 

[Mike-PDX]

Thanks Catsbow. Yes San Ignacio is a special experience. I posted a lot more shots from that trip on Flickr. Here's the link if you're interested.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/40260280@N04/collections/72157623418108225/

 

[JaniceL]

You train people are giving me the urge to chase trains. Great shots all.

 

[Catsbow]

Great collection on flickr.

 

[Digital Latte]

You train people are giving me the urge to chase trains. Great shots all.

that's what I was thinking too!!

great images !!!

 

[Christena]

Mike, you've got some awesome shots here!! The last made look and look again...the sunset is beautiful and the boat is perfect...well done!

 

[Cher O]

Nice shots all, Mike.

I agree with Janice. Makes me want to chase trains too. And sunsets. And ships. And.... C.

 

[Mike-PDX]

Thanks for the feedback.

Thank you all for your generous comments. I must say this "Best of" series has been very informative and inspiring. It's wonderful to see everyone's best work in this kind of a context, and it's great to have a place to share the work.

Thanks to Bob and all the moderators for putting up with us.