Val in Real Life LLC

Category: Photography

I caught the photography bug a couple of decades ago. It’s been an integral part of my life and relaying my adventures here on the blog. I share my journey, thoughts, stories, struggles, and triumphs here.

Foundations
Back in March I wrote about why it’s important to keep your bucket full. But I realized my thoughts at the time were an incomplete picture of the tools needed to weather unfortunate life events.
A full bucket is actually about creating a foundation. When your bucket is full or close-to-full, it means you’ve been mindfully living your life. That happiness is what you need to get through the emotional struggle of life’s challenges. But there’s more to it.
The foundation you create by purposefully tending your life on a daily basis means that those actions will become second-nature. And when you need to go on autopilot during tough times, that foundation is there to lean on. Now almost four months into my recovery from January’s brutal crash, I’ve realized what’s been crucial to my process is a sort muscle memory for the things I love that fill my bucket: travel, photography, yoga, hiking, knitting, and motorcycling.
Because I practice these things as a lifestyle, I now see that I’ve been tapping into that muscle memory over the last several months. It’s a foundation I created by flexing those muscles with dedication before the crash. Deep down, I knew I could trust that the joy would return if I stayed the course in spite of the fact that my ability to undertake my favorite activities was diminished, and often painful. I had to fiercely pursue what I knew I loved even though it didn’t necessarily feel good.
This realization came to me in late March as I limped and hobbled down the path to the chapel at Callaway Gardens during my annual GNPA photography expo. It was my first trip since the crash. I’d been walking, in only a very technical sense mind you, for a week. The energy it took to simply get there was exhausting. So I flopped my weary body onto the bench by the lake to rest and consider what I might be able to shoot. I looked up at the building and laughed at the beautiful view. I thought, “Well, this is why they put this bench right here.” I lifted my infrared camera to my eye and composed an image. No tripod. No over-thinking. Just instinct. And it garnered me a third place ranking in the Expo’s competition. The juxtaposition between the difficulty to reach that spot and the ease of capturing a compelling image is so startling. It was simultaneously one of the easiest and hardest things I’ve ever done.
So even though it’s a struggle and I’m physically very far from whole, emotionally life is coming more naturally every day. It’s a very odd tug-of-war finally being mentally ready for challenges but constantly butting up against the physical limitations I still face.
With that lakeside image at Callaway Gardens though, I realized I was tapping into a place that hadn’t been aware of until then. A familiar place. One that is almost second-nature because I built the foundation. Two weeks later, when I pitched my tent for the first time in many months at Horizons Unlimited, it was another little victory. The task was still difficult but I was successful. That was unthinkable a few weeks earlier. And in another two weeks when I returned to the Smokies, intent upon finding myself again, it was there… my love of photography and nature and life.
At home, I’ve begun dabbling with some basic yoga again… and in the process I found out my strength and flexibility are the worst they’ve been in my life. It’s painfully frustrating and I’ve had to push pass the anger. But the balance is still there. And that’s something. It’s a similar story with hiking and knitting. Diminished, difficult… but the foundation is strong.
These things didn’t fail me because I nurtured them. They waited patiently until I could begin to fully embrace them again. I think this is why it’s important to make time for the things you love. Because when we do, we are building a foundation that includes a full bucket. It’s a personal investment. Having that foundation doesn’t make this process easy by any stretch of the imagination. But it does make it possible. There’s a very distinct difference and I wouldn’t be where I am right now without it. And do you know what comes with realizing what’s possible? Hope.
So I leave you with this…
Not my best or favorite image by far. But a very symbolic one for me.

May 8, 2015
Healing and Joy
Right now in my life, my biggest task to address everyday is healing. Of both the physical and emotional sort. Everyday is a mental tennis match between knowing I’m getting better and the weariness of what my life is right now. Because the progress is so gradual and grudging, I have to force myself to look back a week, two weeks, etc. to remind myself where I was at each of those points and take stock of how far I’ve come.
I’m an advocate of being mindful of what makes you happy in life and using that to get through tougher times. Except this time around, all of the things I tap into are not available to me. I can’t physically do any of them… hiking, yoga, motorcycling, or photography. Even knitting is a challenge since my hand is not doing all that well since the crash. So I’m having to explore new ways to achieve the same effect or at least enough to push past this to the next phase of recovery when I can ease back into the things I love.
My mentor and friend, Will Clay, has a lovely little email newsletter he sends out. In the few weeks before my life took a very unexpected turn, he addressed healing in a series of newsletters. Specifically he discussed the ability of nature and art, and by extension, photography, to heal the spirit. As you can imagine, that’s an idea I embrace with gusto. But while I agree with the idea that healing can come from art, nature, and photography, to me there is the broader message of simply using what brings you joy, whatever that may be.
Will says the soul demands to be fed with what nourishes it. I agree. That nourishment is what feeds the healing process and is where joy is born. They are intimately connected. That’s why part of my healing will be returning to motorcycling when I’m able, as well as the other things I love that I’m currently deprived of doing.
What’s so intriguing about joy, though, is that it’s contagious. While I’m recovering, I’m watching my friends do the things that bring them joy and heal from the challenges they face in their lives. They may or may not be the same activities that fill my soul, but that doesn’t matter, it’s their joy that inspires me.
So today I’m hoping you’ll share with me the things you are passionate about, the things that you tap into to heal and find joy. For Will, it’s photography. For me, I have a handful of things I immerse myself in but they fall under the broad category of travel, outdoors, and nature. What do you do that brings you joy and healing?
If you don’t know what your happy place is, be mindful. Pay attention to when you feel lightest or when your troubles seem a little less overwhelming. What are you doing when that healing is happening? Is it photography like my mentor Will Clay? Is it visiting friends, knitting, music, hiking, writing, playing with your children or pets, cooking, or some… (ahem!) adult-time connecting with your partner?
Think big. Think small. But find it. In fact, find a few you can tap into under different circumstances. Use them when you need it most and when you don’t. Nurture that joy so you have a reserve to weather tougher times.
And don’t overlook new things that have the potential to heal the imbalance in your life. If you told me five or ten years ago that motorcycling would be one of my go-to happy things, I would have told you to stop smoking whatever it is you’re smoking. But there’s a reason riders call it throttle-therapy…
And by all means, whatever heals you, share it. Let your joy be contagious. Pay it forward, if you will.
So I leave you with this…
Follow your bliss, friends.
February 27, 2015
The Beauty of Gray
I’m a fan of black-and-white photography. Without the distraction of color, you can immerse yourself in the tones that are somehow both simple and visually intricate. The depth lies in the beauty of gray tones in which patterns and forms come to the forefront of the image. Gradients are more pronounced. Textures come alive.
Recently while jamming through my work day behind the scenes here at Val in Real Life HQ, I revisited one of my favorite songs from the band Live called “The Beauty Of Gray”. (You can buy the song via my Amazon affiliate link here.) That song got me thinking about the corollary between black-and-white photography and life. Because monotone photography is anything but a simple matter of black and white, just like life.
The beauty lies in all of the tones in between the extremes—what photographers call the mid-tones. Just like images, those mid-tones give our lives depth. In photography it’s a visual feast; in life it is an emotional one. The mid-tones tell the story, the one that isn’t contained within the stark contrasts of the pure white and pure black.
When applied to our mindsets and thinking, viewing the world in black and white both sterilizes life and polarizes our conversations. If we insist on living in the extremes, we’ll always be at odds with one another. And no way to bridge the gap. Without the mid-tones, we can’t see the full picture of life and its intricacies.
This is one of the reasons I value my travels so greatly. Experiencing so many different people, communities, and lifestyles has given me a broader world-view. Travel encourages us to open our eyes and allow the full spectrum of light to overcome the myopia of too-limited personal experiences. Because in that small place, it’s too easy to over-simplify with binary thinking—us/them, on/off, good/bad.
When you step into the bigger world, you see how dynamic humanity actually is. You fill in the missing narrative with real experience. In that mental place—informed, aware, open-minded—you understand that black-and-white judgements have no place in a world filled with the infinite human possibilities and conditions that exist around us every day.
So I leave you with this —
The color of truth is gray. ~Andre Gide
Cheers, friends.

November 21, 2014
Mentor
Today I’m back in the Great Smoky Mountains for my photographic family reunion. It’s time for the Autumn Brilliance workshop again and this is where I come to get rejuvenated and inspired by my friends and mentors.
There’s an undertone of melancholy to this one, though. While it’s only my fourth fall workshop at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, Will Clay has been leading it for 25 years. And this is his last as he hands the reins over to my buddy, Tom Vadnais. Will is moving on to teach the advanced workshops here so he won’t be disappearing, but the fall workshop will not be the same without him.
His role as a mentor has been invaluable in shaping my photography skills, both technically and emotionally. He’s honest and encouraging. His passion and energy are contagious. And even though I’ve attended this workshop many times, I find that I always have more to learn from him. I know that I will forever have a Little Will on my shoulder, whispering in my ear…
“Photograph like you mean it.”
Thank you, Will.
Looking back to my first workshop and how far I’ve come with Will’s help…

October 24, 2014
George L. Smith State Park: A Photo Essay
Last weekend, the Camp Granola crew set off for a camping adventure in George L. Smith State Park in central Georgia. It was one of many trips we’ve taken around the state to complete the Georgia State Parks Geocaching Challenge. Being the types inclined to head to the mountains, the challenge has forced us to step put of our comfort zone and visit places that wouldn’t have been on our radar. The result is that we’ve discovered some really amazing places and it’s expanded our notions of what makes for great outdoor adventure locations.
George L. Smith State Park was no exception…
The icon of George L. Smith State Park, the Parrish Mill.
The Parrish Mill is a combination of grist mill, saw mill, covered bridge, and dam.
Built in 1880, the mill serves as the dam that holds 412-acre lake.
Downstream of the mill, the water churns its way down 15-mile Creek.
The mill museum is the gateway to the hiking trails.
The old mill generator is one of the many pieces of history to be seen at the museum.
Parrish Mill artifact.
412-acre lake is a paradise for both anglers and paddlers.
Three sisters stand out from the crowd.
Let your cares drift away in the silence of winter here.
Take a boat out and drift among the cypress and tupelo.
Be mesmerized by the dancing reflections in gentle winds.
A natural lake mirror makes the landscape more vibrant.
Two big brothers look over their little brother in the lake.
Sitting on the edge of the calm lake, you can get lost in the depth this subtle landscape has to offer.
Glassy waters give way to ripples in the gentle, cooling breezes that sweep across the lake.
George L. Smith State Park is more about boating than hiking but the 3 mile trail makes for a nice walk along the edge of the lake and through the drier lands that include gopher tortoise habitat.
The Disapproving Beagle helped us claim the George L. Smith State Park cache as part of the geocaching challenge.
Even from our camp’s backyard, the constantly changing light provided hours of dramatic textures.
Camp in the shade of cypress at George L. Smith State Park.
The combination of tall trees and watery reflections make for surreal images right at the edge of camp.
The hammock view from camp.
And now for your moment of green…
Get lost in the waters and reflections of George L. Smith State Park.

March 10, 2014
Discovering Death Valley
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of spending some time in Death Valley National Park. Unlike a typical lengthy road trip with Fred and George, this was a quickie solo blast out-and-back involving planes, rental cars, and the general travel mayhem I try to avoid. Those necessary evils were well-worth the effort though.
Sunrise at Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes
The sunrise light on the downed wood in the dunes was entrancing.
The backstory
This trip started with the desire to attend one of David Middleton’s workshops. I discovered the joys of his photography and storytelling a few years ago when he visited Georgia for the Georgia Nature Photographers Association’s annual Expo. I was instantly hooked by his curmudgeonly sense of humor and his talent. When I saw he was heading to Death Valley, I knew I had to be there too.
But I got to thinking about all the effort and expense of making this trip for the 5-day workshop. As often happens with my planning process, I figure if I’m going to go all the way out there I might as well get a little more bang for my buck. Logistically I could only swing a few extra days but I was determined to get what time I could scrape together. Unfortunately, flying meant the inability to bring much beyond my clothes and camera gear. And being the type of traveler I am, I wanted to be able to explore away from the main Death Valley tourist hotspot at Furnace Creek.
That’s where groovy dirtbag friends come into the story. Thanks to ATQA-host-extraordinaire J. Brandon’s (AKA American Sahara) willingness to play tour guide, a mini-ATQA tweetup came to life since Wilderness Dave wanted to explore Death Valley for the first time. I myself had only been once before, so briefly I’m not sure it counts.
Since I had the challenge of getting there by plane, J. and Dave took care of gear, food, and all that jazz so I had to do nothing but show up. Let me tell you, it’s a pretty sweet deal if you can get it.
American Sahara taking a break from toting me & Dave around Death Valley.
The glowing sunset on the rock faces at Dante’s View.
The Park
At over 5,000 square miles, the Death Valley National Park is astoundingly huge, especially for an east-coast girl. It’s the largest in the Lower 48 and it’s size means there’s no shortage of adventures to be had, from casual road-side points-of-interest to 4-wheel-drive backcountry exploration. If you’re a fan of inexplicable landscapes and nature, you’ll be as awed by the extremes here as I was. Extreme temperatures, extreme elevations, extreme landscapes that house extreme plants and animals, etc. It seems Death Valley doesn’t know how to do anything half-way.
You can get the info on all the details that make this place a treasure from the Death Valley National Park website so no need to regurgitate it here…
Racetrack rocks in Infrared.
Shadow and light in Badwater Basin.
The experience
The first few days I was treated to adventures based out of the Mesquite Spring campground at the north end of the park. As far as the camping goes, Mesquite Spring was quite cozy and if you like to get away from the throngs, this is a great choice. The campers here were a much quieter breed than the ones I found at Furnace Creek early last year. Plus, Mesquite Spring is a great starting point to reach more northern, car-accessible locations of the park like Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes, Mosaic Canyon, and Ubehebe Crater as well as harder-earned destinations such as the famed Racetrack and Teakettle Junction. We were fortunate enough to reach those thanks to our personal tour guide with a big truck.
After three glorious days exploring and cut off from the world, we had a farewell lunch at the Corkscrew Saloon at Furnace Creek. At that point I had to switch gears into workshop mode, get serious, and brace myself for the early mornings ahead. The workshop was the original purpose of the trip and I was looking forward to it but I have to admit I so relaxed after my time camping that I wasn’t sure I could summon any photography mojo. I needn’t have worried though. It turns out that David Middleton and Brenda Berry are extremely motivating instructors, even to lazy wanna-be photographers such as myself.
Headquartered out of the Furnace Creek Resort for the duration of the workshop, hoteling this portion of the trip was yet another necessary evil. A good bed and electricity were in order for the long days and the need to process images. We stuck to standard-issue stops such as Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, and the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes, but the ease of reaching those locations meant we could concentrate on photography skills, not backcountry navigation. And those locations are popular because they’re iconic and stunning regardless of the crowds that you may share them with.
Even the smallest details of Death Valley are filled with texture and intrigue.
We may have stuck to well-visited spots during the workshop but that didn’t mean we had to stick to the standard shots. Here’s Darin Reed living on the edge.
In a nutshell
Being from the southeast, it’s always a treat to be able to experience the raw geology of the west. Death Valley in particular is fascinating and I was woefully unprepared to understand everything going on in terms of the geologic history here. I will say it was easily the grooviest place I’ve visited in terms of hard-rock geology… and that includes the Grand Canyon.
There I said it. I know that my seem like blasphemy but the sheer variety of rock types, the history of folding and crustal extension, and the complexity of formations and landscapes is mind-boggling. It makes the Grand Canyon look like geologic child’s play. In fact, I spent much of the time in Death Valley rendered speechless… much to the relief of my camp-mates I’m sure.
Even a few weeks later, it’s still hard to absorb the enormity and bad-assery of Death Valley. I spent a full week there and I’ve only scratched the surface as you can imagine. Dave & I were newbies in American Sahara’s playground and I know we’re both ready for the next round… and I will be ready to unleash some geo-nerd on them next time.
Wilderness Dave checks out the view at Mosaic Canyon.
So much of Death Valley screamed for infrared treatment.
Play it smart
For pete’s sake, don’t underestimate this place. Yes, there are developed places in a few areas that may give you a false sense of security but make no mistake this is wilderness and you can get yourself into trouble quickly with no help on the horizon. Cell signal is non-existent through the majority of the park and even GPS maps are known to be unreliable for the less-established roadways.
Death Valley has cemented itself as one of my favorite places.
December 3, 2013
Contrasts
Greetings from the watery world that is South Florida. Although I grew up in this sultry, soggy land, it’s always an eye-opener to return here after having been away for so long. When you spend most of your time along mountain rivers, the flat expanses of water and cypress here seem otherworldy. The mangroves, bromeliads, alligators, and cormorants of the swamps provide stark contrast to the maples, firs, salamanders, and boulders of the Southern Appalachian’s tumbling streams.
Even within the swamps of South Florida, the contrasts between open marshes and cypress forests are stark, connected by the charismatic creatures that move between these landscapes.
And while I find this place amazing and delightful, the contrasts make me realize with greater clarity that the landscapes that speak to me most are mountains and rivers. It’s there that I find the greatest comfort and ease. Having now taken in the rare beauty of Big Cypress Swamp for a time, I can return to my mountains with fresh eyes, ready to delight in their remarkable contrasts.
It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. ~ Henry David Thoreau
So accustomed to mountains these days, I forget how remarkably beautiful this flat, wet land can be.

December 28, 2012
Postcards from Real Life: Artistry
It’s time! Time to head back to Tremont for the Autumn Brilliance workshop. As I set forth this morning, it’s more about getting a break from the house-selling insanity than the photography but I’m hopeful by the time I get there, I’ll be in the proper mindset to focus on improving my skills and not just getting away from suburbia.
In the end what I’m hoping to channel this weekend is artistry. I’ve got to step out of blogger mode in which I’m trying to capture the essence of a trip or place through a series of images and push myself to take composition to new heights in a single image.
This idea takes me back a couple of years to a National Geographic seminar I took with one of my idols, Jim Richardson. Jim has been known to rent planes, trucks, etc. to fulfill the vision of an image he wants to capture. During the seminar he shared a dramatic image he shot from a moving truck he had to finagle in some way in order to get the shot. It’s a captivating image of course, but it seems some amateur once told him “I could have done that.” To which he replied “Yes, but did you?”
I’ve taken that anecdote to heart, knowing that you have to go to greater lengths to capture truly compelling images because there’s a world of difference between could have and did. With that in mind, what I’ll be mentally exercising this weekend is the idea of going all in to achieve true artistry.
And since it I’ll be spending the weekend with the fabulous Will Clay, I thought it would be appropriate to share one of my favorite Willism’s that is a nice companion for the Richardson anecdote…
Photograph like you mean it.
It may not look like it, but it took quite some doing to get this shot. Here’s wishing you the passion to go further in your pursuits this weekend. Whatever you do, do it like you mean it.
Yes, sir!

October 19, 2012
Time to Get Your Tremont On…
In just a few short weeks I will again set off to the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont for the Autumn Brilliance Workshop with Will Clay.
A man of few words, fellow Junkie Pat Kennedy shares his love of the Tremont workshop through his images.
My thoughts…
Just to refresh your memory on my love affair with this place, here’s a roundup of what I’ve written about Tremont so far…
Thoughts of others…
But I’d like to share the thoughts of Sue Milinkovich, the most seasoned of the Tremont Workshop Junkies, just to give you more than my humble opinion…
When I return to Tremont for the fall photo workshop, it will be my 19th workshop in a row – both spring and fall. People ask why I go back year after year vs. go somewhere else. First, I love the beauty of the Smokies – no matter what time of year you are there. Second, the workshop is awesome. There’s nothing like sharing your passion for nature and photography with a group of people willing to stand out in the early morning dark and cold, waiting for the first hint of sunrise on the horizon. Having four instructors gives you the opportunity to tap into all their different skills and areas of expertise. And they are so friendly and helpful and willing to share. Third, staying at Tremont is a chance to enjoy the quiet, beauty of the park and get away from the stressors of our daily lives. And, most important, coming to Tremont is like coming home for the best of all family reunions. The friendships I have developed over the years are some of the most special ones I have. I can’t imagine being anywhere else in April and October than Tremont and the photo workshops.
Instructors at the workshop are not the only source of inspiration. Watching Pat work (and work, and work…) until he finally achieved his vision on this one-inch tall mushroom hidden in the forest was invigorating. Being surrounded by people who share a love of the Smokies and photography is bound to leave you feeling renewed.
The edge…
I hope what comes through is that what you at Tremont is place. The Smoky Mountains themselves obviously hold their own allure but at Tremont the experience is elevated and it becomes a second home to many of us who visit.
So yes, you can take a workshop anywhere. You can even attend other workshops in the Smoky Mountains; there are certainly many to choose from. But as I, and others like Tom Vadnais, have mentioned before, the staff at Tremont sets the tone for a lively workshop that leaves you anticipating your return to an extended family. It’s more than a workshop, it’s a connection and there’s always something new to discover.
Get on board…
The photography workshops at Tremont are fully about photography, not amenities. The accommodations are simple and undistracting, allowing you to focus on soaking up everything you can from the fabulous instructors and students as well as your surroundings. We Tremonters know our workshop is the best and now you know too. (We’re givers that way. :D)
The good news for you is that there are still spots left for the fall workshop. So if you want to up your game and experience a truly rejuvenating retreat, go register! And tell them Val sent you. It won’t get you anything but you should tell them anyway. That way they’ll let me keep coming! 😉
And now for your moment of green…
Come discover all the Tremont Autumn Brilliance workshop has to offer!
September 27, 2012
Going Solo
I know you parents out there feel my pain. As rich as our kids make our lives, sometimes you need a little adult time. And when you spend as much time together as we do in our roadschooling pursuits, that becomes the understatement of the decade.
The entrance at Townsend, Tennessee, the self-proclaimed “quiet side” of the Smokies.
I’ve alluded to my July solo trip to the Smokies in recent posts about the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and Cades Cove but I’ve yet to give you the full rundown. Basically I spent a week camping in Cades Cove followed by a week of SANCP classes at Tremont. It was certainly a much needed respite from constantly being on mommy duty but it also gave me some time to focus on my personal pursuits, spend my time on my own terms, and get rejuvenated to jump back into the fold upon my return. I certainly missed my little camping buddies but I knew they were having adventures of a different kind that only a Gramma can provide. (Thanks Gramma!)
My original plans for this trip included lots of naturalist practice and photography on the more difficult trails that Fred and George would balk at tackling. This was my prime opportunity! Only my plans took a radical turn when a quite literal run-in with a rock in Colorado back in June left me with a very, very broken big toe. I had to scrap my backcountry bliss for roadside exploration…along with the countless other visitors that flock to the Smokies in the middle of summer. Little did I realize how educational the people-watching would be but given better circumstances, I would have stuck to my original plans.
At any rate, regardless of having to change up my plans, it was still an epic trip and I’m just now figuring out the best way to share my rare solo adventure with you. Unfortunately, sometimes an experience is almost too much to put into words. Since I can’t show you in images what this adventure meant to me in terms of personal satisfaction, I’m at least going to share with you some of the things I saw and hopefully you’ll understand why the Smokies are a fitting place to find your happy. (Just remember, it’s a zoo there in July.)
So without further ado, here’s some of the lovely that is the Great Smoky Mountains.
Cades Cove…
One of the perks of a July visit is the volatile weather. The constantly changing light made it hard to know what to shoot first. This field is at the north end of Hyatt Lane in Cades Cove.
Many visitors to the Smokies seek out the modern attractions of nearby Gatlinburg,TN for excitement but for me this is the kind of roadside attraction that stops me in my tracks. I could have spent hours investigating these beauties if not for the car-dodging required along the Cades Cove loop.
A artifact of history blemished by modern hands.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a compelling mix of history and nature.
While standing on Sparks Lane shooting the fog rolling through the cove, I was reminded to always turn around and see the possibilities behind me. Of course, camera set on another subject, I resorted to Instragram iPhoneography.
Tremont Road and the Middle Prong River…
This was one of the many times I found a surprise while looking at something else. In this case, this harvestman was nestled in the bark of a tree I was inspecting for its fabulous lichen offerings. (Top of Tremont Road at the Middle Prong trailhead.)
This shattered puzzle of geologic awesome is located in one of my favorite little spots along the Middle Prong.
Another of those surprises I mentioned. I was examining this tree for entirely different reasons when this big, wet, seriously tough looking beetle startled me.
This Lilliputian mushroom may only be about an inch tall, but what a marvel of detail in its little world.
Foothills Parkway…
I spent hours on the Foothills, studying plants, shooting the landscape, and working away on this blog. It’s certainly not a burden to plug in and work when this is your office view.
Newfound Gap…
After yet another summer storm, mesmerizing fog drifted up and over Newfound Gap.
Clingman’s Dome…
I put the “cling” in Clingman’s Dome to get this shot! On a steep, slippery, rain-soaked roadside, I clung to the slick grass, trying not to further distress my already throbbing toe in order to catch this bee on a misshapen sunflower. No tripod possibilities in this situation. Pure iPhone Instagram action here.
Roaring Forks Motor Drive…
Roaring Forks was a first for me. While I eventually managed a quiet place to shoot , it was so crowded along this motor trail, the roads were nearly impassable. Very beautiful but I don’t recommend it during the busy season…it’s an exercise in frustration.
And now for your moment of green…
No matter where you decide to visit in the Smokies, you’ll find beautiful surprises.

September 6, 2012
Find Your Photography Bliss at Tremont
As you know, I’ve become a bit of a Great Smoky Institute at Tremont junkie. It’s becoming a second home to me this year as I’m working toward my Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification. I simply love my time there and it’s time to catch you up a bit on why.
Discovering a “floating” sycamore leaf in a spider web is all sorts of granola groovy.
A little background…
On my first visit to Tremont last October for the Fall Photography workshop with Will Clay, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I’d taken a couple of day-long seminars but never a workshop. I’ve always been a do-it-yourselfer in that respect (i.e. stubborn), protesting that I could pick up what I needed without having to break away for workshops and seminars.
After watching my progress stagnate, I finally attended a couple of seminars quickly that convinced me how wrong I was, or rather, that I was doing it the hard way. After hearing Will talk in Atlanta, I was rabid to soak up more of his awesome at the Tremont workshop. And it was a real eye-opener!
Exploring the textures of Elkmont’s past.
Musings on workshops…
So why am I a convert to workshops? Well for one, it greatly speeds up the learning process. To have the opportunity to listen to knowledgable instructors, go out and put that knowledge into practice, then return to get constructive feedback – all in a focused setting – is invaluable.
Essentially it’s the same experiential learning I promote as a roadschooler with Fred and George. So why in the world did I not allow myself the same rich experience before now?
It was partly not knowing how to pick a good workshop and be certain it would be worth the time and money. There are plenty of horror stories out there about bad workshops. Vetting them can be real chore and, since not all great photographers are great teachers, having an instructor that takes nice shots isn’t enough to guarantee you’ll come away with greater photographic skills and understanding.
Bill Lea is the wildlife photography guru…clearly I still have a lot to learn.
So why Tremont?
Will came to speak through our local nature photography club, the Georgia Nature Photographers Association, which is where I discovered he was doing the workshop through Tremont. Having loved his seminar, I knew I had a lot more to learn from him and that I liked his style. The unknown for me was the location, the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, which I ended up loving instantly. So that’s how I discovered Tremont and the workshop but…
What makes this workshop all that?
Well, there’s the adage…location, location, location but it’s much more than that. Certainly being nestled in the Smoky Mountains is an advantage, but the atmosphere of the Institute itself, in combination with the assemblage of talent of both staff and instructors, is what elevates this workshop.
In the workshop setting at Tremont, you get down to the meat of the creative process. You get to see others’ techniques from initial vision to finished image and it is very enlightening. It helps you re-evaluate your processes, techniques, and dedication, opening the path to being a better photographer.
Many folks love the colors of Autumn in the Smokies, but Spring can be just as eye-catching.
Going back for more…
In spite of having an epic time at the Fall Photography Workshop, I was still uncertain about attending the Spring session because I wasn’t familiar with the lead instructor, Bill Lea. At this point you’d think I would know better than to doubt anything about Tremont’s programs yet I waffled about attending.
I can’t tell you how happy I am that I went. I didn’t imagine that anyone could match the entertainment value of Will Clay but Bill Lea is just a much fun and just as talented a photographer and instructor. The beauty of attending both workshops is that Will and Bill have such different styles and experience to offer.
Cades Cove is a main event at the Spring workshop.
What you can expect…
If you’re considering attending a Tremont photography workshop, here’s what you can expect:
- Lots of field work, rain or shine, and very early in the morning,
- Educational sessions in between field sessions,
- Inspiration from instructors and fellow students,
- Instructors who accommodate all levels of skill, from total newbies on up,
- Constructive and supportive feedback on your work,
- and fun! The atmosphere at Tremont is light-hearted and and the instructors are a hoot.
Oh, and you can expect a lot of good-natured ribbing if you oversleep for a morning field session. Not that I know about that from personal experience or anything…
Final thanks…
So a big thank you to Will and Bill for just being awesome and genuine. And a big thank you to the other instructors who are all equally fabulous: Todd Moore for holding my hand through post-processing and not laughing too hard at my ineptitude, Ken Thompson for his macro inspiration, and Jeff Miller for asking me the questions I should have been asking myself in the field.
A final special thanks to instructor and fellow GNPA-er Tom Vadnais. Mad photography skills aside, he’s the one who started all this for me by bringing Will to Atlanta for that fateful seminar…
And sorry fellas, you’re not done with me yet…I’m a junkie after all. See you this October!
And now for your moment of green…
My favorite shot of the Spring workshop, a macro shot of a yellow trillium bloom in the rain.
July 26, 2012
Postcards from Real Life: The Art of Exploration
So I’ve been pondering the inner whys and what-fors of this lifestyle I find myself in. I like to think of life in general as an art with countless outlets for self-expression. There is also an art to exploring the world around us with countless ways and places to discover.
In this case, I discovered this amazing fern…at the zoo. I’m always tickled by the visitors so intent on the fauna, that they miss the remarkable flora that can be found at zoos. Just like the exotic animals we will not see in our backyards or local forests, zoos contain exotic plants as well. While this colorful character may not be exotic, it’s certainly remarkable. Crowds passed by in preference of kangaroos…who weren’t even doing anything remarkable at the time. Go fig.
The point is, be open to noticing more than just the “main event” and you’ll feel like you’ve really been there. I remember that day and this fern vividly, even though it was over three years ago and we’ve been to this zoo more times than I can count. When you’re open to all the possibilities of a place, familiarity doesn’t breed boredom. Go ahead and immerse yourself in all of the sights, sounds, and smells…that’s where discovery happens.
Unexpected wonder at the zoo (c. 2009)
As I head out to the Smoky Mountains for the next two weeks, I have my mental reminder in place to be cognizant of all aspects of the park…not just the mountains. (Which are awesome too of course.)
So I leave you with this:
A discovery is said to be an accident meeting a prepared mind. – Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

July 13, 2012
Real Life Connections: The Tremont Workshop Junkies
This addition to Real Life Connections is actually a collection of people. But, as a collective, they’ve greatly impacted yours truly and totally qualify for inclusion. And yes, it has been a long time since I’ve inducted anyone so why not go big and just add a bunch at once right?
What’s the deal?
Well, I’m still absorbing the awesome of the Spring Photography Workshop at Tremont that I snuck off to a couple of weeks ago. Since that particular post is really just not writing itself at the moment, I thought I’d start with a separate, quick shout out to the people who really made this workshop amazing for me.
But first, what are Tremont Junkies?
There are the folks who attend a fall or spring workshop from time-to-time, then there are the junkies…the ones who attend a lot. Now, I’ve only attended the last two photography workshops but since I’m now visiting Tremont on a semi-regular basis to complete the Naturalist Certification as well, I need to fess up that I am indeed a Tremont junkie too. The true sign though is that I don’t intend to miss any future workshops and now arrange my rather considerable travel plans around them.
My fellow Tremont Junkies. On a side note…am I really that short? Had no idea.
The inductees…
So without further delay, here are some of the characters who will always keep me coming back to Tremont for more…(going left to right) Pat Kennedy (AKA The Butterfly Whisperer), Bill Lea (Spring Workshop Head Honcho), Sue Milinkovich, Dan Thompson, and Steve Zigler.
Without going all sappy on you, how about I just say that, first of all, these guys just make the workshop fun. They have great energy that feeds the atmosphere. Second, they’re all enormously talented. Just being able to watch them work and create is fun and educational from a photography standpoint, but for me they also embody the fuzzier traits I’d like to emulate in terms of perseverance and vision. The Junkies’ willingness to share and collaborate is much appreciated.
Granted, these are not the only people who filled out the experience for me. All the participants were wonderful, it’s just that these are the ones I spent the most time with. I do want to give a tip-o-the-hat to the not-pictured instructors though…Tom Vadnais, Todd Moore, and Jeff Miller. I’ll have to induct them next time around…
The take-away…
The real point in sharing these people with you is that you just never know when and where you’ll meet some one who influences you in some way. If you stop to take notice, there’s mad talent all around you. Soak it up!
Anyway, obviously I’m quite inspired by these people and I thought they deserved the Val version of a thank you note. And of course, if you come to a workshop, you’ll get to bask in their awesome too. I promise I’ll share them with you.
And now for your moment of green…
Ok, so sometimes in spite of surrounded by inspiration I can’t get out of my little macro world. It’s cozy here.

May 3, 2012
Autumn Brilliance at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
So what seems like an eternity ago but what was really only a few months, I got a little uber-mommy time. That’s right, I got to spend a glorious long weekend at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont for the Autumn Brilliance Photography workshop. With the boys shipped off to Gma for safe keeping, I got four days away sans all demands of homeschooling and domestic duties to soak up the awesome that is Will Clay and the Smoky Mountains.
Will’s first test for us…sunrise on Foothills Parkway
First, The Workshop…
As you know, I was already a fan of Will and his work. He’s a rare combination of great talent, teaching ability, personality, and passion. After meeting him in Atlanta for a seminar, I knew it would be worth the time and energy to venture off to Tremont for his workshop. And while Will was the reason I ventured to Tremont for the first time, it turns out he had way more up his considerable sleeve than I imagined, and that was his assemblage of additional instructors.
Watching the sun rise over mountains and through trees is all kinds of granola goodness.
Not only is Will all sorts of groovy, he handed to floor over to some other wonderful photographers to help us photographer wannabes become more “be” than “wanna.” So I have to give a shout out to his other instructors…Tom Vadnais, Steve Zigler, Ken Thompson, and Todd Moore. It’s safe to say I learned a lot from each of them and they were the chocolate sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, and cherry on top of the Will Clay sundae. And while I realize that’s probably a really odd metaphor for photographers, you get the idea.
At any rate, I won’t go photo-geek on you with all the minutia of the workshop, but I will say that it was very worthwhile. With visits to Foothills Parkway, Elkmont, and the Middle Prong River there was plenty of opportunity to put into practice all of the expertise they shared with us. They deftly handled all ability levels and we, as students, got to benefit from their extensive knowledge of the area. I thoroughly appreciated that Will kept maximizing our shooting opportunities as the top priority even if it meant breakfast in the field. As Will said…”We’re not here to eat.”
Aside from the opportunity to expand my photographic abilities, just having time to hang out in the Smokies with my camera and a bunch of cool, talented people was enough to leave a silly grin on my face for days. Be sure to check it out if you’re looking for a great workshop in a stunning location…
With countless cascades, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the Smokies.
…which brings us to the location.
Tremont is a cozy little retreat that hosts all sorts of events…family weekends, courses, school groups, etc. Of course, I was so wrapped up in shooting the natural landscapes that I didn’t get any shots of the facilities themselves for you. Never fear, I’ll be sure to grab some when I’m there next month, but more on that later.
At any rate, the accommodations are simple and in keeping with the natural setting nestled on the Tennessee side of the Smokies. Obviously this isn’t a luxury resort but that’s ok. It’s what it needs to be and you know I’m not one for frills anyway so this is right up my alley. Having said that, as much as I like the simple life, I will say the that dorm rooms are not for the light sleeper…ahem, that would be me. (And I now know why many of the participants hoteled it in town!) In spite of the limited sleep, I still had a great time exploring Tremont and will be a repeat visitor.
The Middle Prong River has infinite details to capture.
Oh so full calendar…
…but in a good way. So yes, I will be returning for the Spring Photography Workshop…and probably the autumn workshop again in October. And because I can’t seem to get enough, I’ll be pursuing the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification in addition to honing my photography skills. So I’ll certainly be posting lots of Tremont fodder this year and next time I’ll be sure to take a few more shots of the place itself.
In the meantime, here are some of the shots I managed during the workshop, plus a few more over on my Flickr page for Tremont. Hopefully you’ll get a feel for the beauty of the Smokies if you’ve never had the opportunity to visit. Trust me, there’s a reason it’s the most visited park in the U.S.
The Smokies are an idyllic place to get lost along dreamy streambanks.
Foothills Parkway is a popular destination…and for good reason..
A study of reflection and shade.
And now for your moment of green…
One of Will’s assignments…our zen word. This is my contribution to Intimacy.

January 26, 2012