I never tire of taking pictures of flowers, a true gift of nature.

Disney offers wonderful photographic opportunities.

While visiting Disneyland and having a fantastic time with family, I was sure to take some time just for me and my camera. Of course I took several typical Disney pictures showing the magic and fun times had by all of us. However, for me some of the best attractions are the wonderful structures built as backdrops. These five shots are, photographically, examples of much of what I find fascinating about the park.

Portland Under Clouds

 Portland is a grand city, having much character, being more than buildings, abounding with people following their own drummer.

Your All My Slaves

As I was parked in a location to take some pictures of a waterfall, I looked over the edge of the road embankment and saw this wall of an old building foundation covered in graffiti.

Looking at and taking care of flowers speaks to the soul.

There is little in this world having the natural beauty of a flower, being no exception is this azalea in my garden. 

Bridges of Portland

After several angles taken of this bridge I settled on this closeup of the lift structure.

While taking pictures of some of Portland's bridges, this train entered my frame, quickly focusing, carefully composing, shooting, triumphant.  Converted to B&W in Photoshop.

I have long liked the bridges of Portland. I hope to get some good and interesting shots of most of them.

Having procrastinated for about three years, I realized that the foliage was soon going to take away my opportunity to get a picture of this old Highway 30 bridge. It is at the intersection of Cornelius Pass Rd and Hwy 30. The growth of ivy and the weeping willow are perfect for the feel of the shot I was after.

As I drove to work each day I watched the progress of this new light rail bridge being built. On this particular morning, I chose to be late for work, so I could get this shot.

St. Johns Bridge, Oregon

The St. John's bridge is a beautiful Oregon land mark, and I have long wanted to photograph it. Over this past year I have created a growing file of pictues.. This one, in Black & White is one of my favorites.

Oregon is often wet but even then, there is so much beauty to be found.

Ghosts of Yesteryear

I had wanted to photograph the old Highway 30 bridge and to my surprise my camera picked up the ghosts of the bridges glory days. At least, that's my story.

Beauty at the side of the house.

I was coming down with a nasty cold and didn't feel much like doing anything, especially going outside. Teri came in the house and suggested that I go take some pictures of the rohododendrons at the side of the house. Knowing that blossoms don't always wait around for me to feel like getting out to take pictures, I decided to gather my equipment and see what I could do. This is the favorite of the shots I got that day. As it turned out, it was the only highlight of the week. I spent the rest of it in bed feeling very poorly.  ISO 500, f4.5, 1/60th, 57 mm  *** Updated note:  Looking at this shot today, I see a flat uninteresting shot.  I guess shooting while sick is not such a good idea. 

The Good Mother

We have enjoyed watching a pair of Robins build a very sturdy nest on a drain pipe by the deck outside the dining room of our home. It was fascinating to watch as they kept the eggs warm while sitting almost constantly day and night. 

Last year a pair or Robins attempted to build a nest in this same location, but it seemed that they were novices and just couldn't get it right. We don't know if the birds chose a different location or simply had to forgo giving life to a new generation.

In capturing this shot, I set up my tripod, attached the camera and and 70-400mm lens. With cable release in hand, I sat in a deck chair while I waited for the mother to return with delicious worms. The babies immediately raised their little heads high, begging for the tasty treat. ISO 320, f5.6, 1/60th, 400mm

On their way out.

Flowers are truly one of natures most fascinating creations. Nearing the end of the flowering phase, this specimen showed off with a new beauty. One that I could not leave un-photgraphed. Camera settings - ISO 125, f2.8, 1/250th, 55mm.

By a Hairs Breadth

My wife, Teri, and I went to a high school track meet to watch one of our precious granddaughters participate in some running events. Not wanting to miss out on any opportunities for photography, I made sure I had my camera in hand. The high jump offered some good shots. This one, offered not only a talented jumper, but one with color and style. Camera settings ISO 250, f8, 1/640th, 190mm.

Three Wheelers

Teri and I were staying at the Stephanie Inn, in Cannon Beach, Oregon where we were guests of  Mrs. Martin, who with her husband were founders of the Inn. They were celebrating twenty years in business and we, this year, are celebrating twenty years of marriage. We have been staying at Stephanie Inn at least annually since 1993, the years of their opening.  We were very honored to be amongst the few who were invited to attend the celebration five course dinner. We hope to be enjoying the Oregon Coast in the Inn for twenty years to come.  

One of the things I love about Cannon Beach is just how picturesque it is. On almost every visit I have gotten at least one picture that was acceptable.  As I walked along the beach I saw three, three wheeler bikes sitting near haystack rock. I was pleased that by the time I got into position to take the picture that no one had moved them. For me, this picture offers a glimpse into the essence of the beach. 

True Love

While walking the beaches, I scan for interesting sand graffiti. There are a few, like this one, that are worthy of being called art. This shot expresses my feelings for my wife, the most important person in my life. 

I have tried to create the graffiti myself and then take a picture but it feels like that is cheating, so any pictures I post will be images and words scratched in the sand by strangers. 

Blossoms

This is an amazing blossom on a tree in our yard. As of this moment I don't know the name of the tree. If a reader knows, please feel free to post it's name. 

Cherry Blossom

Last summer I had planned on removing a cherry tree that just didn't seem to fit the landscape of my yard. With other duties and yard work, that task was left undone as winter chased me into the house. The unintended consequence of my procrastination was the opportunity to get this photo as spring claimed it's due. 

Flowers of spring

This shot was described by a friend as, blossoming, yet shy young love.

Columbia River from Crown Point, Oregon

The Columbia River George is, I believe, one of the most beautiful places in the world. Winding along the old highway past waterfalls, mossy stone guard rails, grand views at slow speeds one can't help but marvel at God's beautiful creation. This shot was taken from Crown Point in winter. 

Buds, out of the blue

Very early in spring, before I normally notice any new plant growth, I was looking for an interesting shot. As I walked past a small tree, I noticed this unusual growth. I gave myself the challenge of getting a shot that would bring interest for a viewer.  

Monterey Bay Aquarium

We were visiting Richard Stevens, my step son (Teri's son) in Monterey, California where he is studying Persian Farsi for the Army. We enjoyed our visit with the and went to the aquarium where I was excited to be able to capture these shots. 

Sea Gull in Monterey Bay

While visiting Monterey Bay we visited Fisherman's Wharf where I attempted to make a nice shot of this scene. Not sure if I succeeded. 

Arches of St. John's Bridge

St. John's bridge is a beautiful landmark along Highway 30. I have enjoyed pictures taken by various photographers dating back many years. I have wanted to be able to capture some images that might bring the emotion I get when looking at other's art. The journey continues. 

Tidewater under St. John's Bridge

As I drove along Highway 30, I noticed that the weather had a surreal feel to it. I crossed St. Johns bridge and found a vantage point where I could get the angle of the bridge I wanted. Normally I would not choose a spot where tall posts are in the foreground, but when the tug entered the scene, it all came together for the composition.  

The Frog and the Fly

In looking through some shots that I had discarded as not worthy of display, I re-discouvered this shot I had taken in a marsh near Ecola State Park on the Oregon coast.  

Church of the Mist

Having driven by this church several times, I hoped to be able to get a shot that would capture the feeling I had when looking at it. In this shot, I succeeded.  Any angles I chose that did not include the trees in the foreground just made it look too stark and uninteresting. 

Stream in Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

This scene drew me to it even though spring had not yet brought forth the blanket of green. The back lighting in the trees along with the light playing on the water offered an image full of life. 

Crown Point, Oregon

Over years I have taken a few pictures of this landmark building at Crown Point along the Columbia River Gorge. I was rewarded on this day with the dark clouds competing with a small portion of blue and white. There was just enough light hitting the building to let it stand out from the darker background. It was closed for renovation so there were few people and cars to distract. 

Sauvi Island Bridge

How does one take an interesting picture of a boring bridge? I wanted to get a nice shot of the Sauvi Island Bridge. In this case it was achieved by relegating it to being only a minor player in the shot. 

From Sauvi Island

One autumn morning while I was on my way to work, the light looked very promising for a shot of fall colors along the Willamette River slough. I crossed Sauvi Island bridge to find not only good light but very calm water, offering a great reflection.  

Waiting for spring.

One foggy and frosty morning I wondered if I might take advantage of the cold weather. This scene was presented along Evergreen Parkway in Hillsboro, Oregon.  As it turned out we had about a week of this weather so I had fun going out on several days.

B & W of farmhouse under frosted trees.

Taking advantage of crisp frosty morning with high humidity I went searching along icy roads for interesting scenes to capture.  I was pleased to find this cozy little house below frozen limbs.

Barbie in the wind.

My son, Don Trenaman was married in Banff Alberta in January 1, 2013.  It was a beautiful and cold day with a temperature of minus ten degrees celsius. We went up on this mountain side for the beautiful backgrounds and were blessed with a nice wind. 

Photographers dream

The photographer in this shot was the hired gun but I had fun taking advantage of his poses as well as doing several of my own. Having been a wedding photographer, this gives the proper perspective of photographer vs bride. It is all about her and he is soon forgotten. 

Frosted edges

I liked the frosty edges of these very green leaves so took several shots looking for a good composition. This, with the framing gave me that, for which I was looking. 

Spectral Cross

An interesting play of light.  A midnight rainbow. 

Multnomah Falls, Oregon - Lower Falls

I was at work one day when I looked out the window and saw that it was an unusually sunny day for fall.  I hopped in my car and drove to Multnomah Falls. This and the next two shots are examples of my reward for the drive. 

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Multnoman Falls - November