Palmetto ADV Rally

This weekend I had the pleasure of participating in the 3rd annual Palmetto ADV Rally! It was so fun re-connecting with old riding buddies, and meeting new ones. Our YouTube channel of @MotoPhotoAdventures was well represented with Jason, Steve, and I all being there together. We led a couple of the group rides to showcase how beautiful the lowcountry is, stayed up ’till all hours solving the world’s problems around the campfire with our fellow riders, and supporting our awesome sponsors like Moto Camp Nerd, SC Moto Lawyer Rick Stewart, and ADV Gourmet. Plus we were able to reconnect with our fellow YouTubers, Greg Simpson at The Bearded Grump and Frank Cone at One Old Man Riding! What a great weekend…we’re already looking forward to the 2025 PAR!!!

Exploring Guatemala

Nestled in the heart of Central America lies Guatemala, a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Recently, I was hired to photograph an international conference in Guatemala City. So I decided to fly down a few days early to explore this country’s diverse tapestry of experiences.

My adventure began in Guatemala City, the bustling capital that serves as the country’s cultural and economic epicenter. Here, the streets pulsate with energy, and the air is infused with the aromas of traditional Guatemalan cuisine. From the vibrant Mercado Central to the historic Plaza Mayor, every corner tells a story of resilience and heritage.

Leaving the urban bustle behind, I hired a driver and ventured to Antigua, a colonial gem nestled amidst towering volcanoes. Stepping into Antigua feels like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets, pastel-hued facades, and meticulously preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Every corner of Antigua presents a new photographic opportunity, from the iconic Arco de Santa Catalina to the majestic ruins of churches dating back centuries.

My journey through Guatemala would not have been complete without a visit to Finca El Pilar Nature Preserve, a pristine mountain wilderness teeming with biodiversity. With steep trails winding through the jungle, this protected area is a sanctuary for countless species of flora and fauna. It was a humbling experience to witness nature in its purest form, a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding our planet’s precious ecosystems.

As my exploration of Guatemala came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the myriad experiences that had woven themselves into my memory banks. From the bustling streets of Guatemala City to the timeless beauty of Antigua and the untamed wilderness of El Pilar, each moment captured through my lens serves as a testament to the richness and diversity of this remarkable country. Guatemala has left an indelible mark on my soul, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share its story with the world through my photographs.

Cedar Waxwings at Magnolia Plantation

I have never photographed cedar waxwings. So when I was out shooting with my friend David Archer and we spotted a flock, I was so excited!

David had lent me his Nikkor 800mm PF lens to play with, which I was using on my Nikon Z9. For some of the shots, I also attached the Nikkor Z TC1.4x converter, making it a 1250mm effective focal length! I was shooting at ISO 1600, 1/2000, f6.3. With the converter on, that jumped to 1/1000 at f9.

It was so much fun watching these beautiful birds swoop in and out, gobbling up berries as fast as I could fire the shutter! Here are a few of my favorites…

Global Ethanol Summit at the National Air and Space Museum

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

A fabulous Wrap Party was held at the National Air and Space Museum. Attendees had freedom to roam and explore, with guides explaining the history and significance of various aircraft around the facility. Cocktails were served under the Space Shuttle in the James S. McDonnell Space Hanger. A delicious dinner followed under the shadow of the SR-71 Blackbird. Acrobats and magicians kept everyone entertained. And a fantastic celebration was had by all!

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 3

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

Day 3 of the conference continued the success of the previous two days. But the program was split into two tracks, allowing attendees to select which keynote presentations and discussion panels would fit their interest the best. After the networking luncheon, a historic 4 countries signed letters of intent. Closing remarks were nade bt Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO, U.S. Grains Council. And we also captured more group portraits of various countries, as well as the USGC staff.

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 2

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

Day 2 of the conference included a breakfast buffet, welcome by USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand, keynote presentations, discussion panels, more group portraits of various countries, as well as a nice networking reception.

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 1

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.  The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.  More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries attended the event, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.

Day 1 of the conference included registration, networking, keynote presentations, group portraits of various countries, and a warm Welcome Reception.

USGC Board of Directors Meeting in Calgary – Day 1

I had the distinct honor and great pleasure of photographing the US Grains Council’s 63rd Annual Board of Directors Meeting in Calgary Canada this summer!!!

The majority of the conference took place at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Calgary, in the heart of the thriving downtown.  A nice Welcome Reception at the end of the long day was a great way to wind down and relax.  Here are a few images from Day 1 of this amazing annual meeting…

Liza & Joe’s Destination Wedding in Madison

Joe is Cami’s second cousin. So, when Joe and Liza contacted us to ask if we would photograph their wedding, we were elated! We were excited to be going to Madison for a destination wedding. Cami spent several summers in that area while growing up, visiting her aunt, uncle, and cousins in Port Edwards.

It was a beautiful day for the wedding. We were happy that it took place inside the Goodman Community Center where Liza works, as it was a 90 degree day! The guys started getting ready on the top floor, while the ladies were in a room on the main floor. Joe looked very handsome in his suit. Liza looked stunning, with her amazing daughter, Lily helping with makeup. Liza’s wedding gown was absolutely elegant! After everyone was dressed to the nines, Liza & Joe had their first glance on a beautiful lawn across from the wedding venue…followed by family and wedding party photos.

The wedding was led by Joe’s mother, Susan, and included a touching hand binding ceremony. The flower girl, Emilia, drew lots of smiles as she walked down the aisle, throwing the flower petals up behind her back. After the ceremony, we captured some fun photos of Joe & Liza, their first shots as a married couple, while everyone else headed to the Brassworks Building for the cocktail hour and reception.

A warm welcome by Joe’s dad, Don, and a delicious meal awaited everyone at the reception. Lively chatter and fun festivities carried on throughout the night. Cake cutting, and touching toasts also ensued. Eventually, James, with the Juke Box Bandstand started jamming and the party kicked into high gear! Everyone was dancing and singing and having a BLAST!!! But finally it was time to bid Eliza & Joe a fond farewell.

Many thanks to all of the fine folks from the Goodman Community Center for all of their help in making the wedding a huge success. Also, a huge shout out to all the vendors who made this special day possible.

CONGRATULATIONS Liza & Joe!!! It was an absolute honor to capture all the beautiful memories of this special day for you. We wish you all the best as you begin this new journey together.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

We had an amazing time last weekent, photographing a beautiful destination wedding in Madison, Wisconsin. Since our flight home wasn’t until late the following afternoon, Cami Smith and I spent the morning enjoying the peaceful Olbrich Botanical Gardens before leaving town. What a delight!!!

* Nikon Z9, Nikkor Z 70-200 f2.8, Nikkor Z TC1.4, Nikon Z30, Nikkor Z 105 f2.8 Micro, Sony XQD cards

National Ethanol Conference – Orlando, Florida

Ready. Set. Go!

The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) is the most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry. Industry leaders from across the United States and countries from all over the world are drawn to this annual event. Since 1996, the Renewable Fuels Association’s NEC has been recognized as the most important ethanol conference to attend for the latest, most timely information on marketing, legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry.

It was an absolute pleasure to photograph this year’s conference at the incredible Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida. With keynote presentations from the likes of Medal of Honor Recipient Sal Giunta, Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa, and Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association…it was a remarkable experience to be a part of.

Many thanks to Mary Giglio and Ken Colombini for bringing me on board! It truly was an honor working with the amazing team at RFA!!!

Ajijic Mexico

Cami and I took a break and spent a week exploring the state of Jalisco, Mexico! We stayed in the popular town of Ajijic on Lake Chapala, which is the largest fresh-water lake in Mexico. Besides exploring this attractive town, shopping at the farmers market, and strolling along the lakeside Malecon…we did a number of day-trips to nearby towns like Mazamitla and Tequila. However, one of the highlights for me, was visiting the town of Petatan, where thousands of white pelicans flock during the winter!