Archive for the ‘landscape’ Tag
Bamboo Forest
Behind the hotel I was staying in was a bamboo forest lining the banks of a small river. When I first discovered it, the hotel staff insisted I not venture any closer as the high winds were making it dangerous. Not to be deterred, I decided to return to the spot later in the afternoon with tripod and camera in tow. I took a number of photos and was cautious of branches and whole trees falling on my head.
Later in my visit I discovered snakes and tarantulas love bamboo. I’m not sure how true that is, but there were times I was knee-deep in branches and foliage. I certainly felt like I was going to be escorted off the property at any moment, so my senses were heightened. Despite the repeating patterns of the trees, the colors were somewhat dull and muted. This turned out to be the best of the bunch.
Rolling Farmers Fields
I was actually a bit surprised at the rolling fields along the mountainside. Many mountains are covered in fields of coffee plants and they make a distinct mark on the landscape. Standing just beneath the clouds, I enjoyed partly cloudy skies that created a nice contrast of light and shadow on the land.
Tree Frog
I managed to capture this little green guy on a leaf in a waterfall park and wildlife refuge. Unfortunately, I got the distinct impression the frogs had enough of tourists and most of them seemed to be hidden from me. Honestly, I can’t say I blame them.
Dying To Get In
Finally, I managed to tour a local cemetery, where the crypts were as ornate and luxurious of any I have seen. It was apparent that the bigger, more ostentatious the crypt, the higher the status of the resting soul. The weather was perfect as was the light which drew out the character of the many structures that symbolized the status and final resting place of the elite of Costa Rica.
Sleeping Angel
Dinner For Three
I finally decided to stay for a couple of personal days in Costa Rica on my last business trip there. This time of year is beautiful there and I was treated to the best weather I could have hoped for. It’s been a while since I posted to my blog and I honestly missed the writing. As I was flying home from this trip, it occurred to me that while my blog really is all about my photography, it could be viewed as a travel blog of sorts. That is not my primary intention, but I will concede that the discovery and sharing of the places I have been to and seen is in many ways a travel log of sorts, the modern age journal.
Sunday Mass
On Friday at noon I was fortunate enough to be allowed to photograph the interior of the cathedral in San Jose. Mass was taking place so I limited my position to the back of the church. I love how HDR photography brings out the life in the architecture of older churches. They tend to be poorly lit and sometimes drab.
Volcan Irazu
My weekend included a number of destinations I had not previously visited in Costa Rica. A colleague was very kind to show me the sights and sounds of the country. I experienced my first volcano on Saturday morning of the weekend trip. It was a dormant volcano, but was exciting for me to see nonetheless.
The countryside of Costa Rica is spectacular. It is green, lush, full of life and color. Conversation at dinner refered to my exuberance as an “oxygen high”. That must be why the people of Costa Rica are so happy.
Morning Rays
It seemed everywhere I turned another breathtaking vista treated my senses.
Summer Solace
On this trip I chose to carry all my photography gear, including my tripod. I was conflicted about carrying the extra weight, but I am so glad I did. If I am committed to the craft I have to be willing to bring my tools of the trade. I think it paid off. When I take an excursion like this, I tend to set very low expectations for myself photographically. I tell myself if I get one great picture, it was worthwhile. It is like my golf game; I just need one great shot among a hundred or so to keep me coming back for more.
Withered with Age
Gentle Water Flowing
This was one of three waterfalls in a waterfall park I visited. It was located at a place a called Peace Lodge in Lapaz. The light was bright and I soon realized that I needed a neutral density filter on my lens to darken the light and further slow the shutter to capture the flowing water. I am pleased with the results and the lush green forest becomes a subject all its own.
Paul Coffin Photography 