January 26, 2015
Getting to Mt St Helens by itself is fun. The Highway 504 enroute is just perfect – be it bicycle, motorcycle or a casual car drive. It has some sweeping turns and plenty of turn offs at viewpoints to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Pacific North West. The drive up takes you to the Johnston Ridge Observatory. A little rustic building filled with history and even more adored with a picture perfect view of the Mt. St. Helens.
The volcanic eruption of the 1980 created a huge crater, losing almost 14% of its elevation and resulting in the flattened top. The debris spurred around for ~250 miles, impacting the entire ecosystem. Even today, after decades, one could still witness the ashes on some part of the wilderness trees. Each element around – the landscape, the deteriorating but majestic trees, the mountain, the fissures of lava – each remind us of the power of nature.
The sun actually sets behind you as you enjoy the mountain view. But this particular evening the light was just magical and it was fire across the sky. Given the vicinity to the visitor center and the concrete paved walkway, it lends itself well for night photography, especially if ur worried to hike up in the dark. It is amazing to view the milky way above St. Helens. Additionally the expansive view also opens up possibilities for some creative panoramas too :)
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 13 mm : f22.0 : 20 sec 
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Sunset by Mt. St. Helens
Mt. St Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington, USA |
46.191200
-122.194400
Posted in LandScape, photography, usa, Washinton |
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October 20, 2014
Life is truly a reflection of what we allow ourselves to See & Be !
Wisconsin Dells might be know as the Waterpark Capitol of the World, but it also very close to several state parks, know for its fall colors. Mirror Lake State Park is only a few miles from Devil’s Lake State Park and is often thought of as the “Overflow” park for campers who can’t fit in at Devil’s Lake. However, just visit once and you would realize that Mirror Lake State Park has a special beauty of it’s own. Though this is closest to Wisconsin Dells, it feels so far away from civilization.
At the heart of the Mirror Lake State Park is a beautiful lake … It is a great place to swim and paddle in. The evening was chill and the water was still. I just decided to stay out and enjoy the reflection, with just occasional birds accompanying me. The twilight from setting sun, the fall colors and the reflections were just complimenting each other. It turned out to be an amazing evening ! Now this is worth calling a Mirror Lake, right ;-)
P.S : The entire dynamic range was possible with 7 exposure, thanks to Magic Lantern !
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 13 mm : f13.0 : 30 sec 
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Mirror Lake State Park
Baraboo, Wisconsin, USA |
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July 13, 2014
We all choose different journeys to take in life. The choices we make and the experiences of the journey enriches us. But it is never about the destination, it never has been.
Are you trying to convince yourself that life will be better after you complete some thing … or that doing xyz will make you happy or give you a purpose ? Stop worrying, Start living – Happiness is in the now … in this moment … doing what you are doing without worrying !
Encourage others on their journey, and cherish yours. How are you enjoying your current journey !
The journey is what brings us happiness, not the destination. – Dan Milman
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 200 : 22 mm : f4.5 : 1/30 sec 
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Countryside Sunset
Enroute Green Riven, Illinois, USA |
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June 20, 2014
An architecture so white, so magnificent, so delicate and so close to Chicago, it has to be the Baha’i temple.
The Baha’i Temple, Chicago is one of only seven Baha’i temples in the world. It is actually the only one in all of North America. The place is enormous and has 9 almost identical entrances symbolizing the 9 major religions of the world and the fact that all are welcome to worship together at the temple. It’s really a pretty fascinating place surrounded by sprawling grounds with manicured symmetrical gardens and fountains.
If you had visited the place, you know that the entire temple is pure white. But the twilight, bought in the golden shade and accentuated the intricate work on the walls. I also loved how the lilies complimented the setting sun :)
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 10 mm : f5.6 : 6 sec 
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Baha’I Temple of Worship
Wilmette, Illinois, USA |
Posted in photography |
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June 1, 2014
Nothing beats a beautiful spring day like a trip to the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Just 30 mins away from downtown – nestled in Mary McDonalds woods – this well kept & curated garden, provides a deserved break to the Urban feel of Chicago. Are u tired of the concrete jungles, wanna breathe some fresh air – not tainted by pollution – just head down to Chicago Botanic Garden. It definitely is a worthwhile place to get ur Zen back :)
And did I say this is a lovely place to enjoy a sunset too …
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 10 mm : f22 : 6 sec 
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Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe, Illinois, USA |
Posted in photography |
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February 11, 2014
Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky. ― Rabindranath Tagore
Sunsets are amazing – for there is no two alike. It could either burst into a million colors or turn out to be more subtle – the surprise element, as with life, makes it even more enjoyable. This shot was from a drive to Green river state wildlife area in Illinois. We were headed down there to shoot some stars for the night. As we were driving down the Highway 30, the sky was just lit up with the twilight colors. I just could not help but pull over and run across to capture the scene :)
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 14 mm : f4.5 : 1/45 sec 
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Highway 30, Green River Wildlife Area
Harmon, Illinois, USA |
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January 26, 2014
You know that Haystack rock at Cannon Beach is one of my favorite for sunset. Today’s shot is a not so very popular view of the same. Nevertheless it is always breathtaking. Haystack Rock at Twilight shot from Ecola State Park. How do u like it :)
Canon 7D : Tamron 18-270 mm : ISO 100 : 39 mm : f6.7 : 30 sec 
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Ecola State Park
Astoria, Oregon, USA |
Posted in photography |
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January 20, 2014
There’s almost nothing more relaxing than the sound of the ocean as the sun sets over the water.
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 17 mm : f4.0 : 1/125 sec 
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Devils Punch Bowl State Park
Otter Rock, Oregon, USA |
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December 5, 2013
During this past ID4, after lot of planning zeroed down to shooting the fireworks at St Louis arch. It definitely did not disappoint. But as the head would have it, when driving 5 hours with the available long weekend, I was also looking to see what else could be packed up into the trip. Though it was a state (MO) I was visiting for the first time – not many places were appealing due to the dry weather. I did like the Cathedral and the Missouri Botanical Garden – but was longing for some landscape to get a chance to capture the summer sun.
The plan was fluid as the weather was kind of bleak, with overcast skies. Late Sunday afternoon after a good lunch – the potential forecast looked better – if we were to head 2 hours down south. But that also meant driving for 7 hours to reach back home, if we headed for that sunset. After a short debate decided to hit it straight to the Garden of Gods @ Shawnee National Forest. We reached the trail, just in time – and as if to take some pity on us for the long drive – the clouds parted to create this beautiful view. It lasted for – may be less than 10 minutes – but was well worth it :)
Even her goodbyes are ever so beautiful …
Is it because – she would be back again tomorrow ?!?!?!
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 10 mm : f22 : 3 sec
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Garden of Gods, Shawnee National Forest
Herod, Illinois, USA |
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November 28, 2013
If you accept all moments with deep gratitude, nothing can go wrong :)
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Thank you so much for all of the support and encouragement – over here at the blog and also on the social channels. I’m so glad that you all enjoy my work. Thank you :) Here is a water color work that I made today. This is based on a shot from a visit to Crater Lake last year. Check out this photograph if u would like to see how dynamic that sunset really was :)
Hope ur having a fun time during this holidays with ur family and friends !!!
Watercolor on Paper
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Victor View View point, Crater Lake
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, USA |
Posted in Painting |
2 Comments »
September 24, 2013
Know the diff between Science and science fiction : Science needs to sound and feel real to be accepted.
In the same lines : Photos need to feel and look real to some extent. But the painting is not restricted by these views.
I had been fascinated with painting from young age. I am grateful to have had my chances to play around with the same during my childhood. Growing up, I lost touch with most of these, dabbling only occasionally. There is something magical about working with art that is physical like drawing, painting, pottery or crafts. Something is missing with working on the computer as compared to the old school hand work. But given the constrains especially on time, and to kindle some of those experiences decided to take up digital equivalent, rather than missing out completely.
Have been working on the digital watercolor over the last year, trying out different techniques to get the feel right. It is no way complete and am trying out different things & refining the process, but do love the options it opens up ! It is different, personal and all the more fun. Hoping to create more art of these kind in future.
This week post is watercolor on paper based on the shot from the same location that I had posted earlier. The clouds and the light was changing so rapidly. It was literally a splash of colors. That is the mood I had wanted to share. How do u like it … Looking forward to your comments and feedback :)
Watercolor on Paper
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Busse Woods Lake
Elk Grove, Illinois, USA |
Posted in Painting |
6 Comments »
September 8, 2013
There is a sunrise and a sunset every single day, and they’re absolutely free. Don’t miss so many of them. – Jo Walton
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 10 mm : f22 : 0.5 sec
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Busse Woods Lake
Elk Grove, Illinois, USA |
Posted in photography |
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July 3, 2013
The Rim Drive – a 33 miles gorgeous and scenic highway circumventing the crater lake – make it an ideal place for enjoying both sun rise or sun set (moon rise and moon set too !). There are tons of pull-outs to get off the road and see the lake. Be it the view points right on the road or the hikes out or the off road trails the views are equally amazing.
This particular view is one of my favorite – so open and expansive. You can see the Phantom Island on the left , Wizard island towards center. The foreground with minimal vegetation and brittle soil, highlights the volcanic past. To add to all this, the sun decided to stage a grand drama that evening :)
‘Bowl of Fire’ – an attempt at capturing that moment, that grandeur – to share with you !!!
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : ISO 100 : 11 mm : f11 : 30 sec
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Cloud Cap Point
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, USA |
Posted in photography |
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April 15, 2013
Indiana dunes State Park being located on the eastern side of Lake Michigan, makes it an ideal spot for enjoying a sunset. It is just a little more than an hour drive from Chicago, but does take you far away from the urban madness. This spot definitely has potential for some star photography and I was scouting the location for a new moon night shoot. Incidentally – as were wrapping up, the crescent moon started to dot the horizon, unfolding this tranquil scene – the setting sun added the colors, the haze over the moon made it dreamy and the silhouette was just right to complete the scene. How do u like it !!!
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : 3 stop ND Filter : ISO 100 : 13 mm : f16 : 30 sec
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Indiana Dunes State Park
Chesterton, Indiana, USA |
Posted in photography |
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April 2, 2013
I can still remember that particular evening at Hampi. The air was crisp, the breeze was so pleasant and the distant sunset was quiet dramatic. Mahanavami Dibba – located within the fortified area was probably the seat of power of the fallen empire. The views from here were grandeur and King Krishnadevaraya would have enjoyed similar views of sunset during his days :)
This is a pseudo digital oil painting based on the sunset from that particular evening. I am still refining on my workflow and painting process. How do you like the same ?!!!
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Sunset @ Mahanavami Dibba
Hampi, Karnataka, India |
Posted in Painting, photography |
2 Comments »
March 16, 2013
Sometimes,
It is not wondering about big things
But understanding small things
that helps you grow …
Canon 7D : Canon 10-22 mm : 3 stop ND Filter : ISO 100 : 10 mm : f22 : 1/6 sec
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Copper Mountain Nature Trail
Beaverton, Oregon, USA |
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March 9, 2013
With a heavy heart, contemplation, reflection and open mind – I bid good bye to the beautiful Oregon, that pretty much had become my second home. I will continue to share the beauty of Pacific NW (Still have gigs of shots to process from the previous years :)) and looking forward to that. Open to next opportunities, heading out to urban city of Chicago – exited to explore what life has in store !!!
This particular shot is from Fern hill wetlands, which easily became my favorite spot for sunset and bird watching. Though just 20 odd miles from Portland, it gives a typical countryside feel far away from the frenzy city life !!!
Camera : Canon 7D
Lens : Tamron 18-270 mm
Filter : 3 stop ND Filter
ISO 100 : 27 mm : f19 : 30 sec
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FernHill Wetlands
Forest Grove, Oregon, USA |
Posted in photography |
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February 27, 2013
One of the reason I love the Pacific Northwest is for moments like these. The coast is so long and varied, that you can find your own personal spot(s). I call is personal, cause in those few places I instantly feel connected – kind of a bridge between thrust urban and the subtle but all encompassing nature. The below is one such lovely secluded spot in the scenic highway 101 . You just drive up, get out and get lost – in the beauty of the ocean, as the sun bids adieu for the day over the horizon.
Camera : Canon 7D
Lens : Canon 10-22 mm
Filter : None
ISO 100 : 10 mm : f8 : 1/350 sec
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Secret Spot @ Pacific Coast
Hwy 101, Oregon, USA |
Posted in photography |
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January 31, 2013
It has been almost a month of hiatus from the blog. One of the longest in the past three years. It was one of those phases where there was just too much thoughts around life directions, purpose, goals and where it is heading towards. Working towards the goal is starting to seem much easier than identifying the right one !
It was kind of going into a rut, taking most of my focus and energy. So this is for myself – Think Less, Live More :) And some wishing to rebound and get in the groove of sharing my moments on a weekly basis going forward. U have a great day and lovely weekend ahead !!!
Camera : Canon 7D
Lens : Canon 10-22 mm
Filter : Hitech Pro ND 10 Stop
ISO 100 : 22 mm : f16 : 53 sec
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Wizard Hat, Face Rock State Park
Bandon, Oregon, USA |
Posted in photography |
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January 6, 2013
Eve of the new year – It was a lovely drive back from Bandon to Portland – right along the Pacific coast 101. When it was not raining , it was out right overcast and or misty, giving a dreamy feel to the drive. We never thought there would be any chance of enjoying a sunset on such a day. But as always, things are not what they seem … Just around 4 PM, the entire mood started to change. The clouds started to roll over & break out – to create a euphoria of colors. As the sun set here, behind the pacific northwest, it was indeed kicking off the new year in the other side of the world – sounds funny right :) I present to you the last rays of 2012 !
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Seal Rock State Park
Seal Rock, Oregon, USA |
Posted in LandScape, Oregon, photography, SeaScape, usa |
3 Comments »
Like the Ocean 