Nestled at the west end of Kingston, Ontario, the Lemoine Point Conservation Area spans a vast 136 hectares (340 acres) and offers a refreshing escape from urban life. Bordered by Collins Bay to the north and west, Lake Ontario to the south, and the Kingston/Norman Rogers Airport to the east, this conservation area is a testament to Kingston's commitment to preserving its natural beauty.

A Glimpse into the Past
The history of Lemoine Point dates back to 1784 when Johan Jost Herkimer, a Loyalist, was granted a significant land allotment for his service during the American Revolutionary War. This land, which now forms part of the conservation area, was later known as Herkimer's Nose or Herkimer's Point. In 1836, the land was sold to Captain William Lemoine, after whom the conservation area is named. The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority acquired the land in 1975, with a portion still remaining as farmland under the Coverdale family.

Exploring Lemoine Point
Visitors to Lemoine Point are greeted with diverse terrains, from deciduous woodlands and marshlands to fields and grassy areas. With 2.5 kilometres (1.6 miles) of shoreline, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. The conservation area boasts picnic tables, barbecues, washrooms, and two entrances with parking lots. Most of its trails are flat, with several being wheelchair accessible. As you wander through the trails, you might encounter a variety of wildlife, from birds and insects to mammals like chipmunks, squirrels, and even deer. 

1. Springer Market Square

Springer Market Square, located in the heart of downtown Kingston, is a bustling hub of activity. While it is primarily known for hosting the Kingston Public Market, it's also a site of architectural interest. The square features a beautiful central fountain, which adds a touch of elegance to the surrounding area. However, the true gem of the square is Kingston City Hall.

Kingston City Hall

Kingston City Hall, an imposing limestone structure, dominates the skyline of Springer Market Square. Built between 1839 and 1844, it is a prime example of neoclassical architecture. Designed by architect George Browne, the building's grand façade is adorned with columns and intricate detailing.

Key Features:

• The grand portico with six Corinthian columns creates a majestic entrance.
• The clock tower, rising 40 meters (130 feet) above the ground, provides a prominent focal point.
• The interior boasts a stunning council chamber with decorative plasterwork and a stained glass skylight.

2. St. George's Cathedral

Just a short walk from Springer Market Square stands St. George's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to Kingston's ecclesiastical history.

St. George's Cathedral

Built between 1825 and 1828, St. George's Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in Canada. It exemplifies the Gothic Revival style and showcases intricate stonework. The cathedral's tall spire, flying buttresses, and pointed arches are classic Gothic elements.

Key Features:

• The impressive stained glass windows depict religious scenes and add a vibrant touch to the interior.
• The soaring spire reaches a height of 44 meters (144 feet) and is visible from various parts of the city.
• The cathedral's interior features a stunning wooden roof and a serene atmosphere ideal for reflection and prayer.

3. Confederation Park

Confederation Park, adjacent to City Hall and Springer Market Square, is a lovely green space that provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling square and a picturesque backdrop for the neighboring landmarks.

Confederation Park

This park is known for its lush gardens, beautiful fountains, and serene pathways. It serves as a gathering place for both residents and visitors, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kingston.

Key Features:

• The park's gardens are meticulously maintained, featuring a variety of colorful flowers that bloom throughout the seasons.
• The central fountain is a popular spot for relaxation and photo opportunities.
• The park often hosts events and performances, making it a vibrant cultural space.

Conclusion

Kingston, Ontario, is a city where history and architecture converge seamlessly. Springer Market Square, with Kingston City Hall as its centerpiece, St. George's Cathedral, and Confederation Park all contribute to the city's rich architectural tapestry. These landmarks not only stand as testaments to Kingston's past but also serve as vibrant hubs of activity and culture in the present day. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Kingston's architectural gems are sure to captivate your heart and mind.

Introduction: Nestled on the serene shores of Picton, Ontario, Point Traverse stands as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil waters, and picturesque vistas, this destination offers a haven of inspiration for photographers seeking to capture the essence of nature's beauty. In this blog post, we'll delve into the charm of Point Traverse and explore how to make the most of your photographic journey to this captivating location.

The Allure of Point Traverse: Point Traverse is a peaceful peninsula that extends into the pristine waters of Lake Ontario. Its unique geographical location and untouched landscapes make it a prime destination for photographers in search of natural beauty. From windswept beaches and rugged cliffs to lush forests and vibrant sunsets, Point Traverse offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities that can cater to various creative visions.

Photography Tips and Techniques:

1. Golden Hours: To truly capture the magic of Point Traverse, plan your photography sessions during the golden hours – the soft, warm light that occurs during sunrise and sunset. The gentle lighting during these times can add depth, warmth, and a touch of enchantment to your images.

2. Composition is Key: Utilize compositional techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing to create visually appealing photographs. Experiment with different angles to emphasize the stunning shoreline, the tranquil waters, and the captivating textures of the landscape.

3. Long Exposure Magic: Point Traverse's tranquil waters offer the perfect opportunity for long exposure photography. Using a sturdy tripod, you can create stunning images that feature silky-smooth water surfaces, turning crashing waves into serene mist and enhancing the ethereal quality of the scene.

4. Wide and Macro Shots: Vary your focal lengths to capture both wide vistas and intimate details. Wide-angle shots can showcase the grandeur of the peninsula's landscapes, while macro shots can reveal the intricate textures of shoreline rocks, delicate wildflowers, and more.

5. Capture the Seasons: Point Traverse is a place of beauty throughout the year. From the vibrant colors of autumn leaves to the tranquility of a snow-covered landscape, each season offers its own unique photographic opportunities.

Recommended Gear:

1. Camera and Lenses: A versatile DSLR or mirrorless camera will serve you well, along with a variety of lenses – a wide-angle lens for landscapes, a macro lens for close-ups, and a telephoto lens for capturing distant details.

2. Tripod: A stable tripod is essential for long exposure shots and maintaining sharpness in your images, especially during low-light conditions.

3. Filters: Consider using polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance colors, as well as neutral density (ND) filters to control exposure during long exposure shots.

4. Accessories: Bring spare batteries, memory cards, lens cleaning kits, and any other accessories you may need for an extended photography session.

Preserving the Environment: While capturing the beauty of Point Traverse through your lens, remember to respect the environment. Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace of your visit behind. As photographers, we play a role in preserving the natural wonders we seek to capture.

Conclusion: Photographing Point Traverse in Picton, Ontario, is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and translate its beauty into stunning visual art. With its captivating landscapes, diverse photographic opportunities, and serene atmosphere, this hidden gem is a haven for photographers seeking inspiration and a deeper connection with the natural world. So pack your camera gear, embrace your creative vision, and embark on a journey to capture the breathtaking allure of Point Traverse.

Sunflowers, with their vibrant blooms and cheerful demeanor, are a delightful sight to behold. If you're in the Kingston area, you're in for a treat as you immerse yourself in fields of these golden beauties. But that's not all—there's much more to discover as you embark on scenic road trips that showcase the natural beauty and charm of the Kingston region.

Sunflowers in Full Bloom: A Golden Experience

As the warm breeze of summer sweeps through the Kingston area, sunflower fields come alive with a riot of colors. These iconic blooms not only symbolize sunshine but also embody a spirit of positivity and happiness. From vast commercial sunflower farms to quaint countryside spots, you'll find sunflowers gracing the landscape with their radiant presence.

Top Sunflower Spots:

1. Waddell Apples: This family-owned farm not only offers juicy apples but also boasts sunflower fields that make for fantastic photo opportunities.
2. Fosterholm Farms: A picturesque setting with rows of sunflowers, Fosterholm Farms provides a serene escape into nature.
3. Wolfe Island: A short ferry ride from Kingston, Wolfe Island features scenic landscapes and the chance to stumble upon sunflower fields during your exploration.

Capture Memories on Scenic Road Trips: Kingston and Beyond

While sunflowers steal the spotlight, the Kingston area has much more to offer for the enthusiastic traveler. Embark on road trips that take you through breathtaking vistas, historic sites, and charming towns. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility, these routes have something for everyone.

1. Loyalist Parkway Route: Travel along Highway 33, known as the Loyalist Parkway, which stretches from Kingston to the eastern edge of Prince Edward County. This route offers glimpses of serene waters, rolling farmlands, and quaint villages. Stop by historic sites like Fort Henry and explore the unique boutiques and cafes along the way.

2. Thousand Islands Parkway: Head south from Kingston to embark on a picturesque drive along the Thousand Islands Parkway. Enjoy stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the iconic Thousand Islands. This route is perfect for capturing the beauty of nature, serene waterscapes, and the historic Boldt Castle.

3. Gananoque and Beyond: Explore the charming town of Gananoque, known as the "Gateway to the Thousand Islands." From there, venture into the surrounding countryside to discover hidden gems, such as vineyards, charming B&Bs, and scenic lookout points.

4. Backcountry Adventures: For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, venture into the backcountry. Explore the rugged landscapes of Frontenac Provincial Park, where tranquil lakes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife await your lens.

As you embark on these road trips, remember to take your time to soak in the beauty around you. Capture the essence of the Kingston area through your camera lens and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're strolling through sunflower fields or capturing the grandeur of the Thousand Islands, each moment is an opportunity to connect with nature and explore the wonders of this region.

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a beautiful and unique destination for photographers. The city is filled with colorful buildings, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. However, there is also a certain charm to capturing Reykjavik in black and white photography.

Black and white photography is a classic medium that has been used by photographers for over a century. It has the power to evoke emotions and capture the essence of a place in a way that color photography often cannot. Reykjavik is a city that lends itself well to black and white photography, with its stark contrasts and unique architecture.

One of the best places to capture Reykjavik in black and white is along the harbor. The harbor is a hub of activity with fishing boats coming in and out, and the iconic Harpa concert hall providing a dramatic backdrop. In black and white, the cranes and fishing boats take on a timeless quality, while the Harpa building is transformed into a striking monochrome structure.

Another great location for black and white photography in Reykjavik is Hallgrimskirkja, the city's famous church. The stark white facade of the church contrasts beautifully with the dark sky and the surrounding buildings, making for a dramatic black and white image. The interior of the church is also a great subject for black and white photography, with its intricate design and unique lighting.

Reykjavik's streets and alleys are another great location for black and white photography. The city's buildings are colorful, but in black and white, they take on a different character. The contrasting tones of light and dark create a sense of depth and texture that is unique to black and white photography. The narrow alleys and winding streets of Reykjavik also make for interesting compositions in black and white, with their intricate patterns and details.

Finally, the natural landscapes surrounding Reykjavik are also perfect for black and white photography. The volcanic mountains and rugged coastline provide a dramatic backdrop for any image. In black and white, the textures and details of these landscapes are emphasized, creating a timeless and moody atmosphere.

In conclusion, Reykjavik is a city that lends itself well to black and white photography. The city's unique architecture, colorful buildings, and stunning natural landscapes all take on a different character in black and white. If you are a photographer visiting Reykjavik, be sure to experiment with black and white photography to capture the city's essence in a timeless and moody way.

Reykjavik is a great starting point for any winter photography tour of Iceland, with its colorful houses and iconic landmarks such as the Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall providing plenty of photographic inspiration. The city also offers easy access to the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that takes in some of Iceland's most stunning natural attractions.

The Golden Circle includes the Geysir geothermal area, where visitors can see the Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes, and the Gullfoss waterfall, a breathtaking sight as the water cascades down into the canyon below. The Thingvellir National Park, with its stunning vistas of the rift valley, is also part of the Golden Circle and provides a wealth of opportunities for landscape photography.
Continuing further along the south coast, photographers will be rewarded with even more stunning landscapes. The black sand beaches of Vik and Reynisfjara are particularly striking, with their dramatic basalt columns and crashing waves providing a dramatic backdrop for any photograph.

Further east, the Vatnajokull glacier provides a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of an ice cave, with its translucent blue ice forming a surreal landscape unlike anything else in the world.

Winter in Iceland also provides the opportunity to capture the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that lights up the night sky with swirling green and pink lights. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from late September to early April, making winter the ideal time for a photography trip to Iceland.

In conclusion, Reykjavik and the south coast of Iceland offer a wealth of stunning landscapes for winter photography. From the natural wonders of the Golden Circle to the surreal beauty of the Vatnajokull glacier and the otherworldly Northern Lights, Iceland is a must-visit destination for any landscape photographer.

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Kingston Ontario.

Beamer Falls

Balls Falls

Beamer Falls

Balls Falls

Rockway Falls

Enjoy!  This shit is getting really old.

Here are some other shots that were on the memory card.  New edits on old shots.

Bowen Island - featuring Crayola Beach and the lush forests surrounding the island.  

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Here is the link to the calendar and below is the shot featured.  

https://www.browntrout.ca/canadian-wilderness-2021-square.html

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I decided to take a hike through the short Little Mellon Lake trail in Sheffield Conservation Trail - Stone Mills 

Made from 18 light frames with 6 dark frames by Starry Landscape Stacker 1.8.0. Algorithm: Mean Min Hor Star Dupe

Here is the spread.

Enjoy!!

https://www.canadiangeographic.ca/article/10-canadian-photographers-whose-work-were-loving-right-now
 

Bowen Island

Vermillion Lake Alberta

Bowen Island, Killarney Lake Black and White.

Made from 9 light frames with 5 dark frames by Starry Landscape Stacker 1.8.0. Algorithm: Mean Min Hor Noise

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Stellar's Jay, Dark Eyed Junco's, Spotted Towhee's and Nuthatch's today.

Enjoy the shots of this beautiful park in British Columbia.

Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park Apodaca Provincial Park

Everyone was in there selfie heaven.  

Bowen Island BC Canada.

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Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island BC Canada. Sunsets at the lighthouse. Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island BC Canada. Sunsets at the lighthouse. Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island BC Canada. Sunsets at the lighthouse. Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island BC Canada. Sunsets at the lighthouse.

I had the privilege to get out on the water for a fun day.  All photos taken with the Nikon D850, Nikon 80-200 2.8 VR II.

Enjoy!

Here are some test shots using a Haida GND4 and a B+W ND6 shutter speeds between 1/8th and 30 seconds and apertures around F8-F14 with no blending all single shots.