Cuyahoga Valley is a natural area situated north of Akron and south of Cleveland Ohio. This location has many natural features that coalesce offering photographers a host of opportunities to practice their art.
About 30 members of our photography club enjoyed an adventuresome weekend exploring the park and creatively capturing its beauty in photographs. This is the story from my perspective. I am sure each has a story to tell.
Friday, May 2nd 2008
About 30 members of our photography club enjoyed an adventuresome weekend exploring the park and creatively capturing its beauty in photographs. This is the story from my perspective. I am sure each has a story to tell.
Friday, May 2nd 2008
The road trip began solo traveling at dawn from route 51W to 14NW to 303W into Cuyahoga Valley. These indirect routes lead through beautiful farmlands embellished with springtime colors. The journey is as important as the destination. The farmlands across Ohio are picturesque and I stopped many times to photograph bucolic landscapes. Among them was a gem of discovery along route 14. I happened across a huge sheep farm with hundreds of sheep, many of which were baby lambs frolicking in the fields. The sunrise lighting was ideal to work with. It was a perfect spring morning but dark clouds loomed across the sky.
I stopped at Carol’s Diner on route 62 west of Salem Ohio. It is a small Mom & Pop that offers a good country breakfast. It’s so small that I might have missed it if not looking for just such a place.
The prelude to what proved to be a weekend of inclement weather began with a few scattered rain showers during my approach to the valley on Friday. Thunder rumbled in the distance and I decided to stop the car and simply relax and listen to the rain falling. At this point I decided not to lament the spring storms but to embrace them. Unwavering photographers, like our group, will work in any conditions, as was the case during this excursion. After this short rest, it was close to lunchtime and the Winking Lizard on Main Street Peninsula fit the bill. I met Sam, Bob and there wives along with Val for a nice lunch. Much to my delight, the Winking Lizard offers a wide assortment of imported beers among them being a world champion called Celebrator, of Austria. My comments about this beer can be found in the archives of this blog. Well, I would not be satisfied without partaking of a freshly opened Celebrator beer. The food is colorfully named but familiar and good.
A mild break in the rain cleared after lunch and we joined up to explore the territory. One of several waterfalls in the region named Blue Hen Falls is a worthy side trip off Riverview road, the principal north-south road in the park. The rain muddied the waters but the flow was remarkable. The comment was made that not too many nuts were in the woods today due to the wet weather but a few hardy souls hiked around. Most of those hikers seemed to enjoy the rain. Photographers do have one problem with the sour conditions in that the instruments and equipment must not be damaged by water. We had to work while protecting the camera from the water. The images resulting from this can have a great deal of impact because of the moodiness but working in it can be tricky. Picture someone holding an umbrella with one hand and then adjusting settings and composing the perfect image with the free hand. This is all accomplished while climbing up and down forest embankments and wet rocks. I stopped for a short time to reflect in the ambiance of the moment rather than be melancholy about it.
Our next stop was Brecksville train stop. This is the classic train shot with the arched highway overpass framing the train as it approaches the stop. One needs to check the train schedule to time the moment to be set up for the shot. We did not stay for the 20 minutes needed in order to catch the next pass but will cover it later in the trip.
The prelude to what proved to be a weekend of inclement weather began with a few scattered rain showers during my approach to the valley on Friday. Thunder rumbled in the distance and I decided to stop the car and simply relax and listen to the rain falling. At this point I decided not to lament the spring storms but to embrace them. Unwavering photographers, like our group, will work in any conditions, as was the case during this excursion. After this short rest, it was close to lunchtime and the Winking Lizard on Main Street Peninsula fit the bill. I met Sam, Bob and there wives along with Val for a nice lunch. Much to my delight, the Winking Lizard offers a wide assortment of imported beers among them being a world champion called Celebrator, of Austria. My comments about this beer can be found in the archives of this blog. Well, I would not be satisfied without partaking of a freshly opened Celebrator beer. The food is colorfully named but familiar and good.
A mild break in the rain cleared after lunch and we joined up to explore the territory. One of several waterfalls in the region named Blue Hen Falls is a worthy side trip off Riverview road, the principal north-south road in the park. The rain muddied the waters but the flow was remarkable. The comment was made that not too many nuts were in the woods today due to the wet weather but a few hardy souls hiked around. Most of those hikers seemed to enjoy the rain. Photographers do have one problem with the sour conditions in that the instruments and equipment must not be damaged by water. We had to work while protecting the camera from the water. The images resulting from this can have a great deal of impact because of the moodiness but working in it can be tricky. Picture someone holding an umbrella with one hand and then adjusting settings and composing the perfect image with the free hand. This is all accomplished while climbing up and down forest embankments and wet rocks. I stopped for a short time to reflect in the ambiance of the moment rather than be melancholy about it.
Our next stop was Brecksville train stop. This is the classic train shot with the arched highway overpass framing the train as it approaches the stop. One needs to check the train schedule to time the moment to be set up for the shot. We did not stay for the 20 minutes needed in order to catch the next pass but will cover it later in the trip.
We proceeded to the Gorge overlook location near Bridal Veil Falls. This area has a very picturesque overlook into the gorge below. The trees are a mosaic of olive and emerald greens this time of year with new leaves emerging. A mystic cloak of fog seemed to weave its way up and down the vale in a slow motion ballet. One moment it appeared to lift away then returned with even more passion. This kind of gift is what resolute photographers hope to find during travel.
Bridal Veil Falls is located at the extreme north of park boundaries outside the park in the Bedford Reservation area along Gorge Parkway. It is an admirable destination and during this visit cascading water crashed over the edge in torrents. Both Blue Hen and Bridal Veil Falls is a short walk from parking. Again, the water was muddy but the thunderous sound of the falls was enjoyable.
We returned to Peninsula to enjoy dinner at Fishers Restaurant across the road from the Winking Lizard. The dessert was as appetizing as the crowd was boisterous.
Saturday, May 3rd 2008
Increasingly inclement weather did not stop us Saturday morning and we doggedly pursued the perfect photographic opportunity. I was proud to be tagging along with such a prestigious group of photographers. Sam, Bob, Val, Kal, David, and I arrived at Brandywine Falls early dawn. The crashing waters could be heard afar off. My intention was to attempt to go down into the ravine and photograph the falls from below. However, after a short study, decided against this treacherous struggle so early in the morning. The sides are abrupt and full of rocks, roots, mud, and a jungle of flora. What is normally a calm stream at its bottom is now a gush of rapids sweeping everything in there path to its unavoidable ruin.
I decided to go back up the walking path and join Sam in his commendable efforts to capture the perfectly composed shot of the falls from the edge of this ravine. Sam meets me half way and instructs me to go join the others. Perplexed I looked at him puzzled. He then continued to explain that his photographic set up, including not only the Nikon D200 digital SLR, but the lens, Manfrotto tripod, and attachment all fell over the side of the 100 foot cliff. It crashed to the bottom and was helpless, all alone and in full view to those that would dare to look. Photographic enthusiasts understand what a horror this is. To others, let me endeavor and explain it. Devoted photographers develop and emotional bond to their camera equipment but mostly to the camera. As an example, I refer to my camera as “baby or child”. I protect it from harm by shielding it from damage in protective containers. I clean it, talk to it, and even take it with me on long trips away from home. If I was going under water and sinking down my chief concern would be to keep it out of the water even while I gasp my last breath. To have it torn away suddenly and without warning from my loving embrace is synonymous to a crime. Custom car owners are the same way when it comes to the car they have worked on over many years.
Needless to say, this was the beginning of a noteworthy escapade. Because of his bond to the camera and hurt pride, Sam was determined to go down into the abyss and retrieve his baby. Although he insisted upon me joining the others and continuing a day of photography, I oppose with my resolve to help him. My interest in this was two fold, on the one hand, Sam should not go where angels dare not tread without a friend to watch his back and on the other hand, I did originally intended to photograph from below until wisdom compelled my retreat. Now circumstance has forced my hand and I shall slide down into the darkness after all.
In order to have a slim hope of getting down into the ravine we had to hike away from the falls to find an access point then once down hike back up to the falls. The plunge down was dicey, as we held onto tree branches and made efforts to establish the best footing we could. Nothing but pain awaited us should we misplace our footing on the remorseless slope. After hitting bottom and regaining equilibrium, we hiked up toward the falls. I felt what it must have been like exploring these primeval forested lands before humans set foot here. The early light had yet to fully penetrate the ravine but enough to allow sight to where we were going. I watched out for Sam while at the same time set up my tripod to capture the striking image. The backdrop is a growling waterfalls hammering to the bottom, the foreground is flooding, swift moving water rushing along side near to us. We hiked as far as possible only to be turned back by an impenetrable jungle of trees, sheer walls, and vindictive waters, all of them forbidding passage.
With hope lost, we returned up the steep face of the ravine grabbing onto anything that would offer a hand of support. Once returned to the footpath, Sam called the park rangers to report the tragedy. Since I knew Sam would be safe with the rangers I joined the others to continue photographing. Kal was behind the wheel and he made sure we would get to our objective one way or the other, trust me. We put faith in our guardian angels and strapped ourselves in.
We explored the area returning to Blue Hen falls and then to Brecksville Station to photograph the train. Lunch was at the Winking Lizard again where Sam rejoined us. The gyro and home fries was tasty and Celebrator beer helped wash it down. After lunch we went down to the area in the park known as the Ledges off of Kendall Park Road. Sam rejoined our group for lunch and spent the remaining part of the day with us. I will return to the ledges again but this visit was short because the rangers informed us that the resident Bald Eagle was nesting and with hatchlings. The location was revealed to us as the same place we just came from. Along the bike path near the Brecksville Station is a Blue Heron Rookery were the resident Bald Eagle is nesting among them. We quickly traveled back to that location and found them. The rain was coming down steady at this time but being stubborn we continued to make an effort. A rookery is a heavy concentration of nesting birds in one location many in a single tree. This one had about two dozen nesting birds with a single large nest belonging to the eagle. In this location of the country, a Bald Eagle is celebrated because they are relatively uncommon.
Bridal Veil Falls is located at the extreme north of park boundaries outside the park in the Bedford Reservation area along Gorge Parkway. It is an admirable destination and during this visit cascading water crashed over the edge in torrents. Both Blue Hen and Bridal Veil Falls is a short walk from parking. Again, the water was muddy but the thunderous sound of the falls was enjoyable.
We returned to Peninsula to enjoy dinner at Fishers Restaurant across the road from the Winking Lizard. The dessert was as appetizing as the crowd was boisterous.
Saturday, May 3rd 2008
Increasingly inclement weather did not stop us Saturday morning and we doggedly pursued the perfect photographic opportunity. I was proud to be tagging along with such a prestigious group of photographers. Sam, Bob, Val, Kal, David, and I arrived at Brandywine Falls early dawn. The crashing waters could be heard afar off. My intention was to attempt to go down into the ravine and photograph the falls from below. However, after a short study, decided against this treacherous struggle so early in the morning. The sides are abrupt and full of rocks, roots, mud, and a jungle of flora. What is normally a calm stream at its bottom is now a gush of rapids sweeping everything in there path to its unavoidable ruin.
I decided to go back up the walking path and join Sam in his commendable efforts to capture the perfectly composed shot of the falls from the edge of this ravine. Sam meets me half way and instructs me to go join the others. Perplexed I looked at him puzzled. He then continued to explain that his photographic set up, including not only the Nikon D200 digital SLR, but the lens, Manfrotto tripod, and attachment all fell over the side of the 100 foot cliff. It crashed to the bottom and was helpless, all alone and in full view to those that would dare to look. Photographic enthusiasts understand what a horror this is. To others, let me endeavor and explain it. Devoted photographers develop and emotional bond to their camera equipment but mostly to the camera. As an example, I refer to my camera as “baby or child”. I protect it from harm by shielding it from damage in protective containers. I clean it, talk to it, and even take it with me on long trips away from home. If I was going under water and sinking down my chief concern would be to keep it out of the water even while I gasp my last breath. To have it torn away suddenly and without warning from my loving embrace is synonymous to a crime. Custom car owners are the same way when it comes to the car they have worked on over many years.
Needless to say, this was the beginning of a noteworthy escapade. Because of his bond to the camera and hurt pride, Sam was determined to go down into the abyss and retrieve his baby. Although he insisted upon me joining the others and continuing a day of photography, I oppose with my resolve to help him. My interest in this was two fold, on the one hand, Sam should not go where angels dare not tread without a friend to watch his back and on the other hand, I did originally intended to photograph from below until wisdom compelled my retreat. Now circumstance has forced my hand and I shall slide down into the darkness after all.
In order to have a slim hope of getting down into the ravine we had to hike away from the falls to find an access point then once down hike back up to the falls. The plunge down was dicey, as we held onto tree branches and made efforts to establish the best footing we could. Nothing but pain awaited us should we misplace our footing on the remorseless slope. After hitting bottom and regaining equilibrium, we hiked up toward the falls. I felt what it must have been like exploring these primeval forested lands before humans set foot here. The early light had yet to fully penetrate the ravine but enough to allow sight to where we were going. I watched out for Sam while at the same time set up my tripod to capture the striking image. The backdrop is a growling waterfalls hammering to the bottom, the foreground is flooding, swift moving water rushing along side near to us. We hiked as far as possible only to be turned back by an impenetrable jungle of trees, sheer walls, and vindictive waters, all of them forbidding passage.
With hope lost, we returned up the steep face of the ravine grabbing onto anything that would offer a hand of support. Once returned to the footpath, Sam called the park rangers to report the tragedy. Since I knew Sam would be safe with the rangers I joined the others to continue photographing. Kal was behind the wheel and he made sure we would get to our objective one way or the other, trust me. We put faith in our guardian angels and strapped ourselves in.
We explored the area returning to Blue Hen falls and then to Brecksville Station to photograph the train. Lunch was at the Winking Lizard again where Sam rejoined us. The gyro and home fries was tasty and Celebrator beer helped wash it down. After lunch we went down to the area in the park known as the Ledges off of Kendall Park Road. Sam rejoined our group for lunch and spent the remaining part of the day with us. I will return to the ledges again but this visit was short because the rangers informed us that the resident Bald Eagle was nesting and with hatchlings. The location was revealed to us as the same place we just came from. Along the bike path near the Brecksville Station is a Blue Heron Rookery were the resident Bald Eagle is nesting among them. We quickly traveled back to that location and found them. The rain was coming down steady at this time but being stubborn we continued to make an effort. A rookery is a heavy concentration of nesting birds in one location many in a single tree. This one had about two dozen nesting birds with a single large nest belonging to the eagle. In this location of the country, a Bald Eagle is celebrated because they are relatively uncommon.
After a short time with the Blue Heron, the storm clouds darkened and the rain came down in buckets. As explained earlier we all might have gotten drenched but our cameras remained dry by the most part. Sam and I got soaking wet and decided to call it a day and return to the Inn. A few hours of R&R was greatly desirable after such an adventuresome day.
Our entire group of 30 gathered for a rewarding dinner at the Holiday Inn across the road. Getting together with friends is always a nice way to conclude an enjoyable day of photography.
Sunday, May 4th 2008
Sunday morning I felt like a hyena after surviving a fight with a lion. Parts I forgot I had started complaining. Remind me to get more exercise.
Today is our last day for the weekend trip and I returned to a solo mode. In many ways going solo gives a creative photographer more freedom to contemplate his surroundings and find opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
I said my farewells and started out at dawn returning to the Ledges location of the park. This visit more time was spent here. At this early hour, I was alone walking among the gothic rock formations around the Ledges location. It was a cool refreshing morning and the song birds sang to beat the heavenly band. All kinds of songs filled the area. The natural ambiance of this place gave me a feeling of being renewed. The storms have passed and warm sunshine slowly filtered through the trees. I made several nice images while walking around very slowly among the features.
Our entire group of 30 gathered for a rewarding dinner at the Holiday Inn across the road. Getting together with friends is always a nice way to conclude an enjoyable day of photography.
Sunday, May 4th 2008
Sunday morning I felt like a hyena after surviving a fight with a lion. Parts I forgot I had started complaining. Remind me to get more exercise.
Today is our last day for the weekend trip and I returned to a solo mode. In many ways going solo gives a creative photographer more freedom to contemplate his surroundings and find opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
I said my farewells and started out at dawn returning to the Ledges location of the park. This visit more time was spent here. At this early hour, I was alone walking among the gothic rock formations around the Ledges location. It was a cool refreshing morning and the song birds sang to beat the heavenly band. All kinds of songs filled the area. The natural ambiance of this place gave me a feeling of being renewed. The storms have passed and warm sunshine slowly filtered through the trees. I made several nice images while walking around very slowly among the features.
Some wild mushrooms and young ferns caught my eye along the way. After about two hours another photographer from our group meets me and on returning to the parking area several others also arrived. David and Mary Lou informed me of another even more impressive Blue Heron Rookery along the side of the road at the southern tip of the park along Bath Road. This rookery has been given a name of “Heronry Wayside”.
I advanced to the location and spent about 20 minutes photographing the remarkable birds while in flight. This colony had many more nesting birds than did the other one; about three dozen nest. If one looks closely the blue of the wings is clearly noticeable even to being slightly indigo in color depending on how the light reflects. The noise that they make is more like a gawking sound than a song.
After experiencing the Heronry Wayside, I decided to visit the Hale Farm and Village off Ira Road inside the park. I am very glad to have done so. This location is packed with countless photographic opportunities. The village is a perfect setting of homesteads, barns, a steeple church, reflecting pond, blacksmiths brick kiln, and several other interesting buildings. A few farm animals meander about the ideal setting. I must return during the autumn months. The hours of operation are random so it’s best to look it up on the web and find out what events are scheduled. However, along the roadside is good enough to make image captures of this charming village.
After a worthwhile time at Hale Farm and Village, I started my back roads return home. I encountered several locations worth setting up the tripod for along the way. The contrast of spring flowers and tomb stones caught my attention.
All in all the Photography clubs spring weekend trip this year was ok. The weather could have been better but blue sky is not favorable ether, as it creates extreme contrast in light and dark. It would have been perfect with overcast some sun and no rain. Gathering with friends is the important memory. God bless Sam, he went back to the fallen camera with a grappling hook and rope to pull that baby out. Here is a photo of it.
After experiencing the Heronry Wayside, I decided to visit the Hale Farm and Village off Ira Road inside the park. I am very glad to have done so. This location is packed with countless photographic opportunities. The village is a perfect setting of homesteads, barns, a steeple church, reflecting pond, blacksmiths brick kiln, and several other interesting buildings. A few farm animals meander about the ideal setting. I must return during the autumn months. The hours of operation are random so it’s best to look it up on the web and find out what events are scheduled. However, along the roadside is good enough to make image captures of this charming village.
After a worthwhile time at Hale Farm and Village, I started my back roads return home. I encountered several locations worth setting up the tripod for along the way. The contrast of spring flowers and tomb stones caught my attention.
All in all the Photography clubs spring weekend trip this year was ok. The weather could have been better but blue sky is not favorable ether, as it creates extreme contrast in light and dark. It would have been perfect with overcast some sun and no rain. Gathering with friends is the important memory. God bless Sam, he went back to the fallen camera with a grappling hook and rope to pull that baby out. Here is a photo of it.
1 comment:
Poor Sam, that should never happen. So sad. I really love the mood in your pictures. A little sad perhaps and damp. I can smell the leaves wet after months of winter. Kind of mushroomy.
Have you ever been to Warren, Pennsylvania. There is a place in the forest near by where the rocks look like sea creatures. I will have to look up for the name something like Peter's Rocks... I just love the forest of PA.
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