Philadelphia: Solidarity with Paris

This post is a little late but work has been busy.  Earlier this month Paris experienced a horrible tragedy.  The rest of the world mourned with the French and showed their sign of solidarity in one of the simplest ways possible - with light.  As a lighting designer, this had some special meaning; it shows how much impact light has on us - emotional, story-telling, and insightful.  Our firm manages the design we completed for the Avenue of the Arts here in Philadelphia and we programmed a 'Solidarity' show to run in the aftermath of the tragedy.  Below are some shots that I captured of the programming.

Pompeii: Historic Ruins (Part 1)

Although the vacation with my sister was focused on Venice, Florence, and Rome, I really wanted to make a quick visit to Pompeii and Naples.  Naples of course for the only REAL Italian pizza and Pompeii for the historic significance of the city.  I will warn you that mid-July is probably not the best time to visit, but it was still an amazing adventure with Mt Vesuvius ominously in the background.

Rome: Highlights of the City (Part 1)

This is a bit overdue since my Italy travels in July.  Still, better late than never.  My sister I travels started in Venice but we eventually made our way to Rome.  Wow!  What a huge city.  We only spent three days in the city, and I don't think we saw even a fraction of what it has to offer.  Here are a few highlights.

Philadelphia: Exploring the City

Sometimes it can be easy to take your own city for granted.  You pass through the streets and patronize the restaurants and shops, but we don't always stop to appreciate the nuances.  At least once a year I make it a point to rent some really nice camera lenses and set out on foot to explore Philadelphia thru the lens.  This is something that I picked up from my 3 years living in Dallas.  I found it a great way to really get to know the soul of the city.  So, here are some random shots from all around the city - the Delaware River to the Schuylkill River.  

Florence: Highlights of the City (Part 1)

The second stop on our trip through Italy was Florence.  It was a short stop, we spent just 24 hours in the city.  We heard so many great things about the area but time wasn't on our side for this initial trip.  Still, we managed to see quite a few highlights and take in the unique culture.

Venice: Highlights of the City (Part 1)

In July, my sister and I spent 8 days exploring Italy.  It was a great chance to catch up and appreciate some one-on-one time that is so hard to come by as we get older and move apart.  Our first stop in Italy was Venice.  Of all the cities that I visited along the way, I think that I loved this city most.  The lack of cars and all the narrow twisting and narrow streets made it feel very special.  

San Francisco: Special Wedding

In June I was honored to be part of wedding for Jeff & Ricardo.  Jeff is my best friend; we've known each other since 7th grade and have continued to be part of each others lives through the years, even after he moved to San Fran several years ago.  Needless to say, the wedding was amazing!  

The official ceremony was private and held at City Hall the day prior.  It was meant for just them and two witnesses.  Jeff & Ricardo asked me to be there to document the day.  Being there to experience it was touching and of course I cried a little.  Anyway, here are a few images that I captured.  Congrats guys!  Love you both! 

Las Vegas: Aerial Tour

During a trip to Vegas in May 2014, I had the chance to take a flight out over the Grand Canyon and around the surrounding area.  There were so many amazing views from the air.  It really gives you a unique perspective on things.  Here are a few shots - including a shot of the Hoover Dam.