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.

Las Vegas: Sights of the City

For some reason, my travels have never taken me to Las Vegas - well except one work trip last year but I really didn't get to explore the city.  This past week I packed my bags, along with 31 other friends to celebrate a bachelor party.  It was a great time and we all went to see Britney Spears perform.  While she would not be my first choice of the many shows to see in Vegas, it was still entertaining.

Philadelphia: James Turrell Installation

If you are not familiar with James Turrell, I highly recommend that you look him up.  As a lighting designer I find his work mesmerizing.  This man has taken lighting, nature, and architecture and created some of the most interesting optical illusions around the world.  The real experience is NOT in any photo, but in a realtime viewing of his work.  The changing daylight (and/or electric light) creates a kinetic experience that can play tricks on your eye.  Below are some static photos from his installation at a Friends Meeting House here in Philadelphia.

San Antonio: Historic 1892 Courthouse

As an architectural lighting designer, I am involved in quite a variety of projects - from hotels and casinos to corporate offices and retail malls.  Every once in a while a unique project comes my way and the Bexar County Courthouse was one of them.  Built in 1892, the courthouse underwent several transformations over the next century.  We were brought onto the design team when this National historic landmark was slated to be restored to its original design - which including removing a middle floor that had been aded.  I spent plenty of time with white gloves in historic architectural archives researching what original lighting existed.  The final design involved developing replica gas/electric lights - pendants and sconces to emulate the look at the turn of the century.

State College: Penn State Football

College football games are a staple of any Penn State student.  As students, season tickets were easy to come by, and pretty inexpensive.  After graduating though, not so much.  I lucked out for the PSU vs. MSU game this season and we trekked to State College join in the festivities.  It brought back a lot of memories and was a lot of fun.  Nothing beats being in the stadium for the games.

San Francisco: Exploring Napa Valley

I took a trip to San Francisco for vacation last month and spent an afternoon roaming around Napa Valley with a good friend.  We visited a few wineries as well as an art museum.  I never realized just how many wineries and vineyards co-exist in this region, with many offering a unique variety of wines.  It's a beautiful area that you must visit - whether for a day or even a long weekend.  These photos focus around the Hess Collection - a museum at the Hess winery.