I'm really trying to get some solid astrophotography shots to share with you, but as you might know, it's not exactly easy. The conditions have to be just right, and they simply haven’t been cooperating lately.

This post is proof that you don’t need fancy camera gear to capture something magical.

Pictures are the best way to hold onto memories.

There was a time when I was obsessed with HDR photography. It was (and in some circles still is) hugely popular, but I've mostly moved on. Modern digital cameras now have excellent dynamic range straight out of the camera, so the need for heavy HDR processing isn't as strong as it once was.

I’ve always been something of an armchair pilot. For years I logged countless hours on flight simulators and even built scenery and buildings for them. I also became a regular at hot air balloon events when my kids were young. Every Saturday morning we’d head to the balloon rallies in Boise, Idaho, watch the launches, then go out for breakfast together. During the week I’d often ride my bike past the launch field on my way to work just to catch a glimpse of the balloons lifting off.

This elegant pair of Greater Sandhill Cranes