Hello from San Cristobal, NM. I hope everyone had a great week. This week, a visit to the Alamosa railyards that I hinted at last week. Mostly abstract photo ops that float my boat. Enjoy!
Alamosa sign at the railyards.
“The Alamosa train depot, located in Alamosa, Colorado, is a historic landmark that reflects the rich railroad heritage of the region. Built in the early 20th century, the depot served as a crucial hub for the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, facilitating the transport of passengers and goods across the San Luis Valley. Its architectural style, characterized by classic brickwork and traditional design elements, embodies the era’s industrial optimism. Today, the depot stands as a testament to the transformative impact of railroads on the American West, and it continues to be a point of interest for visitors exploring the area’s history and scenic landscapes.”
Rio Grande Scenic, carriage, and cloud.
Carriage windows, patina, rust, and cloud.
Carriage windows, patina, rust close-up!
Pealing paint.
“Ponder the Coalescence” graffiti at the railyards.
Carriage window and patina.
Broken window, yellow and blue.
Carolina Southern locomotive.
On the road along the railroad tracks in Romeo, Colorado.
“Stop in Today”
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
Hello from San Cristobal, NM. I hope everyone had a great week. It’s raining here today. We are very happy about that. This week, more random selections from the archives, including the San Luis Valley, El Rito (west), and northern New Mexico.
I hope you enjoy!
Random selections from bygone days.
Stone house and fence, San Luis Valley, Colorado.
Near the house in the photo above, is owl nest on a platform of sticks in a potato bunker. Initially, I thought it might be a magpie or hawk nest, but then an owl flew directly over my head from another part of the building and out through the entrance. Over the years, I’ve seen more owls in different bunkers, alas no pictures, yet.
Owl nest in a potato bunker, Colorado.
On a different trip these two juvenile great horned owls were seen in a tree close bye to the bunker..
Juvenile great horned owls.
In the San Luis Valley of Colorado, potato storage bunkers/cellars play a crucial role in preserving the region’s abundant potato harvests. These bunkers are specially designed facilities that maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels to extend the shelf life of potatoes, preventing spoilage and sprouting. The valley’s high altitude and arid climate make it an ideal location for potato farming, and the storage bunkers ensure that the produce can be stored for months, allowing farmers to supply fresh potatoes year-round. These structures are often partially underground, leveraging the earth’s natural insulation properties to maintain a stable environment, which is essential for maintaining the quality and nutritional value of the potatoes.
Railway depot in Romeo, Colorado.
Romeo, Colorado.
A faded flag emblem on the side of a carriage at the Alamosa, railyards. Maybe I’ll make a post on images from the railyards soon.
The El Rito Mansion, on a Spring photo tour/workshop. Since this photo was taken, I’ve been in touch with the family and relatives who grew up here.
El Rito NM.
At the end of a good day of shooting, the soft twilight, on the Rio Grande Gorge, and Ute Mountain, NM. A hand held image shot in near darkness and lightened in Photoshop® to bring out the lavendar hues and highlight on the river.
Rio Grande Gorge, Ute Mountain, NM.
New growth on a pine tree in Arroyo Seco, NM. The new growth on the branches are a lighter green than the rest of the tree. Edited as a black and white image, this is what I came up with.
Pine tree, Arroyo Seco, NM.
As always, thanks for visiting and looking. Have a great week. G
Greetings from New Mexico. This week, a section of a very large elk herd in the San Luis Valley, and a few more scans from my Kodachrome 64 slide transparency collection. There were many more elk than I could fit in the panorama, in a different area of the fields. Still, you get the idea!
Onto other things. I found this scene amusing, the one guy looking up. I never did find out what he found so interesting.
Bodie Ghost Town, California.
A favorite quote from T.E. Lawrence of Arabia, Kodachrome 64 converted to black and white in Photoshop.
T.E. Lawrence quote 1985 on a building in Pasadena, CA.
This girl left her shoes and beach shovel and went for a run on Bamburgh beach.
Girl running on Bamburgh beach, UK
One of my jobs in the 1980s was photographing for the planning and development departments, among others. I had a lot of fun and really liked this picture when I took it and again today. Read more here in my bio.
St. Andrews and construction, Pasadena, CA
Another vintage-style poster/postcard created using three of my images, the car, adobe buildings, and a landscape with sunset, along with some prompts in AI, to create the graphic design.
Vintage style poster/postcard.
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
Thank you for a great year. Thanks for joining me here, for your support and friendship, and for joining me on one of my photo tour workshops. I hope everyone has a wonderful time. See you next week. G
Greetings from San Cristobal, NM. This week, cormorants roosting along the Rio Chama near Abiquiu, Taos Mountain, a favorite wild horse photo, and the Bisti Badlands near Chaco Canyon.
Twelve years ago, I created the piece below titled “Leaving the Roost.” Unfortunately, the original piece disappeared, so I spent an hour locating the original individual shots to recreate it. The piece measures 80″x80″ and is now ready to be sent to the printer. I particularly enjoy the ‘wild’ panorama stitching that follows the shape of the old cottonwood and how many cormorants utilize this tree. This one is for you, Larry H.
Cormorants leaving the roost along the Rio Chama, Abiquiu, NM
Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness near Chaco Canyon. Over the years, I’ve spent many months camping in this area. I think my first camping trip here was in 1989, when it was a wilderness study area. Here’s a petrified tree stump. Click on the photo to enlarge.
My shadow, an easy subject.
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
Let me know if you want to go to the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness.
Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness is a designated wilderness area located in northwestern New Mexico, known for its unique and otherworldly landscape. This area is part of the larger San Juan Basin and is characterized by its striking badlands, which feature a variety of unusual geological formations.
Here are some key features of the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness:
Hoodoos and Rock Formations: The wilderness is famous for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins. These formations are created through the erosion of softer sedimentary rocks, leaving behind the harder rock formations.
Fossils: The area is rich in fossils, particularly from the Late Cretaceous period. Visitors can find petrified wood and fossils of ancient plants and animals, offering a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.
Colorful Landscape: The badlands are known for their vibrant colors, with layers of sedimentary rock displaying shades of red, orange, yellow, and gray. This colorful landscape is especially striking during sunrise and sunset.
Remote and Undeveloped: As a designated wilderness area, Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah is largely undeveloped and offers a sense of solitude and tranquility. There are no established trails or facilities, making it a destination for those seeking a more rugged and natural experience.
Photography and Exploration: The unique geological features and dramatic landscapes make Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah a popular destination for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area provides ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Visitors to Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness should be prepared for a remote and challenging environment. It’s important to bring sufficient water, navigation tools, and be mindful of Leave No Trace principles to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Greetings from New Mexico, the land of enchantment.. This week, scenes in the land of enchantment. Some say the land of entrapment. Once here, it’s hard to leave. I can attest to that statement. I first arrived here in 1984, moving here permanently in 1988. My friend, Harry you met last week, and his wife, Noreen, were two of the first people I met. It’s been 41 years this coming Thanksgiving.
Below is a piece I wrote about my first time on the High Road to Taos.
“In Thanksgiving week 1984, I made my first of many trips to New Mexico. On this occasion, five of us friends set out on a foggy morning from Santa Fe and made our way north on the high road to Taos. The sites and sounds on the streets of Santa Fe soon opened up to the immense vistas of mesas, and beyond to the Taos Volcanic Plateau.
We passed through the village of Chimayo, climbing the hill to Truchas (Spanish for Trout). Rapidly gaining elevation, the landscape changed to pristine hills of ponderosa pines and rust-colored tones of scrub oak in the undergrowth. Bare white highlights of lanky aspen punctuated the vast square miles of pine trees in the Carson National Forrest. Through the misty veil of condensation on the window, we were afforded more than a subtle hint of what autumn in the high country of New Mexico might have looked like one month earlier.
Leaving Truchas for Penasco, the fog set in. The temperature dropped in the sparsely populated, mountain communities of Las Trampas and Picuris. The colder air outside the car became magically enhanced from the aroma of piñon and juniper burning in the fireplaces of scattered homes. At this very moment… sometimes you just know it, the mystery of things unknown and northern New Mexico took a very palpable hold on me.
Not more than four years later, in the spring of 1988, that hold tightened and I moved to a small adobe building with two fireplaces, in Talpa, NM and began stockpiling five cords of wood for what promised to be a cold winter that year…“
The land of Enchantment, and every day I go to Town, I pass this scene of Taos Pueblo Peak. A little dusting of snow today with more promising accumulations tonight.
Taos Pueblo Peak.
Many places here in the Land of Enchantment never get old for me. You know this one!
Arroyo Hondo, Cottonwood.
Details in the land of enchantment, a tiny pine cone among this year’s fallen leaves.
Pine cone and leaves.
Costilla, New Mexico, located in the San Luis Valley, on the New Mexico/Colorado state line, is about as far north as one can go in this land of enchantment. No less enchanting, this area and its abandoned farms and buildings inspired John Nichols’ book, Milagro Beanfield War. The movie was filmed in Truchas on the High Road to Taos.
Costilla, NM.
New work in the making. “Three chairs and a tree.”
On the plateau in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
As always, thank you for looking and all the kind words of support and compliments. Have a great week. G
Greetings from New Mexico. This week, wild horses. For the last three weeks, I’ve been in the landscape of a Georgia O’Keeffe painting, exploring the areas around Abiquiu, and Ghost Ranch, NM, five times, and again tomorrow. I never tire of it, but it’s time for a change and to head out in search of wild horses, sandhill cranes, hawks, and elk. A change of scenery and subject is always good for the soul and the portfolio.
Wild horses (and one bull) on the plateau.
The following two images were taken in spring.
Sandhill Cranes, Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Sandhill Cranes coming in for a landing.
These two were trucking along foraging in the fields near Monte Vista NWR.
Sandhill Cranes.
Hawks are plentiful, and this time of year, in old snags and on power poles.
Red-tailed hawk…. I think.
Juvenile Golden Eagle and Sandhill Cranes.
I doubt it will snow on the peaks before next week, but horses are always fun to spot. Here’s a band on the plateau with Blanca Peak in Colorado.
On the plateau with Blanca Peak in Colorado.
Another band on the plateau.
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
If you’d like to read more, here’s a brief account of the area.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are remarkable landscapes in the southwestern United States, known for their unique geological features and diverse wildlife.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau, located in northern New Mexico, is a striking expanse formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. This plateau is characterized by its rugged terrain, with ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic peaks, such as Ute Mountain and San Antonio Mountain. The Rio Grande Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Rio Grande, slices through the plateau, providing a stunning natural spectacle and a vital habitat for various species.
Adjacent to the plateau, the San Luis Valley stretches across southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. This high-altitude valley is one of the largest in the world, flanked by the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges. Its vast, flat expanse is dotted with wetlands, grasslands, and desert shrublands, creating a mosaic of habitats that support a rich array of wildlife.
The wildlife in these regions is as diverse as the landscapes themselves. The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are home to numerous bird species, making them popular destinations for birdwatchers. The wetlands and riparian areas attract migratory birds such as sandhill cranes, which stop over in the valley during their long journeys. Raptors, including golden eagles and red-tailed hawks, soar above the open spaces, while songbirds flit among the shrubs and trees.
Mammals also thrive in these areas. Mule deer and elk roam the grasslands and forests, while smaller creatures like coyotes, foxes, and rabbits are common sights. The plateau and valley provide critical habitat for more elusive species as well, such as bobcats and mountain lions, which find refuge in the rugged terrain.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are not only geological and ecological treasures but also cultural and historical ones. Indigenous peoples have lived in these regions for thousands of years, and their deep connection to the land is evident in the rich cultural heritage that persists today.
Together, these landscapes offer a glimpse into the dynamic interplay of natural forces and the resilience of life in a challenging environment. They remind us of the importance of preserving such unique ecosystems for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Hello from San Cristobal, New Mexico! This weekend marks the summer solstice, occurring on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 8:42 p.m. MDT. Over the years, I have made it a tradition to spend both the summer and winter solstices out with my camera, often capturing images at the precise moment of the solstice. While it’s not always eventful, the occasions when I do capture something are particularly memorable and enjoyable.
Below, I’ve shared some images from previous years where I managed to capture moments during the summer solstice that were especially meaningful to me. One of my favorites was taken in Plaza Blanca, NM. It was also a relief to find some shade in an alcove where I set up for the shot. Enjoy!
Summer Solstice, Plaza Blanca, NM.
I hope you’ll enjoy the following moments and can get out on Friday for the Summer Solstice, and catch the moment.
Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly.
Red-tailed Hawk.
White Horse, Ranchos de Taos, NM.
Pond plant reflections, Taos.
Muskrat eating at the Shuree Ponds, Valle Vidal, NM.
A visit to Valle Vidal is sure to be filled with delightful experiences.
Comanche Point, Valle Vidal, NM.
Indian Paintbrush in the high country.
Apache Plume, San Cristobal.
Red cloud over Taos.
Fajada Butte sun star, Chaco Canyon, NM.
And lastly the print of the week, a solstice moment taken in Taos NM,
Taos Mountain Trees.
As always, Thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
Greetings from San Cristobal, NM. This past week brought a mix of wild weather, scenic locations, and rewarding moments during a photo tour through the San Luis Valley.
On May 1st, I led a photo tour with my client Randy. The wind created dust plumes and walls of sand moving across the landscape, adding a dramatic edge to our image-making. Despite the challenging conditions, Randy captured some striking photographs. With just a bit of light editing, he’s heading home with a collection of print-worthy keepers.
Just yesterday, May 6, we were treated to a surprise of nearly three inches of snow layered over a bed of hail. Overnight, our deck turned into a sheet of ice, much to the delight of the dogs, who raced and skidded across it like athletes.
Back in the San Luis Valley, one of our first stops was the historic Anderson Grain Elevator in Jaroso, Colorado. It’s a compelling subject with its weathered textures and quiet presence, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as a backdrop.
Anderson’s Grain Elevator, Jaroso, CO.
A familiar landmark that I visit often, the iconic red barn, continues to bear the brunt of time and wind. Sadly, it’s beginning to lean and twist under pressure. The siding has started to give way, and I suspect the resulting gaps are funneling the gusts through, paradoxically easing the strain while hastening the barn’s decline. Its days are numbered.
From there, we moved on to another of my favorite locations, the Lobatos Bridge, a steel span across the Rio Grande dating back to the 1890s.
The view from the bridge is a photographer’s dream, with the river winding away toward the towering Blanca Peak Massif in the distance. It’s a scene that never fails to inspire.
Rio Grande from the Lobatos Bridge, Colorado, with Blanca Peak.
Greetings from San Cristobal, NM. This week, minimalist abstract art in a square format.
In June 2024, I said there might be another post of random abstraction, and as I have so many of this type of image, mostly shot on an iPhone, here goes.
Click on an image to expand and click off it to go back. Enjoy!
I wrote some sentences and put them as prompts into Grammarly and ChatGPT. This is what they came up with, modified further by me. Let me know your thoughts.
The Allure of Minimalist Abstract Art in Square Format
In a world saturated with noise and complexity, minimalist abstract art offers a visual breath of fresh air—clean lines, subtle textures, and intentional simplicity. When paired with the symmetry of a square format, this genre takes on a uniquely balanced and meditative quality that resonates deeply in modern spaces.
Why Square? The square canvas provides perfect equilibrium. Unlike rectangles, which inherently suggest direction, the square is neutral—neither vertical nor horizontal. This neutrality invites the viewer to experience the artwork without predetermined movement, making it an ideal playground for minimalist expression.
Less is Powerful Minimalist abstract art thrives on reduction. It strips away the nonessential, leaving only what truly matters: form, color, space, and emotion. A single brushstroke, a subtle shift in tone, or a geometric repetition can evoke calm, curiosity, or contemplation.
Harmony in Design Whether hanging solo or as part of a grid, square-format minimalist pieces create rhythm and order. Their visual harmony complements contemporary interiors, bringing structure to eclectic rooms or serenity to stark spaces. They don’t shout—they whisper, and in that quietness, they speak volumes.
Final Thoughts Minimalist abstract art in a square format isn’t about what you see—it’s about what you feel. It’s not minimal for the sake of aesthetics but to create space: for thought, stillness, and connection. In its quiet, it offers a rare and refreshing clarity.
Explore the balance. Embrace the square. Let less say more.
As always, Thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
