2011 Retrospective

2011.  It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.  But mostly I'm thinking about the best of times.  And when I do, it all somehow comes back to the camera.  Certainly because photography is something I love and the images bring back good memories, but that's not the whole story.  Let me share a few of my favorite images of 2011 and maybe you'll understand what I mean. 

In 2011, my kids occasionally actually stopped and looked at the camera.  Mostly no smiles, but that probably makes both of these images.  In all seriousness, my boys are young but photography has really become a thing we share.  They are always excited about the pictures and even are making a few of their own.

Evans Notch, Maine

Portsmouth, NH

Thanks to a good friend, I took pictures at my first sporting event late in 2010 and enjoyed shooting several showshoe and mountain running races last year.  The photography was exciting and fun, I found paid opportunities for the images and, best of all, I met wonderful people and amazing athletes. In many ways, this work brought dreams to reality in 2011.  Thank you to everyone who encouraged and supported me at these shoots. 

Kevin Tilton at the Sandwich Sidehiller Snowshoe Race  Sandwich, New Hampshire

US Mountain Running Championships   North Conway, New Hampshire


Inov-8 Evoskin Photo Shoot

Speaking of friends, last year I met several other NH photographers and they have become great new friends.  I owe some of my favorite images of the year to their companionship, guidance and tolerance for random explorations to look for locations.

Sugar Hill, NH

Sandwich Notch, NH

Jefferson, NH

Sedona, Arizona

And sometimes friends asked me to take pictures of remarkable things.  I'm indebted to them for the opportunity and so much more.

The Stanley Cup at Krista's Restaurant  Cornish, Maine

Old Theatre  Kezar Falls, Maine

For a long time, photography has been a zen escape for me.  When I pick up the camera and start to focus on framing images, everything else slips away.  The  noise of day to day life disappears and things fall into place.  The natural order of the world is restored.  This year I really needed that.  As always, I met amazing people, saw beautiful, inspiring things and every time I walked away with a new perspective. 

Shelburne, New Hampshire

Berlin, New Hampshire

Leonard Knight   Salvation Mountain, California

Joshua Tree, California


Duluth, Minnesota

When I reflect on the last year, photography nourished and sustained me when I needed it most. Making images also connected me to people and places in ways I never imagined.  I don't think it's an exaggeration to say it's changed me and my life in many, many positive ways.  I'm so grateful for the amazing people that surround me... my kids, extended family, friends and collegues.  Their support, feedback and encouragement have made a huge difference in my life.  I wish us all a fantastic 2012!