I like architecture.

I do a fair amount if architectural photography - something I never thought I'd like to do. Turns out I do like it, and I think it is because I appreciate good design. I have a problem of collecting chairs - old chairs ususally. All of them are designed well. Thus my problem. Anyway. These images are from one of my newest and favorite clients, ROOM DESIGN. They are an architecture firm based in Minneapolis. It is really fun to work with them, because they are the ones who designed the place and are excited about seeing it photographed well.
These images are from a loft in uptown, really close to Lake Calhoun. The bathroom is great, isn't it. I look forward to working more with these guys in the future. They are a talented bunch. Look for more of their work at the Franconia Sculpture Garden, as ROOM is designing the coming campus. Should be really cool when it is done - I've seen the models!

your next vacation?

One of my first assignments for the NY Times was to go Sailing in North Dakota. When I heard about it, my forehead wrinkled into a confused frown. What could we possibly sail on in ND that would be worth the NY Times' attention? Of course, I took the assignment though...

I had a lot to learn about ND. I will preface the rest of this story with this: North Dakota is now one of my favorite states. Why?! you might exclaim. The reason I love it is the same reason I didn't think I would. There is not much there. It is spread out, vast and empty for the most part. Living in a metropolis for the last 7 years has taught me to appreciate the "empty" space of some of our "bread basket" states.

Back to the sailing now. Lake Sakakawea is the product of damming the Missouri River at the edge of the badlands. So, as you can see from the images, the lake is the badlands - now with water in it. Gorgeous! The sailing was great. The lake is huge. Not very wide, but look at a map of the state and you will see how much area you can cover on the lake.

We sailed on the "Sovereign", captained by Mike Quinn who lives in Haven, ND. He's a jolly, affable gentleman who make you feel like you've know him for years - and once you meet him you will want to. I really enjoyed Mike's company. So much so, that this summer - a year after the assignment, I took my family of four (Wife, son {6}, son {3} and I) of an overnight sail on the "Sovereign" - Mike's 35-40' sailboat that sleeps as many as 6 (more if you get cozy).

The highlights, besides the beautiful scenery and sailing, were grilling burgers on the boat at sunset, searching for (and finding) fossils in the red clay hills, dragging behind the boat on a rope - with a kid on my back. After a busy day, we fell asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat. Just like mom and the rocking chair. Ahhh...

From Minneapolis, Haven is a 7-8 hour drive. A do-able distance. If you are looking for your next domestic vacation and you desire an adventure that is at the same time relaxing and fun, give me a shout and I'll connect you with Mike. He charters the boat during the summer and would love to show you his lake. You won't be disappointed.

While you are out there, you might also want to make a short drive to the rustic cabins on the edge of the badlands. Cheap - no seriously - CHEAP and quiet little cabins - not luxurious, rustic. From there you can hike as far as you'd like into the badlands. Great times. If you have any questions about the trip, let me know, It is a trip I will take again and think that some of you might also enjoy. (www.badlandstrailrides.com)- cabin information and photos.

Trouble adding images - will come soon though.