The Last Assignment

My last assignment for Midland was a tea party at a local pottery studio. Croquet seemed like a proper game for such an event. The office was quiet as I turned it in and it felt strange leaving my key on Ryan's desk. I learned a lot during my stint at the paper, and I can't say enough Nathan, Ryan and John. Best of luck to you all and I'll see you around.

Brother Sister Date

My last full day in Michigan I took Lauren up to Center Lake for a surprise horseback riding adventure. My friends Sue and Carissa graciously took time out of their day to lead saddle our horses and lead us on a trail ride. The weather was perfect, and after a fantastic ride around the camp property we went down to the lake to get our feet wet. I used to lifeguard on the dock, and it was surreal being there again. Thanks again Sue and Carissa for the ride! And Lauren, well, you're pretty cool too. I can't wait to see you in July!

I want a dog.

Prom Fashion

Swim Feature

Going to the Chapel...

...or rather, the Bailey's backyard for a wedding. Last September I photographed the wedding of Valorie Carter and Matthew Bailey. I was happy to be part of their day. I've known them both since middle school when I used to idolize Matt and his band "The Closer Phenomenon." When I was in middle school Matt was in high school and I looked up to the "the band" in awe. Little did I know then that'd years later we'd be friends and that I'd photograph his wedding! Funny how things work out. Happy first year of marriage Matt and Val!

Back on the Basketball Beat

This week March Madness begins, which means the start of the Michigan high school girl's basketball tournament. I covered both the Midland and Dow games tonight. They both won which means that these cross town rivals will face off against each other on Friday. Only one team will advance. Sounds like a recipe for good photos.

Today though, both teams skated by their opponents and seem pretty relaxed except for a few fast paced minutes at the start of the Dow/Mt. Pleasant game. I'm excited for more end-of-the-season intensity coming up, but I'm even more excited for Spring and some outdoor sports for once.

For now though, it was great to meet a few of the players and coaches tonight and capture a few features.

Passion

Today I had the opportunity to meet and photograph MiJung Trepanier, a pianist. Talking to her it was evident that passion feels when she plays. She said playing made her feel alive, like every cell in her body was living. She practices a minimum of four hours a day, and when she has an upcoming performance practices stretch much longer. "I'm just so fortunate to play and to feel," she told me.

Professionals

During the first match shot at the Dow Corning Tennis Classic I was stressed trying to figure out how to shoot tennis. During the second, I loosened up, and in my third I tried to experiment with a few new angles. Sunday I hope I can put what I've learned into practice for the championship match.


In the three matches I've covered so far there hasn't been a whole lot of emotion. No cheers or tears. That may change during the championship match.

LOST?

I watched the very first episode of the first season of Lost on TV. I think I was hooked at the scene where the pilot gets ripped out of the plane and Jack, Kate and Charlie run for their lives through the jungle. Anyway, tonight has been a long time coming. Lost has lasted through my college years, and I'm a little sad that it will all be over this year. I'm sure you'll see another blog post come up when the final episode rolls around. Thanks Nathan and Kelly for having me over to kick off the final season!