John Levandoski: Blog https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog en-us (C) John Levandoski (John Levandoski) Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:31:00 GMT Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:31:00 GMT https://www.johnlevandoski.com/img/s/v-12/u279212895-o532033385-50.jpg John Levandoski: Blog https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog 96 120 Eden Gardens State Park, Florida https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2021/8/eden-gardens-state-park-florida So I haven't done a blog post in a while mostly due to the pandemic and our lack of adventures and enthusiasm. Now we're getting back in the swing of things and I have some photos piling up. We're currently in the Florida panhandle near Panama City Beach, or PCB as it's known locally and just finished a 3 month job at Eden Gardens State Park working for Florida State Parks.

A view of the historic Wesley house in Eden Gardens State Park, Florida. Also showing azaleas bushes in bloom and live oak treesA view of the historic Wesley house in Eden Gardens State Park, Florida. Also showing azaleas bushes in bloom and live oak treesA view of the historic Wesley house in Eden Gardens State Park, Florida. Also showing azaleas bushes in bloom and live oak trees.

(A view of the historic Wesley house in Eden Gardens State Park, Florida. Also showing azaleas bushes in bloom and live oak trees)

This is our first time working for a state park system and our first time doing outdoor maintenance. It was really great living here and working to keep this place looking beautiful. Exploring the panhandle has been fun. There's a lot of state parks with beautiful white sand beaches and some great raw bars in the seaside communities if you're so inclined!

Marie & John in Eden Garden State Park, Florida, USAMarie & John in Eden Garden State Park, Florida, USA

(Marie & John in Eden Garden State Park, Florida, USA)

A high contrast black & white photo of a live oak tree covered with resurrection fern and Spanish moss in Florida, USAA high contrast black & white photo of a live oak tree covered with resurrection fern and Spanish moss in Florida, USAA high contrast black & white photo of a live oak tree covered with resurection fern and Spanish moss in Florida, USA

(A high contrast black & white photo of a live oak tree covered with resurrection fern and Spanish moss in Florida, USA)

Walking among these sprawling live oak trees gives a distinct feeling of awe knowing these trees range from 400 to 600 years old. And amazing as these trees look, finding photographs in them can be tricky. I only got a few keepers and this was my favorite. I love that it worked in black and white.

Check out my gallery on Eden Gardens State Park. It's under Parks in the header above.

Thanks for being here!

 

 

 

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(John Levandoski) antebellum architecture eden gardens florida florida state park gardens historic home john levandoski live oak trees photography travel trees https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2021/8/eden-gardens-state-park-florida Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:31:06 GMT
Monument Valley & Upper Antelope Canyon - Native American images from the Navajo Nation https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/11/monument-valley-upper-antelope-canyon---native-american-images-from-the-navajo-nation
Hello Everyone!
 
I've just added 11 new photos to my Native American / Navajo Gallery for a total of 16 photos. Nine of the images are from Monument Valley when we stopped there in April of 2019 on our way to Alaska. The other two are from Upper Antelope Slot Canyon when we stopped there in April of 2017 on our way to Yellowstone. Check them out and let me know which ones you like. Please feel free to share it with friends and family.
 
And I still have my Alaska 2021 calendar available for sale though there's not many left!
 
Thanks for being here and enjoy.
 
 
Dramatic evening light on a weathered tree in front of the West Mitten in Monument Valley, Arizona, USADramatic evening light on a weathered tree in front of the West Mitten in Monument Valley, Arizona, USADramatic evening light on a weathered tree in front of the West Mitten in Monument Valley, Arizona, USA
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(John Levandoski) americansouthwest apparitions john levandoski monument valley nativeamerican nature Navajo photography slot canyon southwestlandscapes travel upper antelope canyon https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/11/monument-valley-upper-antelope-canyon---native-american-images-from-the-navajo-nation Tue, 17 Nov 2020 20:38:39 GMT
Elk Rut, Benezette, Pennsylvania https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/11/elk-rut-benezette-pennsylvania
Hello Everyone!
 
This last fall I was fortunate to have spent a week in Elk County, PA to photograph the elk rut. I camped for a week in a tent and was up at 5:00am to drive to the hot spots for a parking spot. I shot about 380 photos, edited them down to 28 decent ones and created a gallery for you to view. Check them out and let me know which ones you like in the guest book. Please feel free to share it with friends and family.
 
 
And thanks for being here!
 
A bull elk bugles as he herds his cows back into the woods on a foggy morning during the elk rut in Benzette, PA, USAA bull elk bugles as he herds his cows back into the woods on a foggy morning during the elk rut in Benzette, PA, USAA bull elk bugles as he herds his cows back into the woods on a foggy morning during the elk rut.
 
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(John Levandoski) benezette pa benezette pennsylvania elk elk rut john levandoski nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/11/elk-rut-benezette-pennsylvania Tue, 17 Nov 2020 20:21:20 GMT
Alaska 2021 Calendar https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/10/alaska-2021-calendar I know I haven't posted in a bit, but that doesn't mean I haven't been thinking about you. There are a couple of drafts in my Blog and I'll get them out soon.

But in the meantime I am proud to offer my first fine art calendar. It's Alaska 2021! Made from photos taken during our summer there in 2019,  it's 30 images showcasing some of my best wildlife and landscapes.

Alaska 2021 Calendar CoverAlaska 2021 Calendar Cover

Price is $19.95 (plus s&h). The large calendar is 12x12 (12x24 opened), printed on thick premium paper stock with a matte finish and spiral bound. The mailer is a heavy duty, no bend kraft mailer so your calendar arrives safely. Order soon, only 50 will be made!

Click on the "Alaska Calendar" link in the toolbar. Click on any photo to order!

And thanks for being here!

 

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(John Levandoski) 2021 calendar alaska alaska 2021 alaska 2021 calendar alaska calendar caribou denali fine art john levandoski moose mount denali mount mckinley nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/10/alaska-2021-calendar Tue, 20 Oct 2020 20:55:38 GMT
Ducks On A Pond https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/9/ducks-on-a-pond This week I sold my first stock photo "Ducks On A Pond" through my stock agency Alamy.

To celebrate this I am offering 20% off any product with this image "Ducks On A Pond In Autumn" including canvas wraps, framed prints and prints. Use the code 'ducks' at checkout. Sale ends Friday 9/4/20 at midnight. You can find the image under Travel/Canada/Landscapes. (Sorry, it appears a link will not work in the blog post)

This image was taken in the Yukon Territory in Canada along the Alaska Highway. It was September 8th at what seemed to be the height of the fall foliage season. The mountains were ablaze in yellows and oranges and my head hurt from saying "Oh my God, look at that!" so much.

A photo stock agency is in the business of selling the licensing of photos to clients for their business needs such as magazine stories, travel brochures, puzzles, calendars, etc. The agency acquires the photos through their contracted contributors. Alamy is one of the largest stock agencies and has offices in London, NYC, Australia and India.

I signed up in March and I have only uploaded 188 images so far. I have a long way to go but this is a good sign. I have a lot more editing to do so I better get going.
 

Thanks for being here!

 

Ducks On A Pond In AutumnDucks On A Pond In AutumnDucks swimming on a pond along the Alaska Highwy in the fall in Yukon Territory, Canada.

Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4 lens @ 70mm, 1/50 @ f14, ISO320, Bogen tripod

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(John Levandoski) autumn autumn colors ducks ducks on a pond fall foliage john levandoski mountains nature photography travel wildlife Yukon Yukon Territory Canada https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/9/ducks-on-a-pond Wed, 02 Sep 2020 18:37:53 GMT
It's Good To Be Back! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/8/its-good-to-be-back Yes, it's good to be back to my old website again. I tried for a couple of years using two different sites because this one does that and that ones does this and so on. I'll just live with what I don't like about it because what I do like will make posting blogs and uploading photos easier.

And to celebrate I'm offering a special price on a 16x20 Canvas Gallery Wrap for $54.95! That's 20% off the regular price of $69.95. Any photo, any gallery Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday only! Check out my new Shop - Canvas Wraps, Framed Prints and Prints. Coming soon High Gloss Metal and Brushed Aluminum Photos!

A younger male bull moose slpashing in Horseshoe Lake, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA younger male bull moose slpashing in Horseshoe Lake, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA younger male bull moose slpashing in Horseshoe Lake, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

A cow moose close up with a beautiful winter coat and fall colors in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose close up with a beautiful winter coat and fall colors in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose close up with a beautiful winter coat and fall colors in Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

And as I'm writing this a mama black bear with two cubs stroll by my window! So I grabbed a camera, pointed it out the window and fired. Maybe they'll come back when I'm more prepared.

Thanks for being here!

Black Bear CubBlack Bear CubBlack Bear Cub

 

 

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(John Levandoski) bear black cub john levandoski moose nature photography wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/8/its-good-to-be-back Tue, 25 Aug 2020 23:46:49 GMT
Photography is an art that has to be... https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/5/photography-is-an-art-that-has-to-be photography is an artphotography is an artColorful fall tundra with a distant view of Mount Denali in the background in Alaska

This blog's cover photo is of Mount Denali with a verse I wrote around 2005 and appeared in the Susquehanna Museum of Harrisburg's show catalog about the same time. I find it true in my case and in many other photographers I have met.

A braided river in Denali National Park, Alaska with autumn colors copyA braided river in Denali National Park, Alaska with autumn colors copyA braided river in Denali National Park, Alaska with autumn colors

My journey starts with the discovery of a place I want to visit. Then I go into the planning stage learning about the landscape, wildlife, attraction or features that I hope will excite me and produce images that are forming in my head.

A gravel road through the autumn colored tundra vanishing into the mountains with Mount Denali-McKinley in the background copyA gravel road through the autumn colored tundra vanishing into the mountains with Mount Denali-McKinley in the background copyA gravel road through the autumn colored tundra vanishing into the mountains with Mount Denali-McKinley in the background

Then comes the actual drive to the location. This can take days or weeks and the intensity builds as I take in the changes in landscapes.

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(John Levandoski) alaska art denali john levandoski national park https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/5/photography-is-an-art-that-has-to-be Sat, 09 May 2020 19:30:00 GMT
Summer's cancelled so here's Valdez, Alaska https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/4/summers-cancelledso-here-s-valdez-alaska
Welcome To Valdez SignpostWelcome To Valdez SignpostWelcome To Valdez Signpost

Given the state of the world today our summer trip to Alaska is officially off. So I found some photos while in Valdez from early spring of last year to show you.

Valdez HarborValdez HarborKayaks and boats waiting in the Valdez harbor Alaska

We had a summer job scheduled on the Kenai Peninsula and drove from Florida to Las Cruces, NM. At that point the US/Canadian border closed. We knew we would never get there by our start date of 4/25 and cabin cancellations were already coming in. Getting back to PA and sitting this out near family and friends in our home area figured to be our best bet.

A Sea Otter Likes PosingA Sea Otter Likes PosingA sea otter swims up to our boat and likes posing for the camera in Valdez, AK.

Our manager is now expecting not to open until July, or maybe a few rentals in June if lucky. And most tours are closed until June 1st. Given this bleak situation and the long drive it would not be worth it to make the trip. So we're sitting this summer out and hoping for the best for everyone.

Sea Otters Chillin'Sea Otters Chillin'Sea otters chillin' in the water and on a piece of glacial ice from the Columbia Glacier in Valdez, Alaska.

The good news is that we have been invited back for next summer. And I do have a few big photo projects to keep me busy and I'll post some new work as I finish it.
 
In the meantime, here's some photos from Valdez, AK from our visit last year in mid May.
 
When you work in a tourist area you have to be there early to open up and get ready for the upcoming season. Therefore a lot of things are still closed. Stan Stephens' Cruises just opened up so we hopped on a glacier and wildlife tour. Nothing came from the glacier photos but I did manage some okay wildlife photos.
 
Sea otters were plentiful as we saw them as we were leaving the harbor and again out by the Columbia Glacier.
 
The otters weren't scared of the boat and even swam alongside posing for photos. Otters are the smallest of marine mammals but the largest of the weasel family. Most of the world's sea otters live in coastal Alaska.
 
Black Legged Kittiwake In FlightBlack Legged Kittiwake In FlightA black legged kittiwake in flight in Alaska
Birds were also flying around our boat. Though most did not fly close enough for photos, one black legged kittiwake came reasonably close enough. I only managed three photos and he was gone.
 
Kayaking Past Sea LionsKayaking Past Sea LionsKayakers paddle past sea lions in Alaska
The captain took us to see the steller sea lion colony at Bull Head. This is mostly a bachelor colony. While we were there a group of kayakers came by to make the photo more interesting.
 
Two Sea LionsTwo Sea LionsTwo sea lions posing on a rock ledge in Alaska.
It was really hard photographing from a rocking boat, especially without any sun and the wildlife far away. Hopefully I'll get another chance someday for another Alaskan wildlife and glacier tour.
 
Eagle Flying And Looking MeanEagle Flying And Looking MeanA mean looking eagle flying in Alaska
Back on land in Valdez I was able to find eagles flying around in search of dinner. Again the clouds blocked out the sun but you can never get enough practice photographing birds in motion.
 
Eagle And Snowy MountainEagle And Snowy MountainAn eagle soars past a snowy mountain in Alaska.
So after Valdez we headed to Denali where we spent the summer. You've seen the best of those photos in my previous blog posts so I think this will be my last post about Alaska. If I find any other good photos I'll be sure to share them with you.
And again, thanks for being here!
 
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(John Levandoski) black legged kittiwake eagles harbor john levandoski sea otters valdez alaska valdez sign wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/4/summers-cancelledso-here-s-valdez-alaska Wed, 08 Apr 2020 20:00:00 GMT
Great Blue Herons https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/2/great-blue-herons Ready For TakeoffReady For TakeoffA great blue heron readies for takeoff

As our winter season in Florida nears its end we've enjoyed a few kayak rides on the Silver River in Silver Springs State Park near Ocala.

Great Blue HeronGreat Blue HeronA great blue heron standing on one leg on a log

This year I saw more blue herons. Their are a little more skittish than the other birds and usually don't sit for very long when you're pointing a camera and big lens at them.

Great Blue Heron StandingGreat Blue Heron StandingA great blue heron standing with its neck half down on the Silver River in Florida

This guy was very patient though and so I dropped anchor and sat for a while.

 

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(John Levandoski) birds blue heron florida john levandoski nature photography silver springs travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2020/2/great-blue-herons Mon, 24 Feb 2020 21:15:00 GMT
Sign Post Forest, Watson Lake Yukon https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/12/sign-post-forest-watson-lake-yukon _001-Posing At The Sign Post Forest Entrance_001-Posing At The Sign Post Forest EntranceJohn & Marie Levandoski pose with their hometown sign at the sign post forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

Hello again! After a very busy time at home and traveling south to Florida I finally have some time for a post. On our road trip to Alaska, we stopped in Watson Lake Yukon Territory in Canada at the world famous Sign Post Forest to post a hometown sign. This is a must see stop on the famous Alaska-Canadian Highway.

_002-Mounting Their Hometown Sign_002-Mounting Their Hometown SignMounting their hometown sign at the Sign Post Forest In Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

The Alaska-Canadian Highway, Alcan for short, was built in 1942 by the US Army to provide a land route to Alaska at the start of World War II. It runs 1390 miles from Dawson Creek, Alberta, Canada to Delta Junction, AK, USA. It took only eight and a half months to build the road through some of the most desolate and rugged mountains in North America. Over 27,000 soldiers and civilians used over 7,000 pieces of equipment to build the highway.

_007-Rows Of Signs 2_007-Rows Of Signs 2Rows of signs at the sign post forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

Carl Lindley of Danville, IL, a soldier in the US Army, started the Sign Post Forest. Feeling a bit homesick while working on the highway, Lindley decided to add a sign for his hometown, with mileage, to a mileage signpost he was repairing. His idea caught on and other soldiers starting adding signs for their hometowns. When the road opened to the public in 1948, travelers and tourists started adding their hometown signs.

_004-Sign Counts At The Sign Post Forest_004-Sign Counts At The Sign Post ForestTwo recent sign counts at the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

Today there are over 80,000 signs posted in the forest. The town of Watson Lake maintains the forest. All the signs are counted at the end of every summer. More posts are added as needed and volunteers man the information center.

_006-Rows Of Signs_006-Rows Of SignsRows of signs at the sign post forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

There is every type of sign imaginable posted in the forest. We choose to have a license plate made with our hometown of Exeter on it in the old Exeter school colors of maroon and gold. We also spotted about a half dozen other signs from Pennsylvania, one as close and recognizable as Towanda.

_008-Towanda, PA_008-Towanda, PAA signpost in the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, Canada

You can read more about the highway at

https://www.themilepost.com/highways/alaska-highway/

https://www.bellsalaska.com/highway/alaska-highway/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Highway

Thanks for being here!

 

 

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(John Levandoski) canada john levandoski photography signpost forest travel yukon territory https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/12/sign-post-forest-watson-lake-yukon Sun, 08 Dec 2019 21:30:00 GMT
Denali Moose https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/11/denali-moose A cow moose and its yearling exchange a loving kiss in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose and its yearling exchange a loving kiss in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose and its yearling exchange a loving kiss in Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

Towards the end of August and in September the moose in Denali National Park start gathering in the front country of the park for the rut which happens during the middle and end of September. Though I was hoping for some big bull photos, it was mostly the cows that that showed up before I left the area on September third.
 
Photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8, 1/500th @ f4, ISO 800, Bogen tripod
 
A moose yearling stops and poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose yearling stops and poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose yearling stops and poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USA
Even so, it was very exciting to see these great Alaska moose with their beautiful fall coats and in prime condition. With each visit I was able to get some good shots and on one visit I had a male caribou pose for me.
 
Photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8, 1/500th @ f4, ISO 800, Bogen tripod
 
A cow moose wades in a pond to get a drink in Denali National Park in Alaska copyA cow moose wades in a pond to get a drink in Denali National Park in Alaska copyA cow moose wades in a pond to get a drink in Denali National Park in Alaska.
This cow moose was out by the road. I hoped she would make her way to this little pond and waited at least a half hour til she started her way there. Patience paid off as she stood in the water and drank.
 
Photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8, 1/800th @ f7.1, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
 
A cow moose reflects in a pond as she walks along its edge in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA cow moose reflects in a pond as she walks along its edge in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA cow moose reflects in a pond as she walks along its edge in Denali National Park, Alaska
As she walked along the edge her reflection appeared in the pond.
 
Photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8, 1/640th @ f6.3, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
 
A mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska
Her and her yearling grazing along the pond.
 
Hopefully I'll get back there again and find those big bull Denali moose. Until then I'll be happy with these. Thanks for being here!
 
Photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8, 1/640th @ f6.3, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
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(John Levandoski) alaska denali national park john levandoski moose moose kissing moose yearling national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/11/denali-moose Mon, 11 Nov 2019 21:45:00 GMT
Alaska Highway With Fall Foliage https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/alaska-highway-with-fall-foliage Alaska Highway With Fall ColorsAlaska Highway With Fall ColorsA stretch of the Alaska Highway with fall colors and a blue sky in the Yukon Territory, Canada.

We're on our way back from Alaska and the fall colors and scenery along the way are just spectacular! For four days the drive was just the most magnificent I've ever seen. If I stopped to take all the photos I wanted we would probably still be way up north.

Ducks On A Pond In AutumnDucks On A Pond In AutumnDucks swimming on a pond along the Alaska Highwy in the fall in Yukon Territory, Canada.

I won't get into a lot of details except these were all taken on the Alaska Highway in the Yukon Territory between Beaver Creek and Whitehorse.

Fall Colors In The YukonFall Colors In The YukonA burst of fall colors along the Alaskan Highway just south of Beaver Creek, Yukon, Canada.

This drive through the Yukon Territory has been one of the most exhilarating rides and photo experiences I've ever had, and I've had a lot. I would love to spend a month just driving up and down the highway photographing the fall foliage.

Donjek River ViewDonjek River ViewA view of the St. Elias Mountains with fall foliage along the Donjek River in Yukon Territory, Canada.

This was the view outside our door as we camped along the Donjek River. It was iffy and tight for a big 5th wheel but we made it happen.
 
I hope these inspire you to take a ride and take some fall scenery photos yourself. It's good medicine.
 
Thanks again for being here and best wishes.
 
photo info:
photo 1 - Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4 lens @ 120mm, 1/100 @ f14, ISO250, handheld
photo 2 - Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4 lens @ 70mm, 1/50 @ f14, ISO320, Bogen tripod
photo 3 - Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4 lens @ 38mm, 1/40 @ f16, ISO200, Bogen tripod
photo 4 - Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4 lens @ 82mm, 1/40 @ f20, ISO160, Bogen tripod
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska highway autumn canada fall foliage john levandoski nature photography travel yukon territory https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/alaska-highway-with-fall-foliage Tue, 24 Sep 2019 21:00:00 GMT
Another 5* Alaskan Adventure! Alaskan Bear Viewing! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/another-5-alaskan-adventure-alaskan-bear-viewing A brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USAA brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USAA brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USA

When you come to Alaska you want to see bears. You want to get some good bear photos. And the best way to do that is on a bear viewing tour. We book one for Crescent Lake in Lake Clark Natl. Park. You take off and land on lakes in a float plane! It's a big thing here.

Gassing UpGassing UpGassing up a float plane to go bear viewing in Alaska

So while they're gassing it up they need one more person to steer and they pick Marie! Just kidding, though she did get to sit up front and ride shotgun.

Co-pilot MarieCo-pilot MarieMarie Levandoski sits in the co-pilot seat of a float plane in Alaska

A bear viewing tour boat with tourists on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA bear viewing tour boat with tourists on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA bear viewing tour boat with tourists on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

After landing we cruise around in boats on teal colored glacial fed lakes surrounded by gorgeous mountains and glaciers looking for bears. The guides are very experienced and know where the bears like to hang out.

A brown bear splashing in water while fishing for salmon at Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA brown bear splashing in water while fishing for salmon at Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA brown bear splashing in water while fishing for salmon at Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

We were on the water less than five minutes when we spotted this brown bear catching salmon and splashing in the water. He was fixed on the salmon and couldn't care less about us as we came to 15 to 20 yards from him.

A brown bear with a salmon in his mouth on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA brown bear with a salmon in his mouth on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA brown bear with a salmon in his mouth on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

After a few attempts he caught his dinner. We watched him catch a couple more salmon before he went off for a nap.

A black bear on rocks along the shore of Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA black bear on rocks along the shore of Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA black bear on rocks along the shore of Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

We saw 8 brown bears and 1 black bear. This black bear walked along the shore for about 30 yards posing for a few photos before he made his way into the woods.

A group of tourists bear viewing from a boat on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA group of tourists bear viewing from a boat on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA group of tourists bear viewing from a boat on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

The heart pounds and the adrenaline flows hot while 20 - 25 yards away a brown bear lifts his head and looks you in the eye. Then he just goes back to fishing!

A mother brown bear feds her cub a piece of salmon on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA mother brown bear feds her cub a piece of salmon on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAA mother brown bear feds her cub a piece of salmon on Crescent Lake in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

We also got to watch a mother bear teaching her cub to pull the dead salmon out of the lake for a meal.

A brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USAA brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USAA brown bear cub along the shore of Crescent Lake getting himself messy with salmon in Lake Clark Natl Park, Alaska, USA

This Alaska bear got salmon all over himself while learning what he needs to survive in Alaska. Cute but I wouldn't get too close.

An aerial view Chigmit Mountains of the Aleutian Range in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAAn aerial view Chigmit Mountains of the Aleutian Range in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USAAn aerial view Chigmit Mountains of the Aleutian Range in Lake Clark NP, Alaska, USA

On the way back we flew over the Alaska Range mountains with 2 active volcanoes. You could see the steam coming off the lava right next to the glaciers.

Dan & JeremyDan & JeremyBear viewing guides with Talon Air Dan & Jeremy

A team photo of our guides Dan and Jeremy. Our boat had Jeremy.
 
Now it's back to Denali and the start of the moose rut!
 
Photo - Gassing up; Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4, zoom @ 85mm, 1/320 @ f8, ISO 160, handheld
Photo - Marie the co-pilot; Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4, zoom @ 31mm, 1/320 @ f7.1, ISO 640 (3 stops under exposed, adjusted in Lightroom), handheld
Photo - boat on lake; Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4, zoom @ 31mm, 1/400 @ f11, ISO 400, handheld
Photo - makes a splash; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 180mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 270mm, 1/640 @ f8, ISO 320, handheld
Photo - with salmon dinner; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 200mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 300mm, 1/640 @ f8, ISO 320, handheld
Photo - black bear; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 105mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 157.5mm, 1/400 @ f5.6, ISO 640, handheld
Photo - group of tourists; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 200mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 300, 1/640 @ f6.3, ISO 640, handheld
Photo - mother brown bear; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 150mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 225, 1/1250 @ f8, ISO 400, handheld
Photo - bear cub; Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, zoom at 200mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 300, 1/1250 @ f8, ISO 400, handheld
Photo - Alaska Range; Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4, zoom @ 120mm, 1/250 @ f10, ISO 400, handheld
Photo - Dan & Jeremy; Nikon D800E, Nikon 24-120mm f4, zoom @ 24mm, 1/160 @ f6.3, ISO 1600, handheld, Program mode, Live view
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska bear viewing black bear brown bear brown bear cub john levandoski nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/another-5-alaskan-adventure-alaskan-bear-viewing Thu, 12 Sep 2019 21:45:00 GMT
Awesome Northern Lights! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/awesome-northern-lights Northern Lights Light Up The SkyNorthern Lights Light Up The SkyNorthern Lights light up the sky in Healy, Alaska

Last night we got to witness our first Northern Lights display and it was fabulous! We were staying at The Denali RV Park & Motel in Healy, Alaska. This park is eight miles north of Denali Natl. Park.

Northern Lights In A ParkNorthern Lights In A ParkThe Northern Lights light up the sky in a park in Healy, Alaska.

A local person said it is rare to get the reds and purples this far south.

Northern Lights In An RV ParkNorthern Lights In An RV ParkNorthern Lights in an RV Park in Healy, Alaska

Our 5th wheel RV with the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights, FlamesNorthern Lights, FlamesThe Northern Lights form a flame like pattern in the sky in Healy, Alaska.

You could actually see them dancing and moving in the sky. The day was cloudy and smoky and we had our doubts about seeing them. We were prepared to drive north. But as the sun was setting the sky cleared out. Everything was in place including the electrons and protons for a spectacular display. Seeing the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis was on our to do list while here in Alaska but we never expected the show we saw.
 
We have just a few more days left here in Alaska. But I have a couple of more posts coming this week before we leave.
 
Thanks for being here!
 
Photo info; all photos - Nikon D800E, Nikon 10.5mm f2.8 lens, 2/3 sensor setting, 1 sec @ f4, ISO 1600, Bogen tripod
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska aroura borealis john levandoski nature northern lights photo blog photography travel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/9/awesome-northern-lights Sun, 01 Sep 2019 14:00:00 GMT
End Of Season https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/end-of-season An old Alaska train car that's now a hotel room for the Denali Park Hotel in Healy, AlaskaAn old Alaska train car that's now a hotel room for the Denali Park Hotel in Healy, AlaskaAn old Alaska train car that's now a hotel room for the Denali Park Hotel in Healy, Alaska

It's a short summer in Alaska! Monday the 19th was our last day of work. Crowds are gone, temps are dropping, water hoses are starting to freeze and there's termination dust on the peaks (that means snow on the mountain tops!). Though there's business, there's not enough for a full staff.

Fall Meadow And Mount DenaliFall Meadow And Mount DenaliA fall meadow in the foothills of Mount Denali

Leaves and grasses are turning into their fall colors. This is a view of Mount Denali from the George Parks Highway, State Rt 3, mile marker 126.9.

A mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA mother moose and yearling eat and drink at a watering hole in Denali National Park, Alaska

The moose are gathering at their breeding grounds and the rut starts very soon. We'll come back in early September to get some more photos. We have a few weeks to play around before we have to get out. So I guess we'll go catch a late salmon run and watch the bears fish!
 
Thanks for being here!
 
Top photo: Nikon D7000, Nikon 18-105mm f3.5-5.6 lens, lens @ 62mm, 1/320th @ f11, ISO 200, handheld
 
Middle photo; Nikon D7000, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8, zoom @ 110mm, 2/3 sensor effective zoom 165mm, 1/60th @ f16, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
 
Bottom photo: Nikon D800E, Nikon 400mm f2.8 lens, 1/640th @ f6.3, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska alaskan landscape cow moose fall in alaska john levandoski landscape moose moose yearling mount denali nature photography train car train car as hotel travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/end-of-season Sat, 31 Aug 2019 14:30:00 GMT
Happy Birthday Woodstock! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/happy-birthday-woodstock Sly "Higher" © John LevandoskiSly "Higher" © John Levandoski

Happy Birthday Woodstock! First off, I didn't go to Woodstock. I was 14 years old and going into the 9th grade. I hadn't a clue about stuff like that. Fourteen year olds didn't run off to 3 day music festivals back then. When I started buying records a couple of years later the Woodstock performers were a major influence on my purchases.

I went to see Sly & The Family Stone with my classmate Gerry Newman. He asked me if I would mind if his little brother came along. Since he had his parents car and was driving I said no. His little brother was Gregg, with whom I immediately formed a lifelong and endearing friendship with.

My parents lent me their Kodak 126 Instamatic camera. It had a plastic lens, took a 126 drop-in film cartridge and rotating flashcubes on top. After the concert I took my film to 8th Street Camera in West Wyoming for developing. How exciting it was to have photos of Sly Stone taking us higher! My photo career was born.

CSN Ⓒ John LevandoskiCSN Ⓒ John Levandoski

I've seen CSN & CSN&Y. Whenever I hear Suite: Judy Blue Eyes I remember back to how "scared shitless" these guys were when they appeared at Woodstock. They have become one of my all time favorites.

Jorma @ Station Ⓒ John LevandoskiJorma @ Station Ⓒ John Levandoski

My first concert and introduction to "morning maniac music" was The Jefferson Airplane. It was 1970 or '71 at the Kingston Armory. I went with Donald Klaproth, Tom Civiletti, Edie D'Iorio and (I believe) Rose & Jean Mikoloychik. Grace was pregnant, there was a funny smell in the air and I became a "Volunteer" in the army of peace and love! Thanks Jorma!

Santana © John LevandoskiSantana © John Levandoski

I'm pretty sure I saw Santana with friends Cindy Janosky and Tom Bindus. I don't have press passes so I'm regularly trying to sneak my camera in. I used a Nikon FE camera and a Nikon 135mm f2.8 lens. I shot in aperture priority at f2.8. The highest ISO film at the time was 400. I would shoot it at 1200 and develop it for 800 and hope for the best.

Alvin Lee 2Alvin Lee 2

During the mid 80's, the Station Complex in Wilkes-Barre, PA hosted shows featuring musicians from the 60's and 70's. It was a small intimate club and there wasn't a bad seat in the house. I loved attending these shows but it was extremely hard to photograph because there was usually only one or two spotlights.

Alvin LeeAlvin LeeAlvin Lee playing harmonica in a small nightclub circa 1984.

But when Alvin Lee burns up the fret board with "I'm Going Home" no more than 50 feet away from you it's all good!

Johnny WinterJohnny WinterJohnny Winter jamming at The Station in Wilkes-Barre, PA circa 1984.

There were a lot more musicians that played at Woodstock than were on the album or in the movie and Johnny Winter was one of them. He was also joined by his brother Edgar Winter for their version of Tobacco Road.

Edgar WinterEdgar WinterEdgar Winter jamming at The Station in Wilkes-Barre, PA circa 1984.
Going to concerts was a big part of my younger years. Music was everything. It still is. I spend hours making playlists for this and for that. And every now and then I get to a concert, sometimes with my camera and sometimes not. I always hear a tune in my head and feel my toes a tappin'.
 
So a big thank you to Max Yasgur and all the musicians that played the weekend at the first festival, Woodstock.
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(John Levandoski) concert edgar John Levandoski music n-roll photos rock- rock music winter woodstock performer https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/happy-birthday-woodstock Thu, 15 Aug 2019 19:15:00 GMT
Our True Alaskan Experience in 10 Easy Steps! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/our-true-alaskan-experience-in-10-easy-steps Denali Highway EastwardDenali Highway EastwardA view of the mountains and gravel road of the Denali Highway Rt8, Alaska

Last week we had our true Alaskan experience and here's how we did it in 10 easy steps.
 
1. Drive 90 miles down a gravel road into the heart of the backcountry. This is State Rt8, the Denali Hwy, which actually is a main secondary road.
 
Alaska Range ViewAlaska Range ViewAn Alaska Range view of Mount Deborah and Hess and the Susitna River Valley.
2. Encounter breathtaking views, glaciers, mountains and rivers.
 
Maclaren River Lodge SignMaclaren River Lodge SignMaclaren River Lodge Sign
3. Arrive at the Maclaren River Lodge (in the middle of nowhere).
 
John & Marie, Maclaren RiverJohn & Marie, Maclaren RiverJohn & Marie Levandoski on a john boat with camping gear on the Maclaren River in Alaska.
4. Hire a jon boat to take you, your camping gear and kayaks 10 miles up river (more nowhere!) to a remote backcountry wilderness camp.
 
Maclaren Backcountry CampMaclaren Backcountry CampThe Maclaren River Lodge backcountry camp.
5. Pick a tent and move in.
 
Mount Maclaren And GlacierMount Maclaren And GlacierView of snow covered Mount Maclaren and the Maclaren glacier from 5 miles away.
6. Enjoy your surroundings and the view of Mount Maclaren and the Maclaren Glacier. It's a five mile hike to the glacier.
 
Community Tent, Maclaren Backcountry CampCommunity Tent, Maclaren Backcountry CampA community tent at the Maclaren Lodge Backcountry Camp, Alaska.
7. Visit the community tent.
 
Outhouse With A ViewOuthouse With A ViewThe outhouse with a great view of Mount Maclaren and the glacier at the Maclaren Lodge Backcountry Camp, Alaska.
8. Check out the outhouse with a view.
 
Maclaren CampfireMaclaren CampfireA campfire in the Maclaren fire ring in their backcountry camp, Alaska.
9. Relax around the evening campfire. Yes, this is an evening photo. Remember it doesn't get dark up here in the summer!
 
Marie Kayaking The Maclaren RiverMarie Kayaking The Maclaren RiverMarie kayaks the glacier fed Maclaren River in Alaska with jet rocket contrails in the sky.
10. The next day kayak the river back to the lodge! The Maclaren River is glacial fed. All the water comes from the melting glacier. It is cold and very dense with silt. It is also fast moving, about 5-6 miles / hour. It is not deep and braided, meaning it branches out into many little fingers or braids. Avoid the sand bars if you can but getting stuck just happens.
 
The rocket contrails in the sky are from the air force jets. They practice here and when they break the sound barrier there is a loud Ba-boom! The first one is scary.
 
Back at the lodge we had lunch and then started back on the 90 mile gravel road back to our little patch of civilization, which we thought was in the middle of nowhere before this Alaska camping and kayaking trip .
 
Thanks for being here!
 
Photo info: Nikon D7000, Nikon 18-105mm f3.5-5.6 lens, all handheld.
 
Photos of Marie and I and Marie on the river: iPhone 6S.
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska backcountry camping backcountry kayaking john levandoski landscapes maclaren glacier maclaren lodge maclaren river nature outhouse photo blog photography travel travel blog https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/our-true-alaskan-experience-in-10-easy-steps Fri, 09 Aug 2019 14:45:00 GMT
Denali Wildflower Photography-Woolly Lousewort https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/denali-wildflower-photography-woolly-lousewort Woolly LousewortWoolly Lousewortwoolly lousewort in bloom, Denali, Alaska

Well I'm really glad I was here for the spring and summer in Denali, Alaska for the wildflower bloom. This takes place in June and July and I have never seen so many flowers. This is a woolly lousewort and I love the color in this one.
 
Photo info: Nikon D800E full frame camera, Nikon 105mm f2.8 micro lens - this lens is from the mid to late 90's film era, 1/200th @ f5.6, ISO 100, Bogen tripod
 
A prickly rose wildflower climbs up a tree in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA prickly rose wildflower climbs up a tree in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA prickly rose wildflower climbs up a tree in Denali National Park, Alaska, USA
Here's a Prickly Rose climbing a tree along the Horseshoe Lake Trail.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 17-55mm f2.8 @ 31mm, 1/100 @ f5.6, ISO 160, Bogen tripod
 
Canadian Dogwood With BeeCanadian Dogwood With BeeA bee lands on canadian dogwood wildflowers blooming in the spring in Denali Natl Park, Alaska
A bee lands on Canadian Dogwood wildflowers blooming in the spring in Denali, Alaska
 
The abundance of wildflowers made it exciting to do this type of photography again. I haven't shot macro flowers in probably in 30 years!
 
Thanks for being here!
 
Photo info: Nikon D800E full frame camera, Nikon 105mm f2.8 micro lens - this lens is from the mid to late 90's film era, 1/50 @ f16, ISO 100, Bogen tripod, Photoflex light diffuser
 
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska canadian dogwood denali john levandoski macro photography national park nature photography prickly rose travel wildflower photography woolly loosewort https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/8/denali-wildflower-photography-woolly-lousewort Fri, 02 Aug 2019 15:00:00 GMT
Denali National Park - Spring Caribou Photos https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-national-park---spring-caribou-photos Wary CaribouWary CaribouA lone caribou keeps a wary eye on a bus load of tourists in Denali Natl Park, Alaska

I thought I should show you some caribou photos from Denali National Park. But since I got here they have been shedding their winter coat and are just now starting to grow their new winter coat so they don't look their best yet. Hopefully later in August or September we'll get to see some fall foliage and trophy racks.
 
And yes, they are also called reindeer! But reindeer refers to the farmed caribou.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, handheld from transit bus, zoom @190mm, 1/640th @f4.5, ISO 200
Caribou Grazing In The SpringCaribou Grazing In The SpringCaribou grazing in the springtime in Denali Natl Park, Alaska.
This photo was taken just before Memorial Day.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens, handheld from transit bus, zoom @ 185mm. 1/1250th @ f8, ISO 320.
 
Two Caribou Crossing RiverTwo Caribou Crossing RiverTwo caribou crossing the Savage River in Denali Natl Park, Alaska.
Two bull caribou cross the Savage River in Denali Natl Park, Alaska near the bridge and parking lot. This photo was taken June 16th. Their coats are still rough. It will be two more months before they are getting their pretty winter coats.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm, 1/1000th @ f4.5, ISO 640, Bogen tripod. The 400mm lens on this camera gives an effective lens of 600mm.
 
Thanks for being here with me!
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska caribou caribou crossing river denali national park john levandoski national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-national-park---spring-caribou-photos Fri, 26 Jul 2019 18:30:00 GMT
Denali Moose Portrait https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-moose-portrait A moose poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose poses for a portrait in Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

One evening while I was leaving the park I spotted this female moose munching on the willows. I watched her for about 30 minutes and got this close up moose photo. She heard my camera click from the previous photo and then looked right at me.

 

Photo: Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens @ 200mm, 1/500th @ f4, ISO 1600, handheld

Close up of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAClose up of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAClose up of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

A few photos of her eating.

 

Close up profile of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAClose up profile of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAClose up profile of a cow moose eating leaves from a tree in a rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

Both photos: Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens @ 200mm, 1/500th @ f4, ISO 1600, handheld

A cow moose facing camera but with head turned left in rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose facing camera but with head turned left in rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA cow moose facing camera but with head turned left in rugged spring coat, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

And a side ways turn of the head.

Photo: Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens @ 175mm, 1/500th @ f4, ISO 1600, handheld

Thanks for being here!

 

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(John Levandoski) alaska john levandoski moose national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-moose-portrait Fri, 19 Jul 2019 18:45:00 GMT
Denali Baby Moose https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-baby-moose A moose calf jumping and splashing along Riley Creek In Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose calf jumping and splashing along Riley Creek In Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose calf jumping and splashing along Riley Creek In Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

Moose are big animals and are big here in Alaska. You can see them in parks, along the roads and even in the city of Anchorage. They provide many photo opportunities for the tourists and professional photographers and a freezer full of meat for the hunters and those living in the back country.

Three moose calves lying on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAThree moose calves lying on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAThree moose calves lying on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

So there's all this talk of a mother moose with three calves hanging around the entrance to the park. I'm going down there every two or three days as time allows hoping for some photos. I really want all four of them down by the creek with the sun setting and mom and one calf nose to nose posing just for me, hoping that's not asking for too much. And almost everyone in Denali has seen them but me.

Three moose calves on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAThree moose calves on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAThree moose calves on a patch of ground in the middle of Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

One evening as I come around the corner to the park I see the bridge full of people and cars parked all over. I know what that means! It's a moose jam!

Two moose calves crossing Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves crossing Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves crossing Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USA

I hurriedly park my truck and run to take a look. It's them. Grabbing some gear I head out to the middle of the bridge. There's three calves laying in the grass and mom is on the other side of the creek feeding.

Two moose calves along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USA

I didn't get the image I wanted of all four of them but I did get some of just the calves by themselves.

Two moose calves strike a curious pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves strike a curious pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USATwo moose calves strike a curious pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska., USA

About one and half hours later they all got up and went into the woods. How odd I thought that they didn't wait there for their mother. A glance to my left and I spotted the reason. A big grizzly was making his way across the highway and into the woods in their direction. I'm glad they got to live another day.

A moose calf strikes a beautiful pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose calf strikes a beautiful pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USAA moose calf strikes a beautiful pose along Riley Creek, Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

Thanks for being here!

 

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(John Levandoski) alaska baby moose denali national park john levandoski moose calves moose in denali national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/denali-baby-moose Sat, 13 Jul 2019 19:00:00 GMT
Mount Denali, "The High One" https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/mount-denali-the-high-one Mt Denali rises above the clouds and surrounding mountains from mile 12 in Denali Natl Park, Alaska copyMt Denali rises above the clouds and surrounding mountains from mile 12 in Denali Natl Park, Alaska copyMt Denali rises above the clouds and surrounding mountains from mile 12 in Denali Natl Park, Alaska.

Denali translates into "The High One" in the native Athabascan language. It rises 20,310 feet above sea level, making it the highest peak in North America. This measurement was taken with newer computer equipment as compared with older measurements of 20,320 feet. It was also called Mount McKinley for over a hundred years, named after William McKinley our 25th president, though most Alaskans always called it Denali.
 
In these photos it is the peak on the left.
 
Photo: June 17, 2019 9:38 pm, Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm f2.8 lens, effective crop 600mm, 1/320th @ f10, ISO 100, Bogen tripod
 
The top of Denali is barely visible behind the clouds in Denali Natl Park, Alaska copyThe top of Denali is barely visible behind the clouds in Denali Natl Park, Alaska copyThe top of Denali is barely visible behind the clouds in Denali Natl Park, Alaska.
Here's another view on a clearer day. Only about 30% of the people that come to Denali Natl. Park get to see the whole mountain! The park was officially formed on February 26th, 1917 as Mount McKinley Natl. Park, among lots of local criticism for 98 years. In 2015 President Obama renamed the mountain and park to Denali.
 
These two photos were taken approximately from mile 10 on the park road. The public can drive the first 15 miles. To go further you must take one of the transit buses.
 
Photo: May 22nd, 2019 9:57 am, Nikon D7500, Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens @ 190mm, 1/1250th @ f9, ISO 400, Bogen tripod
 
There's so much to photograph here I'm having photo overload! Next week I'll post some wildlife... or maybe some wildflowers! See you then.
 
Thanks for being here!
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska denali national park john levandoski mount denali national park nature photography travel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/7/mount-denali-the-high-one Thu, 04 Jul 2019 19:15:00 GMT
Denali National Park & My First Grizzly! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/6/denali-national-park-my-first-grizzly
A grizzly bear hunts for roots to dig up for his meal in the spring in Denali Natl. Park, Alask copyA grizzly bear hunts for roots to dig up for his meal in the spring in Denali Natl. Park, Alask copyA grizzly bear hunts for roots to dig up in the spring in Denali Natl. Park, AK.

Our first visit was beary good! 😆 This guy showed up along this still frozen creek for three days in a row and we luckily got to see him on the third evening.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm f2.8 G, ED-IF, AF-S, VR lens, 1/1000th @ f5.6, ISO 400, Bogen tripod
 
A grizzly bear strolls along on the snow in Denali National Park copyA grizzly bear strolls along on the snow in Denali National Park copyA grizzly bear strolls along on the snow in Denali National Park.
He would go into the brush and dig up roots to eat while occasionally looking at the crowd watching him and taking photos.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm f2.8 G, ED-IF, AF-S, VR lens, 1/1000th @ f5.6, ISO 200, Bogen tripod
 
A grizzly bear walks on a snow patch in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA grizzly bear walks on a snow patch in Denali National Park, Alaska copyA grizzly bear walks on a snow patch in Denali National Park, Alaska
After crossing the snow and ice he started coming towards the road and a crowd of onlookers. I never saw a group of tourists clear out so fast.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm f2.8 G, ED-IF, AF-S, VR lens,1/1000th @ f6.3, ISO 400, Bogen tripod.
 
A grizzly bear meanders through young pine trees and brush searching for food_ copyA grizzly bear meanders through young pine trees and brush searching for food_ copyA grizzly bear meanders through young pine trees and brush searching for food
After this shot he was too close as we all jumped in our vehicles. He then turned and went into the woods. It was an exciting night and I got a few good photos.
 
Nikon D7500, Nikon 400mm f2.8 G, ED-IF, AF-S, VR lens,1/800th @ f5.6, ISO 400, Bogen tripod.
 
Thanks for being here!
 
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(John Levandoski) alaska bear denali national park grizzly bear john levandoski national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/6/denali-national-park-my-first-grizzly Sat, 01 Jun 2019 19:30:00 GMT
We Made It! Denali RV Park & Motel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/we-made-it-denali-rv-park-motel Marie and John Levandoski at Denali RV Park and Motel in Denali, AKMarie and John Levandoski at Denali RV Park and Motel in Denali, AKMarie and John Levandoski at Denali RV Park and Motel in Denali, AK

We made it! After 49 days, 7700 miles, 2 flat tires, 1 brake assembly and 4 forever friends, Sara & Jarrod Ross and Bob & Bonnie Freshette, we reach our summer workamping destination at Denali RV Park & Motel.

Marie puts our Alaska State Sticker on our mapMarie puts our Alaska State Sticker on our mapMarie puts our Alaska State Sticker on our map.

Marie finally gets to put the Alaska sticker on our map.

We have a few days to settle in before we start work so we'll start to explore the area and go into the park soon.

Thanks for being here!

 

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(John Levandoski) alaska denali john levandoski nature photography travel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/we-made-it-denali-rv-park-motel Thu, 30 May 2019 20:30:00 GMT
Alaska Bound-The Border https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/alaska-bound-the-border A group of travelers posing at the "Welcome to Alaska" sign at the Canadian-Alaska borderA group of travelers posing at the "Welcome to Alaska" sign at the Canadian-Alaska borderA group of travelers posing at the "Welcome to Alaska" sign at the Canadian-Alaska border

The Alaska Bound group makes it to the border! A sigh of relief as we are back in the USA. We can now buy gas again in gallons instead of liters.

 

International kissInternational kissInternational kiss

An "International Kiss"! Marie is in Alaska, USA and I am still in Canada! The Alaska-Canadian border is 1538 miles long and is totally unfortified.

Plaque At The Alaskian  Canadian BorderPlaque At The Alaskian Canadian BorderPlaque At The Alaskian Canadian Border

After entering Alaska we spend a couple of nights in Tok and then head to Valdez via the Richardson Hwy.

Wrangell Mountains From The Richrdson HwyWrangell Mountains From The Richrdson HwyA view of the Wrangell Mountains from the Richardson Hwy in Alaska.

This is a view of the Richardson Hwy with the Wrangell Mountains. This is another area with gorgeous views around every corner. At times in the highest mountains it felt very lonely and isolated.

John & Marie with RV at Bridal Veil Falls on the Richardson Hwy before Valdez, AlaskaJohn & Marie with RV at Bridal Veil Falls on the Richardson Hwy before Valdez, AlaskaJohn & Marie with RV at Bridal Veil Falls on the Richardson Hwy before Valdez, Alaska

As we got close to Valdez the scenery was incredible. One minute we're at the top of snowy mountains with glaciers and then we're at gorgeous waterfalls and green mountainsides.

A lot of the businesses in Valdez weren't open yet but we managed to find a glacier tour and enough stores to keep us occupied for a few days. Now it's on to Denali.

 

Thanks for being here!

 

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(John Levandoski) alaska alaska canadian border john levandoski photography richardson highway travel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/alaska-bound-the-border Mon, 27 May 2019 18:45:00 GMT
Alaska Bound 7 - Along The Alcan Highway https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/alaska-bound-7---along-the-alcan-highway A young stone sheep along the side of the Alaskan Highway in northern British Columbia, CanadaA young stone sheep along the side of the Alaskan Highway in northern British Columbia, CanadaA young stone sheep along the side of the Alaskan Highway in northern British Columbia, Canada

As we drive along we come across some stone sheep on the roadway. They come down to lick the salt off the road surface that remains after salting and cindering the roads.

Stone Sheep eating salt off the road on the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, CanadaStone Sheep eating salt off the road on the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, CanadaStone Sheep eating salt off the road on the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, Canada

The young and females barely move and you have to drive around them.

A male stone sheep poses for a photo along the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, CanadaA male stone sheep poses for a photo along the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, CanadaA male stone sheep poses for a photo along the Alaskan Highway in British Columbia, Canada  

But the rams are more cautious and will leave the road and run for cover if you get to close.
 
These photos were taken with my Nikon D7500 and a Nikon 300mm f4 AF-D lens on a tripod. The lens is a '90's film lens and does not have Vibration Reduction.
 
flat tireflat tire
So on the highest point of the Alcan Hwy we stop for the night because it's snowing, getting cold and dark and up ahead is an 8⁒ downhill grade. I wake up the next morning with a flat tire. Somewhere I picked up a nail. It's 24℉ and I had to chop the ice away to get the jack under the axle. To answer your question "why didn't I just call AAA", there's no cell service and town is two hours either direction and some towns listed on the map aren't open yet or even have a garage! I had the tire changed, checked air pressure on our whole rig and our friends and was back on the road in under 1.5 hours. Could have been worse!
 
St Elias Range MountainsSt Elias Range MountainsMorning view of the St Elias Range along the Alcan Highway between Destruction Bay and Burwash Landing in the Yukon Territory, Canada.
So here's my reward for the flat tire! Miles and miles of gorgeous and breathtaking scenery!
 
Thanks for being here!
 
Above photo: Nikon D7500, Nikon 17-55mm f2.8 lens @ 38mm, 1/15th @ f16, ISO160, Bogen tripod, Hoya HMC polarizing filter
 
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(John Levandoski) canada canadian landscape john levandoski kluane national park national park nature photography stone sheep travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/alaska-bound-7---along-the-alcan-highway Fri, 17 May 2019 19:15:00 GMT
Calgary, Banff Natl Park & Dawson Creek https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/calgary-banff-natl-park-the-alaska-hwy Welcome to Alberta sign, Coutts crossing, CanadaWelcome to Alberta sign, Coutts crossing, CanadaWelcome to Alberta sign, Coutts crossing, Canada

I'm driving at 100 kilometers per hour, it's -1 degree Celsius and the cashier wants to know if I want any loonies or toonies!!! WHAAATTT!!! We're not in the USA anymore Toto!

 
Welcome to Alberta, Canada and the Great White North! Eh! This post is from our travels the last week of April.
 
 
A large can of Canada's Tim Hortons original blend coffee on a stove topA large can of Canada's Tim Hortons original blend coffee on a stove topA large can of Canada's Tim Hortons original blend coffee on a stove top
 
And when in Canada, do as a Canadian would... have a cup of Tim Hortons in the morning, the unofficial official brand of coffee!
 
 
Canadian maple leaf flag blowing in a snow storm at Beaver Dam Golf & RV Resort in Madden, Alberta, CanadaCanadian maple leaf flag blowing in a snow storm at Beaver Dam Golf & RV Resort in Madden, Alberta, CanadaCanadian maple leaf flag blowing in a snow storm at Beaver Dam Golf & RV Resort in Madden, Alberta, Canada
 
It's the last few days of April and we're just north of Calgary and hunkered down for a blizzard. 1/2 mile visibility, sideways snow all day and in the mid 20's.
 
 
An RV covered in snow and iceAn RV covered in snow and iceAn RV covered in snow and ice
 
We can't even put our Alberta sticker on the map!
 
 
GMC truck with kayaks in front of RV's in a snow stormGMC truck with kayaks in front of RV's in a snow stormGMC truck with kayaks in front of RV's in a snow storm
 
Because of the blizzard a lot of sightseeing is cut short.
 
 
Banff sign, Alberta, CanadaBanff sign, Alberta, CanadaBanff sign, Alberta, Canada
 
 
We do get to visit Banff for a short day. The town of Banff is very quaint with a lot of chalet style buildings giving it a European feel.
 
 
A view of Mount Rundle reflecting in Vermillion Lakes in the foreground, Banff National Park, Alberta, CanadaA view of Mount Rundle reflecting in Vermillion Lakes in the foreground, Banff National Park, Alberta, CanadaA view of Mount Rundle reflecting in Vermillion Lakes in the foreground, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
 
It's still very early in the season which makes for some great photos and hardly any crowds.
 
 
Despite the thin ice warning people walk on a frozen Lake Louise in Banff Natl Park, Alberta, CanadaDespite the thin ice warning people walk on a frozen Lake Louise in Banff Natl Park, Alberta, CanadaDespite the thin ice warning people walk on a frozen Lake Louise in Banff Natl Park, Alberta, Canada
 
Some lakes are still frozen and not everything is open. But how frozen are they? Ask the guy who fell through last week! This is Lake Louise.
 
A Canadian-Pacific train rolls along the Kootenay River in Banff Natl Park,A Canadian-Pacific train rolls along the Kootenay River in Banff Natl Park,A Canadian-Pacific train rolls along the Kootenay River in Banff Natl Park,
 
The snow capped mountains look great in the spring, especially with a Canadian-Pacific train rolling through.
 
Elk grazing while snowing in Banff National Park, Alberta, CanadaElk grazing while snowing in Banff National Park, Alberta, CanadaElk grazing while snowing in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
 
A bull elk starts to shed his winter coat and grow some antlers while grazing along the road.
 
 
A group of Alaska bound travelers pose at the start of the Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, CanadaA group of Alaska bound travelers pose at the start of the Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, CanadaA group of Alaska bound travelers pose at the start of the Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada
 
After Calgary and Banff we headed north to Dawson Creek and the start of the Alaska Highway. When we get there it is still cold and snowing.
 
The Alcan as it is known, is 1,390 miles long and connects Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada with Delta Junction, Alaska, USA. The highway was started in March 1942. Its intent was to have an inland route to Alaska for the military for the protection of North America. It was officially opened to the public in 1948.
 
So here we go!!!
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(John Levandoski) alaskan highway banff dawson creek elk john levandoski national park nature photography travel wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/calgary-banff-natl-park-the-alaska-hwy Fri, 10 May 2019 18:30:00 GMT
Yellowstone & Our 3rd Alaska Bound couple https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/yellowstone-our-3rd-alaska-bound-couple A group of Alaska bound travelers stop at the Yellowstone National Park sign for a photoA group of Alaska bound travelers stop at the Yellowstone National Park sign for a photoA group of Alaska bound travelers stop at the Yellowstone National Park sign for a photo So we made it to West Yellowstone and picked up our third traveling couple Sara & Jarrod Ross. This young couple is so very dear to us. This is going to be our fourth summer in a row workamping together and we have shared many adventures and some really great food together. All six of us met and worked together in Yellowstone the summer of 2016 and that is how this caravan has come together.

 

wild west pizzawild west pizza This photo shows us six and our friends that are still working in Yellowstone. It is such a dynamic place and leaves an imprint of a special family that forever stays in your heart and soul.

 

Three bison profiles in a row grazing in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USAThree bison profiles in a row grazing in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USAThree bison profiles in a row grazing in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA Nothing would be complete without a ride into the park to see some bison. These three were part of a small herd grazing along the Madison River.

 
Nikon D7500, 400mm f2.8 lens, 1/640 @ f4.5, ISO 320, tripod
 
 
Grand Prismatic hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, USAGrand Prismatic hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, USAGrand Prismatic hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, USA
The Grand Prismatic hot spring never disappoints. The trail to the overlook was closed because of bear activity. That shot will just have to wait until next time.
 
Nikon D7500, 17-55mm f2.8 lens @ 19mm, 1/500th @ f11, ISO 100, tripod
 
 
Vixen Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, USAVixen Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, USAVixen Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone has over 10,000 thermal features which is about 25% of the thermal features in the world. You'll never photograph them all but you can always add a few more to your collection. During a walk through the Norris Geyser Basin I came upon Vixen Geyser looking like it could be from the moon or Mars.
 
Nikon D7500, 17-55mm f2.8 lens @ 17mm, 1/125 @ f14, ISO 100
 
From here we head to Bozeman, Shelby and then the Canadian border and on to Calgary. My blog is a bit behind our actual trip because of time and very limited cell service and data restrictions in the remote areas we are driving through. But we'll catch up soon. Thanks for being here and we'll see you soon.
 
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(John Levandoski) bison buffalo grand prismatic john levandoski national park nature photography travel vixen geyser wildlife yellowstone yellowstone national park https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2019/5/yellowstone-our-3rd-alaska-bound-couple Wed, 01 May 2019 21:15:00 GMT
Program titled "Living, Working and Photographing in Yellowstone" https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/6/program-titled-living-working-and-photographing-in-yellowstone Living, Working & PhotographingLiving, Working & Photographing

 

So after spending two summers workamping in Yellowstone I have put together a one hour program titled "Living, Working and Photographing In Yellowstone" to share my experience. I can also talk about the workamping experience and how it can relate to a retirement option to make it a two hour program.

I have a few dates available in NEPA in Sept. and early October. It is a very informative program for photo clubs and associations or your civic minded or other groups.

Also, I will be in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas from November through March for available dates.

Send me a private message for further details.

See you soon.

 

UPDATE: 11/28/18
So we ended up booking six dates in September. Three camera clubs, two professional associations and a community college. Most presentations went from 1.5 to 2 hours. For one group I even talked for two days, about 3 to 4 hours each day!

Yellowstone Presentation-041Yellowstone Presentation-041John Levandoski gives a presentation about Yellowstone.

A big thanks goes out to Jim Gavenus and Mark James for booking the Luzerne County Community College presentation.

Yellowstone Presentation-037Yellowstone Presentation-037John Levandoski gives a presentation about Yellowstone.

https://www.timesleader.com/features/720953/local-photographer-john-levandoski-presents-lecture-at-lccc

 

We talked more in depth about Yellowstone, photography and the workamping lifestyle.

 

Yellowstone Presentation-7431Yellowstone Presentation-7431

Here I'm showing a group the workamper.com website. Everyone is very intrigued about how we find these jobs all over the country. If you're interested in joining the website, use code AMB2236 for 6 FREE months!

Yellowstone Presentation-7416Yellowstone Presentation-7416

 

And another big thanks goes to Bruce Dart who helped book us for three clubs. Bruce has been a photographer his whole life and is a leader in his home community and the photographic industry in PA. I'm proud to call him a friend.

Again, we're available to all types of clubs and organizations. We may even be available to campgrounds as we travel.

Thanks to all that attended, bought calendars and made us feel welcomed and gave us such great feedback.

John and Marie Levandoski

 

 

 

 

 

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(John Levandoski) john levandoski national park nature photography RV Blog travel wildlife workamping yellowstone https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/6/program-titled-living-working-and-photographing-in-yellowstone Sat, 23 Jun 2018 01:10:55 GMT
Guest on a podcast by Jarrod Ross https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/6/guest-on-a-podcast-by-jarrod-ross
This week I was a guest on a podcast by Jarrod Ross. He and Sara Passios Ross were two of the first people we met in Yellowstone in 2016 and we are now spending our 3rd fabulous summer with them. They inspire us with their zest for adventure and have become a major part of our workamper family. Enjoy the podcast!
 

Episode II - Wanderers: Life on the Road
Finding Inspiration while Wonkamping in Yellowstone NP

This week I spoke with (semi) retired photographer John Levandoski. John and his wife Marie were two of the first friends we made working in Yellowstone National Park. I talk to John about transitioning into RV living after 30 years in the photography business, how retirement snuck up on him, and the benefits of living on the road. We also took time to discuss how the opportunity to workamp in Yellowstone National Park and its natural beauty brought a renewed inspiration to his personal artwork.

itunes.apple.com
 
Download past episodes or subscribe to future episodes of…
 
 
 
 
 
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(John Levandoski) finding inspiration jarrod ross john levandoski life on the road national park photo photography travel wanderers workampers workamping https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/6/guest-on-a-podcast-by-jarrod-ross Mon, 18 Jun 2018 00:12:41 GMT
Another Season Workamping https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/4/another-season-workamping Sunset In TucsonSunset In TucsonSunset in Tucson, AZ taken from the Coronado Ntl Forest

 

The sun has set on another workamping season. This photo was taken in Tucson, AZ where we spent the winter workamping at Far Horizons Resort for Cal-Am Resorts. This was our first time in the activities department and also working at a resort. Our job details included setting up and tearing down for the different events and activities, bartending, cooking and/or serving food and making sure our residents were taken care of.

 

John Frying PancakesJohn Frying PancakesJohn & Earl frying pancakes for the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at Far Horizons Resort in Tucson, AZ.

Here's me and Earl, another workamper, frying pancakes for an all you can eat breakfast. I would cook and Marie would serve.

 

Marie BartendingMarie BartendingMarie pours a beer for a resident during happy hour at Far Horizons Resort In Tucson, AZ.

 

And here Marie's pouring a beer at happy hour. We served the Wednesday night hour. There was also one on Monday and Friday. They were all poolside with a band and free to the residents. Needless to say there was usually a big crowd.

 

John At The SoundboardJohn At The SoundboardJohn works the soundboard for the Sunday Morning Social program.

 

I also got to work the soundboard for some Sunday morning socials. Working in a busy resort gave us the opportunity to work many different jobs.

 

untitled butterflyuntitled butterflyuntitled butterfly

 

Our resort had a photo club and I just had to partake of the activities. We had a few photo shoot day trips which were a lot of fun. This unidentified butterfly was from a trip to the Tucson Botanical Gardens. These butterflies were in a greenhouse type building that was extremely humid and fogged my lens and glasses when I walked in. I kept cleaning them for ten minutes before they stayed clear. For these photos I used my Nikon D7000 and my Nikkor 105mm f2.8 AF-D micro lens. This is a mid-late nineties film lens. This image was shot handheld at ISO 640, 1/200th at f6.3. There's more butterflies in the Tucson gallery under Travel.

 

Far Horizons Foto Fun Club, Botanical GardensFar Horizons Foto Fun Club, Botanical GardensFar Horizons Foto Fun Club at Tucson Botanical Gardens, 03/13/18

 

Here's the group that went to the Botanical Gardens. Obviously these ladies like to have fun and I joined right in. It was nice being in a photo club again and sharing images and ideas.

 

Ukulele BandUkulele BandJohn plays in the ukulele band recital at Far Horizons Resort in Tucson, AZ.

The resort also offers free ukulele lessons. This was so much fun. We weren't really following music so everyone sang along as we strummed. At the end of the season we gave a recital at the Wednesday morning manager's meeting. There's a 10 sec video on my FB page; 

https://www.facebook.com/john.levandoski.5

 

Well now we're on our way to our summer workamping job at Cape Cod Maple RV Park and Campground in MA and looking forward to a great summer. We're so grateful for all of the wonderful experiences we have had since we started workamping. Every season is a new adventure and pushes our boundaries in a new direction. Every day is a new learning experience.

 

I'll leave you with this photo of a super moon rising behind a saguaro cactus. Best wishes to all of you and see you soon!

 

Super Moon & Saguaro CactusSuper Moon & Saguaro CactusA super moon rises behind a Saguaro cactus in the Coronado Ntl Forest near Tucson, AZ on New Years Day 2018

 

 

 

 

 

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(John Levandoski) john levandoski photography workamping workamping in tucson az https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/4/another-season-workamping Sun, 08 Apr 2018 01:44:45 GMT
Ghost Town Ruby, AZ https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/3/ghost-town-ruby-az Ruby, AZ Town SignRuby, AZ Town SignThe Ruby, AZ mining ghost town sign.

 

Recently I had the privilege to to lead our photo club on an adventure to the ghost town of Ruby, AZ. This photo club is based in a 55+ retirement/snowbird park in Tucson, AZ. I mention this because I was the youngest at 63 years old and there were some mixed reviews about visiting Ruby. I admit now that I was a bit nervous about taking this group there. But I've been photographing old ghost towns for 20 years so I had to go and it was on their list of possibilities.

 

Travel Caution Sign, Ruby, AZTravel Caution Sign, Ruby, AZA travel caution sign along the dirt road to Ruby, AZ, a mining ghost town.

Ruby is in the middle of nowhere. It is 12 miles from Arivaca, a small town with a general store, bar/restaurant, an art gallery, a humanitarian aid office and a coffee shop on the outskirts of town. About 6 of those 12 miles are down a dusty dirt road, 4 miles from the Mexican border with little or no cell service. The border patrol had a very heavy presence, as would be expected after seeing the sign above.

 

Bookshelf, Ruby Schoolhouse, AZBookshelf, Ruby Schoolhouse, AZAn old bookshelf in the one room schoolhouse in the old mining ghostown of Ruby, AZ.

 

After checking in with Michael the caretaker, we took off on our search for images. The old schoolhouse probably had the most opportunity with the classroom, an old piano, the sliding board and more to aim our cameras at.

 

Old Worn Out Keys, Ruby Schoolhouse, AZOld Worn Out Keys, Ruby Schoolhouse, AZOld worn out piano keys of the piano at Ruby Ghost Town, AZ.

 

As I drive to these out of the way places in my air conditioned, 4x4 pickup truck, I wonder what would possess someone to come way out here, probably on a mule, and start digging. But mining and these mining towns are what built up the western part of our country. Railroads and fortune seekers followed. As the towns prospered their populations grew. Businesses opened.

 

Children's Sliding Board, Ruby, AZChildren's Sliding Board, Ruby, AZThe children's sliding board outside the schoolhouse in the old mining ghost town of Ruby, AZ.

 

And then the mines run out. A slow exodus follows. People leave what they can't carry. It's picked through by the people still there and then by gypsies and thieves looking for something to cash in for a quick buck. What's left eventually rots away and is reclaimed by nature.

 

Ruby Ghost Truck, AZRuby Ghost Truck, AZAn old Ford dump truck sits rusting along the dirt road into Ruby, AZ.

 

Ruby is on private property and they are trying to make a tourist destination out of it. I saw about 30 visitors there that day counting the 12 of us. The website is quite modern and somewhat up to date. I called the phone number to get a group rate but a message stated they would not return calls. The caretaker said he couldn't oblige us with that request. The only other discrepancy was the condition of the restrooms and the gate wasn't opened until almost 10:00. I think the restrooms are the original outhouses from the early 1900's, but the ladies in our group didn't complain at all. Bring your own paper unless you like using an old Sears catalog.

 

Ruby Bunkhouse, AZRuby Bunkhouse, AZRemains of old bunkhouses in Ruby Mining Ghost Town, AZ.

 

All in all our adventure to Ruby was a great day. We had a good lunch at the Cow Palace in Amado and there were some nice images shown at our next photo club meeting. I certainly wouldn't mind making another trip to Ruby, maybe later in the day to get a different light.

 

Ruby Mercantile, AZRuby Mercantile, AZ

 

For this trip I used my Nikon D7000 with the Nikon 18-105 f3.5-5.6 G ED and a Bogen 055XB tripod with a 3047 head. On the piano keys photo I used a Nikon 105 f2.8 D AF micro lens. This is a mid-late 90's film lens. All images are shot in camera RAW format, then converted to Adobe DNG files and then edited in Lightroom.

 

The Beach At Ruby, AZThe Beach At Ruby, AZ"The beach" at Ruby mining ghost town, AZ.

 

Thanks for taking the time to read my post. If you are interested in purchasing any photos, use this one time code " Ruby " for a 20% discount on any Ruby image.

See ya soon.

 

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(John Levandoski) art az ghost towns az mining towns fine art ghost towns john levandoski mining towns photography ruby az travel https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/3/ghost-town-ruby-az Wed, 07 Mar 2018 20:35:10 GMT
Happy Birthday Yellowstone! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/3/happy-birthday-yellowstone Morning Glory Pool, YellowstoneMorning Glory Pool, Yellowstone

 

Happy Birthday Yellowstone! In honor of Yellowstone National Park's 146th birthday today I'm offering a 14.6% discount on all prints for today only from my Yellowstone gallery. Enter discount code Happy 146 at checkout.

It was such an awesome experience spending two summers working there. Hopefully we'll be able to return for a summer again someday.

Feel free to contact me with any questions. Thanks!

 

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(John Levandoski) fine art john levandoski national park nature photography print sale travel wildlife yellowstone https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/3/happy-birthday-yellowstone Thu, 01 Mar 2018 07:01:00 GMT
It's a Super-Blue-Blood Moon! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/1/its-a-super-blue-blood-moon The alarm is set for 3:00 am. Coffee is on the timer so it will be ready when I crawl out of a nice warm bed. Camera, lens and tripod are ready. This morning we'll have the opportunity to witness a rare lunar eclipse. One that hasn't been seen since March 31,1866, 152 years ago. It's going to be a Super Blue Blood Moon!

 

Super-Blue MoonSuper-Blue MoonA super blue moon soon to become a super-blue-blood moon. Photographed in Tucson, AZ on 01/31/18.

 

We start with the super blue moon. It's super because at this time the moon is in it's closest position to Earth. It looks larger and is brighter. It's called a blue moon because it's the second full moon this month. The moon does not have any blue color to it. This usually only happens about once every two or three years. And this is where we get the phrase "once in a blue moon".

 

First Quarter Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseFirst Quarter Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseThe Earth's shadow starts to creep across the super-blue moon. When complete, it will be a super-blue-blood moon. Photographed in Tucson, AZ on 01/31/18.

 

As we're watching the super blue moon, the lunar eclipse starts. This is when the earth's shadow from the sun crosses the moon. This type of eclipse can occur up to three or four times a year depending on your location.

 

Half Of Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseHalf Of Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseThe Earth's creeps across the super-blue moon. When complete, it will be a super-blue-blood moon. Photographed in Tucson, AZ on 01/31/18.

 

It took approximately one hour for the shadow to completely cross the moon.

 

Last Quarter Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseLast Quarter Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseThe Earth's creeps across the super-blue moon. When complete, it will be a super-blue-blood moon. Photographed in Tucson, AZ on 01/31/18.

 

Once the moon is completely in the shadow of Earth it takes on the reddish color. This is where it gets the name "blood moon" and is applied to all lunar eclipses today.

 

Super-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseSuper-Blue-Blood Moon EclipseA rare super-blue-blood moon lunar eclipse. Photographed in Tucson, AZ on 01/31/18.

 

The blood moon photo has had no color adjustments to enhance the red color. Though I did make some minor adjustments to sharpness, clarity, contrast and shadows, the color is how it came out of the camera. The montage was put together in photoshop. I used a Nikon D800E with a Sigma 150-600mm f6.3 Sport Edition on a tripod.

 

montage super-blue-blood moon eclipsemontage super-blue-blood moon eclipse

 

I hope you enjoyed this little photo essay on the super blue blood moon as much as I enjoyed photographing it. The next one visible in the U.S. will be January 31, 2037. At 82 years old, I don't know if I'll be able to lift the big lens anymore but I'll try! Workamping in Tucson, AZ put us in the right place at the right time for this experience.

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(John Levandoski) blood moon blue moon john levandoski lunar eclipse super blue blood moon super moon https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2018/1/its-a-super-blue-blood-moon Wed, 31 Jan 2018 19:06:12 GMT
Gettin' Some Booty(s) From Old Mexico https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/12/booty-s-from-old-mexico Since we're workamping in Tucson, AZ for the winter, we couldn't resist the temptation to go to Mexico and see what the hoopla is all about. We heard about cheap dentists, pharmacies, leather goods, knickknacks and more. And yes, we also heard about the drug smuggling and human trafficking that goes on around these border towns. Some research told us to stay on the main tourist streets during daylight hours. So we got together with another couple and headed south to the border.

 

 

Nogales Letters Sign, Nogales, MexicoNogales Letters Sign, Nogales, MexicoNogales spelled out in large letters in the park.

 

Our point of entry was Nogales. The town was split by the border so there is a Nogales in the U.S. and Mexico. We parked in the U.S. at Ed's for $5.00 a day and walked across the border. Ed's had a lot of good reviews and it was the first lot we came to. Crossing the border was easy, no questions asked and no one to ask them.

 

Buses, Nogales, MexicoBuses, Nogales, MexicoBuses parked on the street in Nogales, Mexico

You could easily see why they call it "Old Mexico". The bus in the above photo is the public transportation bus. Buildings are old, stores are closed and there are holes in the sidewalk. A lot of merchants stand outside and try to sell you right from the sidewalk, even yelling from across the street.

Coca-Cola Light, aka Diet Coke, In A Bottle, Nogales, MexicoCoca-Cola Light, aka Diet Coke, In A Bottle, Nogales, MexicoTourist drinking a Coca-Cola Light, aka Diet Coke, from a bottle in Nogales, Mexico, December 2017.

Another warning was to not drink the water which includes ice in your margaritas. We found a nice looking restaurant at the Olivia Hotel in the middle of that district. We ordered bottled drinks and Marie's Diet Coke was a Coca-Cola Light in a bottle. We haven't seen Coke in a bottle for quite some time. The fish tacos were great but the tostadas had way too much lettuce on them. Even a rabbit couldn't have eaten it all. But all in all, it was good and we would eat there again.

Pro Photo Express Sign, Nogales, MexicoPro Photo Express Sign, Nogales, MexicoAn old Kodak sign, Pro Photo Express, hangs on Avenida Obregon street in Nogales, Mexico. December 2017.

Being a semi-retired photographer and having owned a camera shop, I got a big kick out of the old Kodak signs still hanging around town. This first one was at a small wedding studio. They had some very nice framed portraits hanging on display. I think that camera on the sign looks like a Mamiya 645.

Street Scene With Kodak Sign, Nogales, MexicoStreet Scene With Kodak Sign, Nogales, MexicoAn old Kodak sign hangs on Avenida Obregon street in Nogales, Mexico. December 2017.

We were warned there may be lines when crossing back to the U.S. so we planned on getting there early. We finished our shopping and headed back. Our time in line was about a half an hour, from 3:30 to 4:00. Entry was easy, just showing your passport to the agent and if he asks, just tell him what you bought. At no time during our trip did we feel we were in any type of danger. Naturally though, being in a foreign country with such a reputation we were very cautious.

Booty(s) From MexicoBooty(s) From MexicoTourists show off the Mexican boots they got in Nogales, Mexico.

Here's us back in the U.S. after "gettin' some booty(s) in Old Mexico". We both bought a pair of leather boots at a great price. There are a number of boot stores with good prices. We also got some tequila at a good price. But here in Tucson the grocery stores have sales on hard liquor. On sale, prices are about the same. We couldn't communicate with the liquor merchant because of language. Personally, I'll leave the dentists and pharmacies for someone else. We had a really great experience and now we can say we did it. With such a great price on boots and tacos, maybe we'll go back for more. And yes, that is "the wall" behind us.

Thanks for reading and we'll see you soon.

 

 

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(John Levandoski) border crossing john levandoski kodak mexico nogales signs the wall travel travel destination https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/12/booty-s-from-old-mexico Fri, 29 Dec 2017 21:42:06 GMT
Workamping in Tucson, Winter 2017/18 https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/12/workamping-in-tucson-winter-2017/18 After a while on the road from Yellowstone, WY to PA and from PA to AZ, we're finally settled in Tucson, AZ  for the winter working for Far Horizons Resort in Tucson, AZ. Far Horizons is a 55+ community with mostly snowbirds and a lot of perks and activities for the residents. We work in the activities department and are always setting up or taking down for the many different clubs and groups. After a month, it's a great place to live and work.

Tucson is certainly different from Yellowstone. We've gone from two to twelve lane highways and traded bears, bison and thermal features for stores, casinos and shopping plazas. A good point is that a pizza isn't an hour away.

The first photo is us serving up dinner at the welcome back party. Hard work but somebody's gotta do it. Also there are photos of the pool area and the lobby.

The last photo is a Saguaro cactus at sunset in Saguaro Ntl Park, just 8 miles away. So we'll be working on some cactus photos over the season.

See you soon.

 

Workamping, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZ, 12/17Workamping, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZ, 12/17John & Marie serving up the "Welcome Back" dinner at Far Horizons RV Resort, Tucson, AZ.

Pool Area, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZPool Area, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZThe pool area at Far Horizons Resort, Tucson, AZ at sunset.

Lobby, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZLobby, Far Horizons, Tucson, AZThe lobby at Far Horizons Resort in Tucson, AZ

 

Saguaro Cactus At Sunset 1Saguaro Cactus At Sunset 1

 

 

 

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(John Levandoski) john levandoski landscape national park nature photography rv resort travel workamping https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/12/workamping-in-tucson-winter-2017/18 Fri, 29 Dec 2017 01:42:00 GMT
Elk Rut In Yellowstone https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/9/elk-rut-in-Yellowstone Elk Rut #1, YellowstoneElk Rut #1, YellowstoneA bull elk appproaches a cow during the September rut in Yellowstone

It's September. As we sit around the campfire with a million stars above you can hear the elk bugling off in the distance. September is the rut or mating season here in Yellowstone.  As soon as the sun goes down they start and continue until morning. This bull has a harem of at least six cows that I can see and about four yearlings.

 

Elk Rut #2, YellowstoneElk Rut #2, YellowstoneA bull elk gets close to a female during the rut in Yellowstone

 

The bulls bugle to challenge other bulls for the females and then engage in battle for dominance. The stronger bull gains access to the females while the loser wanders off usually only hurting his pride. Calves are born in the spring, usually May and June, and are walking within an hour.

 

Young Elk Eating GrassesYoung Elk Eating GrassesA young female elk with her winter coat eating grasses in Yellowstone Rocky Mountains in the spring

 

During the summer there are between 10,000 and 20,000 elk in Yellowstone but less than 5,000 in winter. Because snowfall and colder temperatures make food scarce the elk migrate to lower elevations to find better food sources.

 

Bull Elk, Cow And Yearlings, YellowstoneBull Elk, Cow And Yearlings, YellowstoneA bull elk watches as 3 yearlings run and a cow grazes during the rut in Yellowstone.

 

The bulls have antlers which start growing in the spring and fall off in March or April. They are usually symmetrical and are the biggest when a bull is between eleven and twelve years old. The bulls with large antlers are one of the most photographed animals in Yellowstone.

 

Bull Elk In An Autumn Field, YellowstoneBull Elk In An Autumn Field, YellowstoneA bull elk stands majestically in an autumn field in Yellowstone.

 

Well, the campfire's out and the stars are fading under the brightness of the moon so I guess I'll leave you with this tip; bring a few extra memory cards and a long, long lens when coming to Yellowstone.

 

Thanks for taking the time to read my travel blog and I wish you the best!

 

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(John Levandoski) art bull elk elk elk rut fine art john levandoski national park nature photo blog rv blog travel blog wildlife wildlife photography yellowstone https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/9/elk-rut-in-Yellowstone Sat, 23 Sep 2017 21:12:31 GMT
And the Raven says "Here comes an Eagle!" https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/5/and-the-raven-says-here-comes-an-eagle We've been in Yellowstone four days and there's an Elk carcass about a quarter mile from our campground. There's ravens, eagles and a coyote getting their fill of protein. And that's the pecking order. The eagles chase away the ravens and the coyote chases away the eagles. There's two score of photographers with big lenses waiting patiently for the next one up the pecking order, the grizzly bear. He doesn't show tonight but we'll be there bright and early the next morning with a new memory card and hopes of more excitement and great images. The Raven Cries "Here Comes An Eagle"The Raven Cries "Here Comes An Eagle" Hunting Bald EagleHunting Bald Eagle Juvenile Bald Eagle Moving InJuvenile Bald Eagle Moving In Coyote Moving InCoyote Moving In

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(John Levandoski) John Levandoski RV blog Yellowstone coyotes eagles fine art national park nature snow wildlife https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/5/and-the-raven-says-here-comes-an-eagle Sun, 07 May 2017 05:35:56 GMT
Yellowstone 2017 & Sale https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/5/yellowstone-2017-sale We are very excited to be starting our 2nd year working in Yellowstone National Park. Seeing last years friends, majestic mountains and magnificent wildlife makes us feel blessed and lucky to be here.

I am also reopening my website www.johnlevandoski.com for displaying my photo work and the sale of my images. To kick this off I am offering 25% off any order from my Yellowstone National Park images until 5/14/17. Use the code " Yellowstone 2017 " at checkout. You can find the images under " Fine Art ". Feel free to contact me with any questions. Thanks.

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(John Levandoski) John Levandoski RV Blog fine art grizzly bear sale wildlife yellowstone https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/5/yellowstone-2017-sale Tue, 02 May 2017 02:18:09 GMT
Adios Amigos! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/4/adios-amigos Adios Amigos! We're saying goodbye to our friends at The Mustang Hollow CG (photo below) in South Texas and heading to Yellowstone NP for another season there. Our first stop is San Antonio and then on to The Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce. We also hope to see the slot canyons of Page AZ and Lake Powell.

Best wishes to everyone!

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(John Levandoski) John Levandoski RV Blog clouds lake landscapes palm photos sunset travel trees https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2017/4/adios-amigos Sun, 02 Apr 2017 22:20:16 GMT
Thank You https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2015/6/thank-you

 

After approximately 38 years in the photography business I am closing and retiring. I am extremely grateful for the patronage and everything everyone has done for me. I couldn't have done it without you. It has been a wonderful life and career.

 

Hopefully my future life will be just as exciting. My wife and I bought an RV, are selling the house and plan to travel and work in our National Parks. We are awfully excited about this and hope to be working at The Grand Canyon next summer. Everyone is telling me I'll still be taking photos so this will be the place to find them, under Blogs and special galleries in my Portfolio page. We welcome you to follow our adventures here on my new blog and website and soon to be Facebook page.

 

If anyone would like their files, at no charge, please contact me at 570-283-0795 by July 6th, 2015. Also I have some of my b&w art available for sale at retirement prices along with studio gear for photographers and hobbyists.

 

Once again, thank you and hope to see you here. And please stay in touch.

 

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(John Levandoski) John Levandoski RV RV Blog art blog camera camera pro fine art gear national park pro sale thank you https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2015/6/thank-you Sun, 28 Jun 2015 23:36:55 GMT
Fine Art Sale! https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2015/2/fine-art-sale

Call John Levandoski @ Camera Pro Studio for more information 570-283-0795.

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(John Levandoski) art fine john levandoski photography sale https://www.johnlevandoski.com/blog/2015/2/fine-art-sale Mon, 09 Feb 2015 18:48:40 GMT