Photography with a “Smart” Phone The best camera is often the one we have with us - our smart phones. The quality and features are improving rapidly. How do you make the best use of this tool? We start with the basics of photography and then deal with the specifics of how to get the best photos possible. Download Notes (Word Doc): Download Word...

Words and Images by Mark Woodland When I’m asked about interesting travel destinations and I mention Iran the reaction is often, “you went to Iran?”. Granted it is not a typical country for Americans to visit. So how did this happen? Well I have a friend and coworker that has always wanted to go, but he knew getting a visa wouldn't be easy. He m...

When someone talks about seeing an alligator you would assume they are on a golf course in Florida or a bayou in Louisiana. My wife Cheryl and I were visiting Merchants Mill Pond State Park in North Carolina, and we were surprised to hear about a gator that had been reported there. I was also surprised that Cheryl took it as a mission to go find hi...

Ever find a roll of exposed film and not have a clue how long ago you shot it and what might be on it? I'm getting back into processing b&w film and found just such a roll of tri x 400 and decided to develop it. I was thrilled to find images of my grand daughter who is now 21 years old, which helped me to date it pretty accurately. Here's a favorit...

Words and Images by Mark Woodland Smoke filters through the thatched roof and begins its decent down the ridge. Seemingly in unison, clouds block the tropical sun's intensity and bring the promise of mist and rain. This weather phenomenon goes largely unnoticed by the Yalis: a post-cannibalistic tribe who live 8,000 feet up the steep slopes of t...