Parking in Pasadena

Pasadena -- Lately, I've seen more and more bumper stickers around town shouting, "Pasadena Parking Sucks."

Although it is true, with more and more apartment building rising, adding density to our town, parking begins to be a problem. My suggestion: walk.

Pictured here is a rare opening found only on a late, Friday afternoon before the crowds.

Where it all started

Pasadena -- About this time in 1984, I purchased my first SLR at Flags Camera in Pasadena, CA.

I had taken a new job as an editorial assistant and photographer for a magazine publisher. I learned my craft from some of the best motorsports photographers there is. I also learned to love art, expressed through film. But most of all, I learned to use the camera to reach and connect with others.

For more than ten years, the Nikon FE2 was my go-to workhorse. Film of choice:  Kodachrome 64 and Tri-X 400. Two rolls of color and ten of the black and white would last an entire day of shooting; 432 frames. The best part is that you never know if you got the money shot until you get it back from te lab a day or two later.

Annie from the Pasadena Archives

Pasadena -- Hub Cap Annie was a local fixture. I took this photo in 2009.

Dance and Performing Arts Medicine

Pasadena - Evergreen Physical Therapy Specialists.

I am currently working on a project with Evergreen PT, shooting photos for their new website.

Pretty Woman

Pasadena -- A patient I ran across during a photo shoot at a physical therapy office.

Pasadena Under Moonlight

Pasadena -- Given the right conditions, a quick hike up the mountain at night--and a full moon--can pay off in dividends. 

The Avery Building

Pasadena Magazine has a good writeup on this architectural icon--I don't. All I know it that the building inspires me, especially on a beautiful, Spring afternoon.

I pass by the abandoned building every day while taking my son to school. Last Friday, I thought I would

How To Kill Two Birds

Pasadena -- Two weeks ago, a neighbor knocked on our door with a petition in hand. They were looking for participants in helping eliminate the incessant barking from another neighbor's dogs by getting the police involved. Although the barking is annoying, my wife had a better solution.

Our neighbors with the dogs don't have time during the day to walk their two, restless dogs. So, rather than the police removing the dogs, my son approached the neighbors and asked if he could walk their dogs everyday after school for a fair price. So now he spends 30 minutes a day, helping the dogs walk off their "barking."

The dogs are happy, the neighbors with the dogs are really happy, and my son is..., well happily employed.

Birdman of The Crown City

Pasadena -- He wears a crown of feathers, five of which he said he collected today.

I was stopped at a traffic light on my way home from work when I saw this gentleman walking his dog across the street. I put down the window, and yelled out to the smiling gent, "I love your hat--you've got quite a collection there!"

He stopped in his tracks and walked over to my car. The light was still red as I listened to his story. Then, the light turned green and I quickly asked if I could take his photo.

"Of course," he said without hesitation. "Oh, and my name is Duane; I work as a volunteer three days a week at City Hall and the Police department."

Commuters behind me knew what we were doing and displayed much-appreciated patience despite that the light had turned green some time earlier.

High School Football Season Begins

Pasadena -- I've never been a huge football fan. Oh sure, when the Superbowl comes around or rivals USC and UCLA battle it out on the field, I get into the game.

A few years ago, I started shooting for Maranatha High School in Pasadnea-- my nephew was on the football and baseball teams. He's since graduated from college, but now my 14-year old son is on the team and I am having a blast shooting the practices. His first scrimmage/game is Friday the 22nd. Go Minutemen!

My photos are at www.minutemenphoto.com

Pasadena Red Cars

Pasadena -- Yours Truly and wife Amber pose for a quick shot at the Pasadena Museum of History.

Merry Christmas Remembered

Pasadena, CA -- For the last decade or more, media, schools and other institutions have been substituting "Merry Christmas" for "Happy Holidays." We are told that by saying "Merry Christmas," it may offend those that may not recognize or celebrate Christmas. Yet I bet most that make that claim receive "Christmas presents."

I am now 52 years old and not once in my travels have I been asked not to mentioned the name Christmas. In fact, I go out of my way to say "Merry Christmas" to all strangers and business customers in Los Angeles.

This year in particular, I've noticed more and more department store employees using the salutation of "Merry Christmas." How refreshing! Those that do say "Happy Holidays," I will usually say "Merry Christmas" back or ask them what holiday they are referring to. In every instance so far..., they smile (as if I gave them permission), and say "Merry Christmas" back to me.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Food That Blooms

Pasadena -- While taking a walk last night, I came across a flowering artichoke. I don't think I've ever seen one before.

The Gatsby Girls

Pasadena at the Fenyes Estate Garden -- Before going to view The Great Gatsby at the movies, these adventurous ladies decided to dress the part and strike their best flapper pose.

Our Backyard

Santa Anita Canyon -- Los Angeles

Leaping Lizards!

Pasadena -- Another example of Spring being in the air

Mod Dog

Pasadena -- I used to be a Mod. I can "Spot" one a mile away...

Naked Tree Dives Head First into Trail

Pasadena, CA -- Every time I walk past this coast live oak tree, I chuckle.

Front Door Christmas Wreath

Trails To Scouting

Los Angeles -- Each year, our Troop offers an opportunity for younger Cub and Webelo Scouts to come out and see our program. Each patrol shows off their skills; cooking, knife, axe, camping and first aid are among the skills performed. Here, Scouts demonstrate how to make a sling from a neckerchief. Troop 4 of Pasadena is celebrating it's 100th consecutive year in scouting in 2013.