Could it be any worse with torrential downpours and record heat waves all over the country? I think my best friends these days will be ones with boats and lots of libations.

I think one of the things that I relish the most as I have matured as a person and a photographer is that fact that I have slowed down (no pun intended) and started to look more closely at all of my surroundings. I am not sure if is a curse or a blessing to have a photographers eye because I never leave home without it. Nor do I ever leave home without my cameras. No wonder that the Outer Banks have become one of my favorite spots to shoot. There is beauty everywhere you turn.

While shooting with a model on the island this past weekend I kept noticing a group of flower next to the sea fences. As the sun sets in behind them, they began to glow with all these beautiful colors. Normally, in years past, it might have been something that I would have not given more than a mental thought to but it just seems that I now tend to find beauty in the most simple of things.

The Black Eyed Susan’s grow naturally and freely on the island. They seem to go relatively unnoticed in their natural setting until the right moment occurs. At that point you just have to stop and marvel at their simplistic beauty – “Smell the Black Eyed Susan’s” – if you will.

Looking for a stock shot or do you have an assignment coming up, do not hesitate to contact me. I am no more than a phone call or an email away!
Try and stay COOL for the week ahead.

Best regards
~dK~

With all the rain and as hot as it is, I guess you could say that summer has officially announced its presence. I hope you found a cool place to enjoy the weekend.

Anyone that fishes knows that North Carolina is one of the best spots on the east coast for big game fish. With the gulf stream so close to the Outer Banks, charter boat fishing is big business for those looking to grab a trophy fish and bragging rights on Monday around the coffee pot. For those spectators waiting at the docks to see the “catch of the day” there is nothing more impressive than to watch the boats coming back to the marina’s with fish flags flying. Each flag represents a different catch (Blue Marlin, Tuna, Sailfish) and it is not unusual to see one or two of these flags flying high on a boat. More flags mean a more productive day and more bragging rights for crew and fisherman

While out touring the island on Sunday we stopped by Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, one of the largest marinas on the Eastern seaboard, where we came across one boat that had more that a good day. The charter, Qualifier captained by Aaron Wright, was flying 8 flags for the days efforts. And the eight flags were all Sailfish, a huge accomplishment for one day of fishing. The best news of it all was they were caught, photographed and then released to enjoy another day of being a fish.

I would think Captain Wright, when asked about the day, would say,“Just another day at the office!”

Looking for a stock shot or do you have an assignment coming up, do not hesitate to contact me. I am no more than a phone call or email away!

Best regards
~dK~

With a short work week behind you and then two days to catch up on your post holiday celebrations I can only wish you fond memories of your 4^th Of July as you start the beginning of a full work week.

One of the most fascinating things about being close to the ocean is you never know what the weather will have in store for you. One minute it may be sunny and the next a full thunderstorm comes in off the coast. You always have to keep alert to the every changing conditions.

While eating dinner a few nights back I sat in amazement watching a lightning storm off the coast and marveled at the absolute pageantry of the show Mother Nature was providing.  It was as if she knew that the week before we had been left without a fireworks celebration and she opted to provide one of her own.

I was drawn to the electrifying ballet like a bug to a bug light. I grabbed my camera and off I went to capture at least “one moment in time” worthy of the show in which I had been provided a front row seat. For all that it was I am not sure I did it justice. Here is one moment in time of the fury and beauty of Mother Nature.

If you find yourself in need of a stock shot or have an assignment, do not hesitate to contact me. I am no further away than a phone call or email!

Best regards
~dK~

The day after our Nations Birthday celebration and I am sure work is not where you want to be. I trust you spent your day in fine fashion with family and friends celebrating in a  manner befitting of this glorious day. Why else would you kill yourself cooking all day so others could eat?

 I am very fortunate to spending some quality time with friends on the Outer Banks where the weather could not be any more perfect. Cool nights have allowed us to turn the air conditioner off and open the windows to the enjoyment of the sounds of crashing waves on the beach, music to my ears.

This years 4^th of July was somewhat dampened here by the cancellation of all firework celebrations on the islands. Last year one of the trucks storing all of the fireworks for the island of Ocracoke blew up the day before the event. A few issues arose about the handling of the explosives which caused due concern for this years events. Instead most of the villages held festivals to celebrate the public’s participation.

Not to be dampened by the lack of fireworks, Mother Nature decided to showcase her own talents and put on a show of her own. I give you Mother Natures’ tribute to our Nations Birthday.

May we all keep the men and women of the Armed Forces in our thoughts and prayers!!!!

Best regards
~dK~