https://www.timeandlight.com/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/john-brady-photography-darkroom/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/the-florida-black-and-white-gallery/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/floridacolor/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/florida-cattle-lands/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/florida-cattle-lands-black-and-white/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/florida-cattle-lands-color/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/other-places-black-and-white/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/other-places/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/the-florida-gallery/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/other-places-color/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/blog/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/analog-vs-digital/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/everglades/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/everglades-black-and-white/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/everglades-color/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/save-our-creek/ https://www.timeandlight.com/gallery/gheenoe-lt25-2/ https://www.timeandlight.com/page/about/ https://www.timeandlight.com/page/darkroom-2/ https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/634/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Deerfield-Lighthouse-1.jpg Deerfield Beach Lighthouse A stormy morning at the Deerfield Beach Lighthouse Deerfield Beach https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/633/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cow-Creek-1.jpg Cow Creek #1 Close to Cedar Key, Cow creek is a beautiful salt marsh North West Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/632/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC4819.2.jpg Cypress Lake in fall People don't think we have seasons in Florida, let alone fall colors. This beautiful cypress lake is proof undisclosed https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/631/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC4645-crop.jpg Gray Cypress Sunrise On this morning I was in the right place at the right time North central FLorida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/630/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/north-florida-salt-marsh.jpg Making new images People often ask how I am able to photograph some of the wet locations that I capture North West Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/629/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/silver-River-2.jpg Silver River #2 The Silver River is located near the Ocala National Forest Silver River https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/628/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/crescent-4.jpg Crescent Lake #4 Crescent lake is one of Floridas many places of natural beauty North central Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/627/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/oak-garden-3-crop.jpg Oak Garden #3 This flooded Oak Garden is a paradise of shape and form Undisclosed https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/626/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/oak-garden-8.jpg Oak Garden #8 The Oak Garden is a magical place when flooded. undisclosed https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/625/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/oak-garden-2.jpg Oak Garden #2 The secret Oak Garden comes alive when flooded undisclosed https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/624/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/crescent-3-bw.jpg Crescent Lake #3 Crescent Lake is a large yet quiet lake in Florida North central FL https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/623/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/disston-second-trip-8-adj.jpg Gray Cypress #8 Cypess trees standing in water always capture my attention. The challenge of photographing them adds to the appeal for me Central Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/622/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/disston-second-trip-5-adj.jpg Gray Cypress Lake #5 Gray Cypress is a hidden gem, with Cypress Trees guarding her shores Central Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/621/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/arbuckle4.jpg Arbuckle Creek #4 Arbuckle Creek flows from the south end of Lake Arbuckle and empties into Lake Istokpoga. Avon Park FL https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/620/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/arbuckle1.jpg Arbuckle Creek #1 Arbuckle Creek begins at the south end of Lake Arbuckle and flows South to Lake Istokpoga Avon Park FL https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/618/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/econ-oak.jpg Econlockhatchee Dream The short name for this beautiful river is the Econ. Part of the St Johns River system, this palm lined river is one of our most beautiful. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/617/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Dead-lakes-days.jpg Dead Lake days I refer to this lake as a Cypress tree museum. Most of our large Cypress were cut dow about 100 years ago. These trees being dead when the logger's were chopping down our best trees were spared the axe. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/616/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/majestic-dead-lakes.jpg Majestic Dead Lakes These Cypress trees died a couple hundred years ago during a major flood. The theory is that salt water was pushed north from the Gulf of Mexico, creating this lake and killing the trees. Cypress are prized because of their resistance to decay, the fact that these skeletal remains still exist is a testament to that. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/615/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/coming-back.jpg Coming Back Many of the Cypress that died hundreds of years ago at the Dead Lakes are regenerating from the old trunks. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/614/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/chipola.jpg Chipola https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/613/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Blue-Cypres-stillness.jpg The Stillness https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/612/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/IMG_2441.jpg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/611/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/IMG_1907.jpg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/610/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/IMG_1279.jpg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/607/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC2974.jpg Yeehaw Junction #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/606/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC2971.jpg Yeehaw Junction #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/605/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC2932.jpg Yeehaw Junction #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/604/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-thousand-islands-5.jpg Ten Thousand Islands 5 The Ten Thousand Islands, a realm of tranquility and beauty, offer a refuge from the clamor of modern life. As you immerse yourself in the serenity of this natural sanctuary, let the cares of the world melt away. Gaze upon the horizon, where the sky and sea merge into an infinite expanse of azure. Inhale the fresh, salty air, feeling its invigorating essence cleanse your spirit. The Ten Thousand Islands, a sanctuary for the soul, invite you to surrender to the embrace of nature's tranquility. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/603/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/tahiti-2bw.jpg Tahiti #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/602/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Tahiti-2.jpg Tahiti #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/601/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/st-vincent-2.jpg St Vincent Island #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/600/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/st-joe-dunes-2.jpg St Joe Dunes #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/599/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Moon-Over-Crab-Key.jpg Moon Over Crab Key #1 The Ten Thousand Islands, a haven for diverse ecosystems, teem with an abundance of life. Dolphins frolic playfully in the turquoise waters, their sleek bodies arcing through the air as they breach the surface. Manatees, gentle giants of the sea, graze peacefully on the seagrass beds, their massive forms gliding effortlessly through the underwater realm. Amidst the mangroves, elusive herons stand poised, their watchful eyes scanning the waters for unsuspecting prey. The Ten Thousand Islands, a sanctuary for countless creatures, pulse with the vibrant energy of a thriving ecosystem. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/598/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/jewel-key-1.jpg Jewel Key #1 The Ten Thousand Islands, a land steeped in human history, whisper tales of ancient civilizations. Evidence of Native American settlements, dating back thousands of years, lies scattered beneath the verdant mantle of the islands. Shell rings, remnants of bygone communities, stand as silent sentinels, their weathered stones bearing witness to the enduring legacy of those who once called these shores home. The Ten Thousand Islands, a tapestry woven with threads of time, echo with the whispers of the past. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/597/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/demijohn-key-1.jpg Demijohn Key #1 The Ten Thousand Islands, a captivating tapestry of land and water, beckon explorers with their allure of pristine wilderness. Kayak through serpentine channels, slicing through the emerald heart of the mangrove forests, where sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled patterns upon the glistening waters. As you venture deeper, a symphony of nature's orchestra fills the air - the gentle whisper of the breeze rustling through the leaves, the rhythmic lapping of waves against the shore, and the melodious chorus of birds serenading the dawn. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/596/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-Flood-1.jpg Myakka River State Park #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/595/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-Flood-8.jpg Myakka River State Park #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/594/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-Flood-4.jpg Myakka River State Park #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/593/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-Flood-3.jpg Myakka River State Park #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/592/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-2-bw2.jpg Myakka River State Park #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/591/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Bonita-Banyan-2-col.jpg Bonita Banyan #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/590/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/sabal-prarie-.jpg Sabal Prairie Located on the Western side of the Everglades, the 729,000-acre Big Cypress National Preserve is larger than the District of Colombia. About one-third of this land is covered in Cypress trees. Unfortunately, the largest of these trees were logged during the late 1800's up until they were all but gone in the 1950's. Many of the trees were several thousand years old, natural relics lost to the whims of commercialism. Before the Army Corp of Engineers devised an ill-conceived plan to drain Florida, most of the water in the Big Cypress came from Lake Okeechobee and rain fall. Today most of that water is diverted into canals and rushed into Florida Bay and the Ten Thousand Islands without going through its natural and effective filtration system. Today, the 60 or so inches of rain that falls each year over the Big Cypress still flows to the South in the form of sheet flow. This often shin-deep water is crystal clear as it flows though the Prairie's on the way to the Ten Thousand Islands. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/589/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/val-dorcia-09-09.jpg Val d' Orcia #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/588/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/hidden-linville-2.jpg Hidden Linville #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/587/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/grotto-5-adj-no-glare.jpg Grotto #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/586/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/grotto-3-adj-6-30.jpg Grotto #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/585/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cosby-Creek-2.jpg Cosby Creek #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/584/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cosby-Creek-1-adj.jpg Cosby Creek #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/583/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cosby-1-hdr-stitch-ns.jpg Cosby Creek #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/581/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/botany-14-20x30.jpg Botany Bay #14 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/580/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/botany-12-start.jpg Botany Bay #12 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/579/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-ridge-forrest-2-adj.jpg Blue Ridge Forest #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/578/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/4bails-new-2013.jpg 4 Bails #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/576/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3392-2.jpg Georgia Lake #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/575/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3289.jpg Georgia Lake #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/574/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3269.jpg Georgia Lake #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/573/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3241.jpg Georgia Lake #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/572/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3229-start.jpg Georgia Lake #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/570/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3196-new-2.jpg Georgia Lake #7 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/569/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3193-2.jpg Georgia Lake #8 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/568/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/vald-orcia-09-09.jpg Val d' Orcia https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/567/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/upper-falls-new.jpg Upper Falls #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/566/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/rainbow-2-adj-bw.jpg Rainbow Falls #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/565/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/GLS4-adj.jpg Georgia Lake #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/564/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/GLS3-crop.jpg Georgia Lake #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/563/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/GLS1-adj.jpg Georgia Lake #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/562/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cemetaria-colon-6.jpg Cuba National Cemetary #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/561/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cemetaria-colon-3ns.jpg Cuba National Cemetary #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/560/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cemetaria-colon-2.jpg Cuba National Cemetary #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/559/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Botany-Bay-after-the-storm-3.jpg Botany Bay #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/558/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Botany-Bay-after-the-storm-1.jpg Botany Bay #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/557/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Botany-Bay-11.jpg Botany Bay #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/555/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Botany-Bay-10.jpg Botany Bay #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/554/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/botany-bay-9.jpg Botany Bay #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/553/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Botany-Bay-3.jpg Botany Bay #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/552/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dinner-Island-2-color-crop.jpg Dinner Island #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/550/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/color-cows-1-nik-effect.jpg Collier Ranch #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/549/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3921.jpg The Roundup #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/547/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3910.jpg The Roundup #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/544/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3867.jpg The Roundup #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/543/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3854.jpg The Roundup #8 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/541/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3794.jpg The Roundup #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/540/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3763.jpg Cattle Ranch #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/538/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Bull-in-the-Mist.jpg Bull in the Mist https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/537/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3739.jpg Cattle Ranch #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/536/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3731.jpg Cattle Ranch #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/535/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3699.jpg Cattle Ranch #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/534/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3693-adj.jpg Cattle Ranch #7 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/533/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3690.jpg Cattle Ranch #8 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/531/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3635.jpg Cattle Ranch #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/530/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3593.jpg Cattle Ranch #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/529/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC3579.jpg Cattle Ranch #12 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/528/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/venus-2-darker.jpg Venus Brahmas #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/527/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dr4-adj.jpg Cattle Ranch #13 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/526/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cows-on-the-creek.jpg Cows on the Creek #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/525/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Collier-Ranch3.jpg Collier Ranch #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/524/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Collier-Ranch-8.jpg Collier Ranch #8 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/523/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/6-25-22-2-2.jpg Yeehaw Junction #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/522/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/4-crop-s.jpg Collier Ranch #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/518/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/weeki-wachee-1-ns.jpg Weeki Wachee #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/517/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/venus-7-on1.jpg Hidden Lagoon #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/515/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Turkey-Key-3-2012.jpg Turkey Key #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/514/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Turkey-Key-2-new-raw.jpg New Turkey Key #2 The Ten Thousand Islands gets it's name because of the thousands of small mangrove islands that help create a barrier, protecting the southern coastline of Florida. This region is part of the Everglades National Park. The area also represents the end of the Everglades Eco-system. Fresh clean water finds it's way through the river of grass and empties into the Gulf, and plays an important role as a rookery and hatchery.To me, this Mangrove skeleton is so much more than a dead tree. This remnant of the past looks more like a mythical creature that has lost a battle and is crawling back to sea. This image was capture with my 8x10 wooden view camera and Fuji Velvia 50 film https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/513/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/the-creek-live-oak-1.jpg Fisheating Creek Live Oak #1 Along the banks of Fisheating Creek, there stands a majestic old oak, its branches reaching out like protective arms towards the water's edge. Its bark is weathered and gnarled, a testament to the countless seasons it has endured. Yet, despite its age, the oak exudes an air of vitality, its leaves a vibrant green that contrasts with the silvery gleam of the creek. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/511/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/the-creek-22.jpg Fisheating Creek #29 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/510/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/THE-CRACK-2.jpg The Crack The color of Florida springs is caused by a combination of factors, including the depth of the water, the type of sediment at the bottom of the spring, and the presence of algae and other plants. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/509/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/THE-CRACK-1.jpg Spring Run Florida is a land of natural wonders, and its springs are no exception. There are over 1,700 springs in Florida, making it the home to more springs than any other state in the United States. These springs are fed by the Floridan Aquifer, a vast underground reservoir of water. The aquifer is made up of porous limestone, which allows water to filter through and collect in underground pools. Eventually, this water emerges to the surface, creating the springs. Florida's springs are a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. The water in the springs is typically crystal clear and very cold, with an average temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The springs are also home to a variety of plants and animals, including manatees, alligators, and turtles. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/508/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-thousand-islands-1.jpg Ten Thousand Islands #1 The Ten Thousand Islands is part of the everglades ecosystem. The hundreds of mangrove islands help protect the mainland from the numerous severe storms that ravage our part of the country. They also create habitats for fish and wildlife. I made this image many years ago on 8x10 film with my wooden view camera. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/506/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-k-storm-5-new-color.jpg Ten thousand Island Storm #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/503/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-k-6-adj-ns.jpg Ten Thousand Islands #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/500/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Tamiami-Trail-4-ver-2.jpg Tamiami Trail #4 Most of my images are made with an old-fashioned type wooden view camera and film. Today the majority of photographers use digital cameras, but for me there is something about the intimate relationship of working with a hand made wooden camera and large sheets of film. On occasion I carry a Canon digital camera with me along side of my view camera. There are times I am able to create an image with the digital that I just can't capture on film, this was one of those times Big Cypress National Preserve https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/499/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/talbot-5-done.jpg Talbot #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/496/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/talbot-4.jpg Talbot #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/494/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/sunrise-on-the-hook2.jpg Sunrise on Gator Hook #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/493/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/sunrise-on-the-hook3.jpg Sunrise on Gator Hook #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/491/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/star-trail-fish-house-long-trails-brighter.jpg Star trails Fish House https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/490/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/srv-16-v2.jpg Suwannee River Valley #16 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/489/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/shell-creek-falls-1-adj-large-lt-water.jpg Shell Creek #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/488/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/shell-creek-5-3-28-11.jpg Shell Creek #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/487/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/shell-creek-3-adjusted.jpg Shell Creek #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/486/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/shell-6-7-3-croped-24x30.jpg Shell Creek #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/484/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Santa-Fe-River-9.jpg Suwannee River Valley #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/483/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/River-of-grass-3.jpg River of Grass #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/482/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Rainbow-Over-the-River-of-Grass.jpg Rainbow Over the River of Grass https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/481/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/old-pier-1-pan.jpg Pilings #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/480/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/night-1.jpg Cypress Lake Night #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/479/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/new-turkey-1-new-re-work-v2-.jpg New Turkey Key #1 I made this image about ten years ago in the Everglades National Park. I was using a custom size back for my view camera that was 5x8 inches and Fuji Velvia 50 film. the best part of this story is, I was on this trip with Clyde Butcher and Jeff Ripple. We each split up and did our own thing all being drawn to different spots. This scene was screaming my name, so I set up to capture the image. With camera on tripod and shutter release in hand I was ready to click the shutter when I feel a tap on my shoulder. Clyde had come up behind me and asked what I was photographing. I excitedly explained to him my vision for this image. he shook his head and gave me a hmm. We each see the world differently. Now the best part of the story, a couple years later, I entered this image in an Everglades National Park photo competition. I was fortunate to win first place with this image. To my surprise Clyde was the Judge, to his surprise the anonymous image he chose to win first was the one he shook his head at while I was making it. We still get a laugh out of it today. I have been extremely fortunate to have Clyde as a mentor and a friend all of these years! Everglades National Park, Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/478/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Naples-Pier-summer-2014.jpg Naples Pier Summer 2014 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/477/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakke-3.jpg Myakka River State Park #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/476/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Myakka-4.jpg Myakka River State Park #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/475/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/money-key-5-adj.jpg Money Key https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/474/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Mangrove-sunset-new.jpg Mangrove Sunset #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/473/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lumber-Key.jpg Lumber Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/472/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Loxahatchee-1.jpg Loxahatchee River #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/471/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lovers-Key-11.jpg Lovers Key #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/467/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lovers-Key-5.jpg Lovers Key #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/465/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/lovers-key-1.jpg Lovers Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/463/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/lost-2adj.jpg Suwannee River Valley #21 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/460/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/kingston-key-1neverman-canvas-s.jpg Kingston Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/455/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Istokpoga-fog-16-adj.jpg Cypress Fog #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/450/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Istokpoga-fog-10-adj.jpg Cypress Fog #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/448/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Istokpoga-fog-8-adj.jpg Cypress Fog #12 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/447/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Istokpoga-fog-7-adj.jpg Cypress Fog #13 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/445/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Istokpoga-fog-5-adj.jpg Cypress Fog #15 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/440/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/hilosborough--1-2014.jpg Hillsborough River #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/439/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Gullivan-Bay-1-2-27-13.jpg Gullivan Bay #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/438/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/gator-Hook-Dome-5.jpg Gator Hook Dme #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/436/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/gator-hook-3.jpg Gator Hook #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/435/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/gathering-storm-2.jpg Gathering Storm Big Cypress #2 Weather changes quickly in the Florida Everglades. On this summer day in the Big Cypress the skies were blue without a cloud in sight. I wanted to take my daughter out and show her the beauty of the Glades so I loaded up my canoe with gear and drug it through the wet grass. As the sun started to set this storm started to build and approach us rapidly. I was able to make a couple quick images before we had to high tail it out of there, lightning and rain chasing us the whole way. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/434/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Fisheating-Creek-Live-Oak-2.jpg Fisheating Creek Live oak #2 The oak has witnessed the passage of time, watching as the creek has meandered through the Everglades, carving its path through the landscape. It has seen the rise and fall of civilizations, the changing seasons, and the ebb and flow of life. Yet, through it all, the oak has remained a steadfast sentinel, a symbol of strength and resilience. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/433/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Fisheating-Creek-Game-Warden-Camp-on-1-detail-and-color.jpg Fisheating Creek Cabin https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/432/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Fish-shack.jpg Fish House #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/431/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Fish-Houses-1-started.jpg Fish House #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/430/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Fish-House-5-.jpg Fish House #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/429/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fec-6.jpg Fisheating Creek live Oak #6 The oak has provided shelter and sustenance to countless creatures, its branches offering a haven to birds and its roots providing a home to fish. It has been a gathering place for Native Americans, who found solace in its shade and inspiration in its presence. And today, it continues to be a source of wonder and admiration for all who visit Fisheating Creek. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/428/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/demijohn-key-1-lighter.jpg Demijohn Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/425/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cypress-Sunset-6.jpg Cypress Sunset #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/423/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Crate-Key-1.jpg Crate Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/422/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/chaz-storm-1-crop.jpg Chaz Storm #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/421/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Charlie-Creek-1-adj.jpg Charlie Creek #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/420/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cayo-3.jpg Cayo Costa #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/419/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cape-Romano-Dome-Houses-2.jpg Cape Romano Dome Houses #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/417/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-lake-14.jpg Cypress Lake #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/413/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Big-cypress-sunset-1.jpg Big Cypress Sunset #1 I am fortunate that I live on the western edge of this magnificent territory. In the summer time the Everglades come alive. The daytime heat creates massive thunderheads that take on incredible shapes and forms and change to colors as the sun sets that are beyond belief. This evening as I stood shin deep in the cool grassy water I was treated to one of those magical events! https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/412/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Big-Cypress-Marsh-1-r.fisher.jpg Big Cypress Marsh #5 Big Cypress Marsh #5 I had been driving by this area in the Big Cypress Preserve all summer thinking this would be a great spot to make a photograph. Most of the places I work in are a long ways from the road and usually involve hiking in with 60 lbs of gear on my back through knee deep water, so I figured this would be a piece of cake. I parked my van on the side of the road as the sun was starting to set. I mounted my 8x10 camera on my tripod and proceeded to walk in. To my surprise I immediately sunk in up to my waist in mud and wet grass. I realized quickly this was going to be much harder than I thought. As I trudged along I soon became aware that I wasn't alone, little heads started popping up one by one checking me out. With all these young gators surrounding me, I figured momma couldn't be far away. That gave me something to think about as I climbed under my dark cloth to compose this image. The sun was starting to set and the skies weren't cooperating and then things started to change. To my good fortune the clouds fell into place and the setting sun at my back gave the grass a beautiful amber glow. I was able to get this shot and I feel it captures the mood and the beauty of the scene I had immersed myself in. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/411/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/bcl-original-more-green-dusted.jpg Cypress Lake #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/410/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/bcl-7-film-raw-conversion-3rd.jpg Cypress Lake #7 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/406/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Barefoot-Beach-1-color-adj.jpg Barefoot Beach #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/405/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Back-Pond-1-adj.jpg Clyde's Back Pond https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/404/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Alligator-point-started.jpg Alligator Point https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/402/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/15-newest.jpg Suwannee River Valley #22 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/401/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/11-done.jpg Suwannee River Valley #23 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/398/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/6.jpg Gator Hook #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/396/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/5x8-1-adj-.jpg Fisheating Creek #28 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/394/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/4-bcl.jpg Cypress Lake #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/392/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/3-bcl.jpg Cypress Lake #12 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/389/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/2-adj.jpg Cypress Lake #14 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/388/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/1-final.jpg Suwannee River Valley #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/387/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/9-adj.jpg Loxahatchee #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/385/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_MG_7605-Pano.jpg Ten Thousand Islands #7 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/384/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_MG_3607.jpg Midnight on the Cypress Lake #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/382/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_MG_0339-2.jpg Moon Over Naples Pier https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/381/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/florida-lake-1.jpg Florida Lake #1 A friend of mine had access from the owner of a 5000 acre property in East central Florida. We had this private area all to ourselves to photograph. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/379/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cypress-sunset-1.jpg Cypress Sunset #1 I have visited the lake located west of Okeechobee many times over the years. This ancient pond cypress is one of my favorite subjects. On this evening I had the perfect sky. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/378/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dead-lakes-1.jpg Dead Lakes #1 I try to visit the Dead Lakes as often as I can. It's 8 hours from my home so I have to make a commitment to getting there. I captured this fall color scene the fall of 2022. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/377/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/old-boca-grande-lighthouse.jpg The Old Boca Grande Lighthouse There is a new modern lighthouse on Boca Grande that most people visit, but the original lighthouse is still there a bit further up the beach and still functioning. I happened to capture it after the sun had gone down and these crazy storm clouds were building on the horizon. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/376/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cypress-night-2.jpg Cypress Lake Night #2 This image cost me a camera. I had the idea of photographing at 3:00 in the morning to capture the pond Cypress with the night sky. Working from my boat with my tripod beside me in the water, I thought I had properly clamped my camera to the tripod, when sadly I watched my Sony a7r2 and Canon tilt shift lens tumble into the water. Without hesitation or thought, I dove to the bottom of the seven ft deep, alligator infested lake, felt around on the bottom and came back up with a very wet camera. The camera was destroyed but, the lens was sent off for repair and was salvaged. The memory card was wet but still had the images I had already made undamaged. Fortunately, I had a second Sony a7r camera with me and continued to photograph. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/375/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC1850-2.jpg Fisheating Creek #29 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/374/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC1820.jpg Home by the Sea The Fish Houses in Pine Island were originally used to store ice for the comercial fisherman of the area to preserve their catch. Today, a handful of lucky people own amd maintain them for recreational use. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/373/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC1598.jpg Fisheating Creek Sunset I consider Fisheating Creek to be the start of the Everglades. This Creek feeds into Lake Okeechobee and the water then continues South through the River of Grass. I had been photographing all day and had just gotten back to the ramp when the sky exploded into this vibrant scene. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/372/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-thousand-Island-storm-6.jpg Ten Thousand Islands Storm #6 The Ten Thousand Islands is located in Collier County, Florida. The Wildlife Refuge was established in 1996 and encompasses approximately 35,000 acres. Two thirds of the region are covered in mangroves and collectively is one of the largest mangrove forests in North America. It is a nature lover and photographer's paradise. The Ten Thousand Islands is home to roughly 200 species of fish and almost as many species of birds. The Ten Thousand Islands has a rich history; it was occupied by Native Americans for over three thousand years. It was also a hideout in the late 1800's for military deserters and other outlaws. It later became a drug trafficking point due to its isolation and geography. I have had the good fortune to fly low and slow in an experimental airplane over the Islands. From the sky it looks like a jigsaw puzzle. I have spent countless days exploring the region in my little Gheenoe boat, this is one of my favorite places to go to get away from it all. As a photographer, my favorite subjects include some of the old, weathered, lone mangroves of the region. They sometimes look like sea creatures that are guarding the islands. Navigating this maze of mangrove islands and shallow oyster beds is challenging; even with a GPS and compass, I still have gotten turned around. Summer is my favorite time of year to photograph there when the clouds are at their most spectacular and look as though they are coming down to touch the sea. This is also the time of year when the mosquitoes and no-seeums are the most voracious. If you go, bring bug spray and plenty of sunscreen. Many of these images were created with an 8x10 in wooden view camera and large format film. Everglades National Park, Florida https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/369/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/4-final.jpg Blue Cypress Plate #1 Captured on Fuji Velvia 50 8x10 film minutes after heavy rain stopped. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/368/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/wrong-turn-2.jpg Fisheating Creek Wrong Turn #2 I have explored Fisheating creek over 100 times and I still have gotten lost on it from time to time. I recommend to everyone that they bring a gps, just in case. Even a compass is useless since the creek almost goes in circles in places. On this day, I thought I was on the main creek when I realized I had made a wrong turn. Sometimes a wrong turn can be the right turn, it was for me finding this beautiful old Cypress. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/367/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/winter-creek-mono.jpg Fisheating Creek #26 There are many great areas on Fisheating Creek to explore. This is one of my favorites. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/366/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/washington-oaks-1.jpg Washington Oaks #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/365/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/tree-hugger-2.jpg Fisheating Creek Tree hugger #2 I like to think of myself as a tree portrait photographer. Each tree has its own character. This Tree always looks like it has her arms spread wide ready to give a big hug. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/363/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Tims-Tree-5.jpg Fisheating Creek Tim's Tree #5 While spending a winter day alone on Fisheating Creek, I noticed the beauty of this ancient Cypress tree and the low water accentuating the root system. While standing in the water with my view camera taking this image, my cell phone rang. I learned that my good friend Tim had suddenly and unexpectedly died. From that point on, I have thought of this tree as Tim's tree and think about him when I am there. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/362/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Tims-Tree-3-adj.jpg Fisheating Creek Tim's Tree #3 In the winter, Fisheating creek can get very dry and almost walkable. On this day the water was low enough to put my gear in one of my small canoes and pull it behind me while I walked. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/361/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/The-flood-of-13-1.jpg Fisheating Creek flood of 2013 In the winter, Fisheating Creek becomes a dry walkable creek bed with some puddles. In the summer time, during rainy season the forest and the creek become indistinguishable. This was one of those flood events that I got out on the creek and experienced the beauty of the water in the woods. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/360/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/the-Dead-Lakes-4.jpg Dead Lakes #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/359/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ten-thousand-islands-8.jpg Ten Thousand Islands 8 Nestled along the southwestern coast of Florida, the Ten Thousand Islands unveil a labyrinth of emerald isles and tranquil waterways. These verdant havens, numbering in the hundreds, stretch from Cape Romano to the mouth of the Lostmans River, their low-lying shores adorned with lush mangroves that thrive in the embrace of the salty air. The islands, though not ten thousand in number as their moniker suggests, embody a mesmerizing realm of untamed beauty, a sanctuary where nature's artistry reigns supreme. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/357/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Telegraph-2.jpg Telegraph Creek #2 Telegraph Creek is close to the town of Alva and Fort Myers. It is difficult to access but, worth the effort. When you are on this ancient waterway, you feel as though you are a million miles away from civilization. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/356/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Telegraph-3.jpg Telegraph Creek 3 Telegraph Creek's natural beauty is not merely a visual spectacle but a source of tranquility and rejuvenation. Its serene atmosphere invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/355/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Telegraph-4.jpg Telegraph Creek #4 Along its gentle course, Telegraph Creek unveils a captivating tapestry of natural wonders. Lush vegetation, including sawgrass prairies, hardwood hammocks, and cypress swamps, flourishes along its banks, creating a vibrant corridor of life. The creek's tranquil waters provide a haven for a diverse array of aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and the occasional alligator. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/353/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Telegraph-6.jpg Telegraph Creek 6 Telegraph Creek, a tranquil waterway meandering through the heart of Florida's southwestern landscape, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Its pristine waters, shaded by a canopy of towering cypress trees, provide a serene escape into the embrace of nature. This is my favorite image of Telegraph Creek, I believe it captures the essence of her beauty. Sometimes the conditions are perfect to make an image, this was one of those times. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/352/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/telegraph-8.jpg Telegraph Creek 8 Telegraph Creek's history is interwoven with the development of Florida's southwestern region. In the late 19th century, the creek served as a vital transportation route, connecting settlements and facilitating the movement of goods and people. Steamboats plied its waters, carrying supplies and passengers, leaving an indelible mark on the region's history. This is one of my earliest images of Telegraph. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/351/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Suwannee-River-Valley.jpg Suwannee River Valley #22 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/350/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Suwannee-2.jpg Suwannee River Valley #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/349/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/santa--fe-4.2.jpg Suwannee River Valley #23 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/348/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/round-key-1.jpg Round Key #1 Round Key's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a cherished destination for kayakers, canoeists, and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of the Ten Thousand Islands. Whether exploring its secluded beaches, paddling through its mangrove-lined waterways, or simply basking in the tranquility of its surroundings, Round Key offers an unforgettable experience of nature's wonders. I capture this image with my 4x5 view camera, early in my days photographing Florida. There was an intense storm building, suddenly an opening in the clouds created a spotlight effect on this weathered old mangrove. I was fortunate to be set up and ready when the scene occurred. This is one of my favorite Florida images. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/347/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/ocheesee-4.jpg Ocheesee Pond #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/346/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/midden-1.jpg The Midden Oak #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/345/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/memorial-3-adj.jpg Fisheating Creek Memorial Tree #3 Fisheating Creek feeds from the West To the East into Lake Okeechobee. I like to think of it as the start of the Everglades. Rumor has it that Ponce DeLeon even explored it when he came to America, in search of the Fountain of Youth. The Memorial tree is located downstream from the State boat ramp and campground. Rumor has it, that the name came from a man named Donny that grew up in the Fisheating Creek area. While fishing there one day, he was told of an accident on the main highway that required his assistance. He was killed while trying to help with the accident. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/343/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lumber-Key.jpg Lumber Key #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/342/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lovers-Key-11.jpg Lovers Key #12 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/341/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/lost-2adj.jpg Suwannee River Valley #24 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/340/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/litchgate-oak.jpg Litchgate Oak #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/339/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/kirby-storter-2.jpg Kirby Storter #1 A visit to Kirby Storter Roadside Park and the Kirby Storter Boardwalk is an immersive experience that unveils the hidden treasures of the Big Cypress National Preserve. It's a journey into a world of diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty, a testament to the enduring power of nature. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/338/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/johnson-lake-8-31-12.jpg Fisheating Creek #18 Fisheating Creek is a great example of Florida wilderness. I always feel like I have gone back in time when I am there. This image was made with my 8x10 camera and film. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/337/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Johnson-Lake-1.jpg Johnson Lake 1 Way up stream from the boat launch at Fisheating Creek is a beautiful lake named Johnson Lake. This is in a place I can rarely get to because it is so remote, but once there, you get lost in it's beauty. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/335/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/jacks-branch-1.jpg Jack's Branch #1 Jack's Branch eventually joins Telegraph Creek, its waters contributing to the larger stream's flow and ecological significance. Telegraph Creek, in turn, forms part of the larger watershed of the Caloosahatchee River, one of Florida's most important waterways. Throughout its course, Jack's Branch serves as a vital component of the preserve's interconnected ecosystem, supporting a diverse array of life and contributing to the overall health of the natural environment. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/333/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Jacks-Branch-5-adj.jpg Jack's Branch 5 Along the banks of Jack's Branch, lush vegetation flourishes, creating a vibrant corridor of life. Cypress trees, their gnarled roots anchoring them in the streambed, provide shade and shelter for a variety of aquatic insects, amphibians, and fish. The overhanging branches also offer nesting sites for a variety of bird species, including the anhinga, the great blue heron, and the belted kingfisher. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/332/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Jacks-Branch-4-adj.jpg Jack's Branch 4 Jack's Branch is a meandering tributary of Telegraph Creek, flowing through the heart of the Babcock Ranch Preserve in Charlotte County, Florida. This picturesque stream, named after an early landowner, winds its way through a diverse landscape of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and sawgrass prairies, adding a touch of tranquility and natural beauty to the preserve's expansive wilderness. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/331/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Jacks-Branch-2-adj.jpg Jack's Branch #2 Jack's Branch stands as a testament to the importance of preserving Florida's natural heritage. Its meandering waters, diverse habitats, and abundant wildlife provide a glimpse into the rich ecological tapestry of the Babcock Ranch Preserve. As the preserve continues to be managed and protected, Jack's Branch will undoubtedly play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance and preserving the natural beauty of this unique corner of Florida. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/324/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/hog-key-1-on1.jpg Hog Key Hog Key is one of the many Mangrove Islands in The Ten Thousand Island National Preserve. I found this abstract Scene during a driving rain storm and captured it on film with my wooden view camera. Ten Thousand Islands #9 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/323/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Harvest-moon.jpg Harvest Moon on the Ten Thousand Islands Ten Thousand Islands #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/322/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/gator-hook-dome-1.jpg Gator Hook Dome 1 Cypress domes are not only ecologically significant but also visually captivating. Their circular form, contrasting with the surrounding vegetation, creates a sense of mystery and allure. The towering cypress trees, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky, lend an air of majesty to these unique ecosystems. Whether viewed from afar or explored from within, cypress domes offer a glimpse into the remarkable diversity and resilience of life in the Big Cypress National Preserve. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/321/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/van-patan-hammock-bw.jpg Van Patan Hammock 1 Located behind the Van Patan's camp on the Fisheating Creek, is a beautiful oak hammock. On this day the creek was way over her banks, flooding this beautiful forest. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/320/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/van-patans-camp.jpg Van Patan's Camp Van Patan's CampThis is an image I captured quite a few years ago on a very flooded Fisheating Creek. I made the long journey in my small Gheenoe late one afternoon. The creek was so high, I couldn't tell what was creek and what was normally forest. Anyway, as the sun was getting low, I started downstream to get back to my truck, What I thought was creek was forest. I thought, if I keep going I will get back to the creek, I could see it about 100 yards to my left. The trees got tighter and the current got stronger. I got to a point where I couldn't go any further because my boat was wedged between Cypress trees and the current was pushing it tighter. The thought came over me, that I would have to abandon my boat and float down creek the ten miles or so to my truck. I knew once the water receded my boat would be stuck in the woods for eternity. So I jumped out into the chest deep water and dislodged my boat. I then tied a rope to it and walked about a quarter mile back to this cabin dragging my boat through the trees against the current the whole way. Now with the sun setting, I found my way back to the creek and made the journey back to my truck. The beer in my cooler never tasted so good! https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/319/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Flooded-Oak-1.jpg Floded Oak 1 I have photographed this beautiful ancient Oak many times, but I have never seen it more beautiful than it was on this late summer afternoon in 2023. The water was way up, the wind was still and the light was perfect. Nice to be in the right place at the right time. This Live oak is located on the Fisheating Creek near the outpost in Palmdale Florida, about 30 miles west of Lake Okeechobee. The name comes from a translation of the Indian word for the place where fish are eaten. This creek is rich in history as it is in beauty https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/317/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fenholloway1.jpg North Florida Salt Marsh #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/316/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fec-12.jpg Fisheating Creek 12 Fisheating Creek beckons explorers with its allure of pristine wilderness, inviting them to immerse themselves in the tranquility of this natural sanctuary. As you kayak through serpentine channels, slicing through the emerald heart of the mangrove forests, let the cares of the world melt away. Gaze upon the horizon, where the sky and sea merge into an infinite expanse of azure. Inhale the fresh, salty air, feeling its invigorating essence cleanse your spirit. Fisheating Creek, a sanctuary for the soul, invites you to surrender to the embrace of nature's tranquility. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/315/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fec-11.jpg Fisheating Creek 11 Winding its way through the heart of Florida's Everglades, Fisheating Creek is a meandering waterway that unveils a pristine wilderness, a sanctuary where nature's artistry reigns supreme. Its name, aptly derived from its abundance of fish, alludes to the vibrant aquatic life that teems within its depths. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/314/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fec-10.jpg Fisheating Creek 10 Deep within the heart of Florida, where the emerald embrace of the Everglades meets the shimmering waters of Lake Okeechobee, lies the tranquil haven of Fisheating Creek. This meandering waterway, aptly named for its abundance of fish, winds its way through a pristine wilderness, its banks adorned with a lush tapestry of cypress trees, their gnarled roots reaching out into the inky depths. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/313/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fisheating-creek-9.jpg Fisheating Creek 9 In this tranquil realm, where time seems to stand still, Fisheating Creek whispers tales of ancient civilizations, of intrepid explorers, and of the enduring beauty of nature's embrace. It is a place where one can escape the clamor of modern life and reconnect with the soul of the wilderness, a sanctuary of tranquility and rejuvenation. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/312/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fisheating-creek-fog.jpg Fisheating Creek fog Fog is the photographers friend, it creates light and atmosphere that are dreamlike. On this day, the fog held on for hours. This is one of my favorite places to photograph and this is my favorite image from my many years of photographing the creek. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/311/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fisheating-creek-7.jpg Fisheating Creek 7 Legends whisper of the intrepid Spanish explorer, Ponce de León, who traversed these very waters in his relentless quest for the elusive Fountain of Youth. While the fabled spring remained elusive, Ponce de León unwittingly stumbled upon a treasure of far greater value - the untamed beauty of Fisheating Creek and its surrounding wilderness. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/310/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fish-eating-creek-6.jpg Fisheating Creek 6 The ancient oak, a silent sentinel, has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, the changing seasons, and the ebb and flow of life. Its presence, a beacon of stability amidst the ever-changing world, offers solace and inspiration to all who seek its wisdom.As the sun sets on its extraordinary life, the ancient oak leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and beauty. Its fallen leaves, returning to the earth, nourish the soil, giving life to new generations of oaks, ensuring that the legacy of this majestic tree will endure for generations to come. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/307/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dr8-adj.jpg Hidden Hammock #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/305/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dl-8-23-1.jpg Dead Lakes #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/304/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dl-3.jpg Dead Lakes #5 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/303/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dl-2.jpg Dead Lakes #6 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/302/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dl-1.jpg Dead Lakes #7 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/301/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dl-16-24x36.jpg Dead Lakes #8 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/299/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/DL-8-on-1.jpg Dead Lakes #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/298/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dixie-mainline-3.jpg Salt Marsh Lower Suwannee Florida has a diverse variety of landscapes. Each region is unique and North Florida is no exception. This Salt Marsh looked soft and beautiful and the conditions were perfect to capture this scene. It's hard to beat early morning soft light. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/297/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/disston-5-adj.jpg Grey Cypress Lake #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/295/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/disston-1.jpg Grey Cypress Lake #3 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/294/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dead-lakes-3-2nd.jpg Dead Lakes #11 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/293/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Dead-Lakes-12.jpg Dead Lakes #12 The Dead Lakes are located in the pan handle of North Florida, on the western side of the Apalachicola National Forest. This mysterious place of ancient Cypress skeletons was created a couple hundred years ago during a severe flood that washed out the banks of the Chipola River and the Apalachicola river. This cypress slough was submerged so deep and so long that it killed most of the trees. Their early demise has also been their salvation, the ax-men weren't interested in harvesting dead trees so this lake has remained as a museum, each spectacular tree a monument. Many of these images were captured with an 8x10in wooden view camera and film https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/292/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dead-lakes-4.jpg Dead Lakes #13 Located near Tallahassee FL is the small town Of Weewahitchka, affectionately known by the locals as Wewa. The Dead Lakes is a very mysterious place, formed hundreds of years ago during a major flood event, the Apalachicola and Chipola Rivers overflowed their banks. It is thought that salt water from the Gulf of Mexico flowed north during the flood killing these ancient Cypress trees. I consider it to be a Cypress Tree museum. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/291/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/DB-Lighthouse-2.jpg Deerfield Beach Lighthouse#1 I don't photograph a lot of man made objects, but I make an exception when it comes to Light Houses. A friend of mine took me to this spot, difficult to access, but worth the effort. Captured on black and white film with my 4x5 view camera. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/290/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cypress-Spring-3.jpg Cypress Creek #1 On this beautiful summer afternoon, I came across this beautiful scene along a gently flowing spring fed creek. Captured on 4x5 film with my ebony wooden view camera. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/289/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Cypress-Spring-1.jpg Cypress Creek #2 Cypress Creek is one of the hundreds of spring fed creeks in Florida. A friend and I while on a photo excursion, happened upon this one and were thrilled to find it. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/288/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cascade-16.jpg The Walking Trees To me these Cypress looked like they were just out for a stroll. A very unusual North Florida place with some of the strangest trees I have seen. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/287/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cascade-11.jpg Tallahassee Swamp We have swamps from South Florida, all the way to the Western Panhandle. Each one is unique in its own way. My goal as a conservation photographer is to visit and document as many of them as I can. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/286/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cascade-6.jpg If Dr Seuss made trees This lake is located near Tallahassee Florida. The trees there look like something from Dr Seuss. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/285/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cascade-3.jpg Tallahassee Sink Located near Tallahassee is this unusual lake that often goes dry, exposing the usually submerged trunks. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/284/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/oak-hammock-3.jpg Fisheating Creek #3 Located in a very remote area of Fish Eating Creek is this beautiful Oak Hammock. Oak's don't grow in water but often live on the shores of our creeks. When the creeks flood, these beautiful scenes occur. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/282/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/broken-finger-2.jpg Broken Finger #2 Located in the Suwannee River Valley there are many beautiful areas, this area has some of the largest Bald Cypress I have ever seen. A few of us went out to this area to photograph one morning. There was a friend that was letting us stay at his home that joined us. Unfortunately he slipped on the slick rocks in the water and broke a finger. I named this image after his unfortunate mishap. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/281/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/bird-rookey-swamp-1.jpg Bird Rookery Swamp #1 Bird Rookery Swamp is part of the CREW trail system and protected land. This area is located next to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in North Eastern Naples. I'm fortunate that it is located about five miles from my home. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/280/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/boneyard-7.jpg Boneyard Near Talbot Island State Park in North East Florida is a driftwood beach affectionately referred to as the Boneyard. Every time I go there the beach and abstract scene has changed. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/279/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-lake-15.jpg Blue Cypress Lake #15 I wish Blue Cypress Lake was closer to my home, I would go there more often. The lake, like its name says is very Blue and beautiful. I captured this image with my wooden 8x10 inch view camera and film. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/276/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-lake-knees.jpg Blue-Cypress Lake Knees Cypress knees are one of the beautiful characteristics of Bald Cypress and Pond Cypress. There are many theories among botanists as to their purpose. The common conclusion is that they are used to store starch which can be converted into sugar as nutrient needed by the tree. This tree has an abundance of knees. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/275/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/take-a-bow.jpg Take a Bow I found this tree years ago and tried to create an image. I had a problem with my film developer and the image wasn't usable. I went back to this lake almost every year, but could never find this tree again. By luck, on a recent trip, I found it again and made this image. It was almost the one that got away. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/274/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-17.jpg Blue Cypress Lake #17 Blue Cypress Lake Is located North of Lake Okeechobee and West of Vero Beach, just outside of the booming town of Yehaw Junction. The lake is over 6500 acres with an average depth of eight feet. Many go there to photograph the abundance of Osprey that call this place home but I go there for the Cypress trees! The lake's name comes from the Blue appearance of the cypress trees as the morning sun's rays reflect off the Water. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/273/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-lake-18.jpg Blue Cypress Lake #18 I love making tree portraits, this cypress tree appears to have a face. It reminds me of the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast. It looks like the candlestick charachters. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/272/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/blue-cypress-lake-19.jpg Blue Cypress Lake 19 Located near Yeehaw Junction Florida is this amazing lake with ancient Cypress Tree growing in the waters along its shores. I love photographing trees standing in water, this lake is one of my favorite Florida places. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/271/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/joes-tree.jpg Joe's Tree Joe's Tree is the memorial on Blue Cypress Lake named after the late fishing guide Joe Middleton, who ran Middleton Fish Camp. This ancient Cypress tree is a real beauty and Joe is fortunate have this as a legacy. I captured this image with my view camera on 8x10 inch film https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/269/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/big-cypress-prairie-4.jpg Big Cypress Prairie #4 The Big Cypress National Preserve is the Western edge of the Everglades. I am so fortunate to have this area less than an hours drive from my home. I don't think people realize that they can walk into these areas. I find them to be quite safe and peaceful. I created this image with my digital camera that was converted to capture infrared. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/268/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/alligator-point-3-new.jpg Alligator Point Deep in the Ten Thousand Island National Reserve is the magical spot. Difficult to get to but so worth the effort. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/267/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/alligator-point-2-adj.jpg Dance of the Red Mangrove Alligator Point is a small Mangrove Island located deep in The Everglades National Park, in the Southern portion of the Ten Thousand Islands. I captured this image on 8x10 inch film with my wooden view camera. To me I think of this a the dance of the Red Mangroves. Everglades National Park https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/266/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/alligator-point-1-adj.jpg Dance when no one is watching The Ten Thousand Islands, located off the coast of southwest Florida, are a chain of islands and mangrove islets stretching between Marco Island and the mouth of the Lostmans River. Despite their name, there are only a few hundred islets in the chain, but they create a labyrinth of waterways and mangrove forests that offer a unique and enchanting natural environment. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/264/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/4-start.jpg Land of the Giants #4 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/263/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/cypress-lake-stillness.jpg Cypress Lake Stillness Cypress trees are able to grow in lakes due to their unique adaptations to waterlogged environments. The roots of cypress trees contain aerenchyma, which are air-filled spaces that allow oxygen to transport throughout the root system even when submerged in water. This is crucial for respiration and nutrient uptake. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/262/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/dixie-mainline-dream.jpg Dixie Mainline Dream Dixie Mainline is a 30-plus mile road that runs through the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge in Florida. It was originally built in the 1920s as a tram road to transport timber out of the swamps and forests. After logging ended in the 1940s, the road was not maintained until the 1960s, when another timber company refurbished the road and wooden bridges. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/261/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/myakka-river-in-the-rain.jpg Myakka River in the Rain A Tapestry of Natural Wonders Spanning over 37,000 acres, Myakka River State Park is home to a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, including wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. The meandering Myakka River, a designated Florida Wild and Scenic River, gracefully winds through the park, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for the region's rich flora and fauna. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/260/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/oak-in-the-rain.jpg Oak in the Rain I captured this image on a day when the Creek was flooded and a light rain was coming down. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/258/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/big-cypress-slough.jpg Big Cypress Slough Sloughs can be found in a variety of environments, including prairies, marshes, and bogs. They are an important part of the ecosystem, providing habitat for a variety of plants and animals. Sloughs are also a valuable resource for recreation, such as fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/257/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/everglades-slough.jpg Everglades Slough A slough is a type of wetland that is typically found in lowland areas, often along rivers or streams. It is characterized by shallow, stagnant water, often covered in a layer of muck or silt. Sloughs are typically surrounded by reeds, cattails, and other wetland plants. The Big Cypress Preserve has many sloughs and each one is a dark mysterious place. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/256/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/everglades-slough-5.jpg Everglades Slough #5 Pond apple trees, a common sight in the Big Cypress National Preserve, play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of this unique ecosystem. Their presence provides habitat and sustenance for a wide range of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and feral pigs. The fruits, though not particularly appealing to human palates, serve as an essential food source for these animals, ensuring the continuation of the food chain. Moreover, pond apple trees contribute to the structural integrity of the swampy terrain, their deep roots anchoring the soil and preventing erosion. Their leaves, with their distinct aroma, add to the sensory richness of the Big Cypress, imbuing the air with a subtle fragrance that evokes the essence of the swamp environment. In essence, pond apple trees are integral components of the Big Cypress ecosystem, their presence contributing to the overall health and diversity of this remarkable natural sanctuary. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/255/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/pond-apple-slough.jpg Pond apple slough Sloughs are a valuable and ecologically important part of the landscape. They provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals, and they play a role in water filtration and flood control. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/253/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/myakka-rain.jpg Myakka Rain Rain is difficult to work in but, it creates an atmosphere in the scene that is unique and worth the effort. When the Myakka State Park floods, it becomes a magical place. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/252/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/the-place-where-fish-were-eaten.jpg The Place Where Fish Were Eaten The name "Fisheating Creek" comes from the Seminole name "Thlothlopopka-Hatchee," which translates to "the river where fish are eaten." This name reflects the abundance of fish in the creek, which has been an important source of food for the people who have lived along its banks for centuries. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/250/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/memorial-tree.jpg Memorial Tree Located on the Fisheating Creek, the Memorial Tree is an example of a beautiful Bald Cypress https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/248/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC1820.jpg Pine Island Fish House #10 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/247/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/Lovers_key_remnants.jpg Remnants on the Beach Lovers Key is a beautiful Florida State Park located North of Fort Myers Beach. This image was captured on one of my digital infrared cameras. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/245/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC0032.jpg Cape Romano Dome's #1 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/244/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/_DSC0029.jpg Cape Romano Dome's #2 https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/243/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/fisheating-creek-29.jpg Fisheating Creek #29 I captured this image with my wooden view camera and black and white film on Fisheating Creek several years ago. One of my many tree portraits. https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/242/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/FF1A9B53-7A2C-41AD-B1EB-48BDF131A03E.jpeg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/241/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/85CB4719-0E4D-4D21-849A-0FAB408978A8.jpeg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/240/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/F5C28027-77F0-47F3-8218-5A33099EC65A.jpeg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/239/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/643D03FC-F6AB-46E1-B6BC-401239C1DAE4.jpeg https://www.timeandlight.com/photo/238/ https://www.timeandlight.com/images/xl/9B3AD636-DBB1-47AF-913C-EB7ADEFB8F3F.jpeg https://www.timeandlight.com/news/ https://www.timeandlight.com/contact/