Nikki’s Photography

This is not a black and white photo – the sky was ominous that day my friends!  :}

The Gateway Arch in  St. Louis, Missouri was built in 1965, commemorating Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States. One of the most influential people in the history of  United States, Thomas Jefferson (1743 – 1826) was the the third U.S. president and author of the Declaration of Independence.

Neighborhood Cypress, a favorite subject and series of photos taken at various times of day, seasons, and weather conditions since 2004. Lewisville, Texas

Autumn storm near Taos, New Mexico. Wildflowers: Bird’s Beak 

I recently watched a very interesting documentary about the perilous state of our planet, and things we can do to affect the course of necessary change. Narrated by Leonardo Dicaprio I highly recommend seeing this film,  The 11th Hour 

Eight thirteen p.m. That’s the time it was when I last saw the Giant Sequoias, hopefully not for the last time. It was dark but there was still enough light left to take the last chance for one more photo.

Sky was the vivid blue that lasts only for a few moments before the last effects of sun disappear. It was the kind of blue where you check around and can’t distinguish any green from the next on the sillhouettes against it…so you’re sure it’s definitely dark… but wondering how could such a dark color be glowing so brightly? That blue is going to be the star, and have stars, in one of my next paintings.

This is the most glorious tree in our neighborhood. It’s across our back alley and has been a favorite subject for many years because the silhouette is so beautiful against any sky during any season or time of day. The photo was taken nine days ago during the almost full moon on September 12th.

OK, so the subject of sunflowers grows weary and cliche for some, but the plant has so much character, especially when the flower heads droop with the weight of seeds. Sunset is spectacular tonight with their swaying sillhouettes against the sky.

I was just coming home from shopping so I missed capturing the double rainbow arching over our neighborhood after a short storm. Both ends were visible, and rare sights like that are so electrifying! I hurried home to get the camera, then still managed a few shots of the golden glow accentuating everything as the sunset.

Storm in Calgary, Alberta

I have yet to see a tornado in Texas since we moved there, yet here is the first one I’ve ever seen, about to touch down in Airdrie, near Calgary Alberta  while we’re on holidays.

Watching it form is surreal, and though it’s not far away I don’t feel in any danger. It formed a perfect funnel then I watched it pull back again, spawning a skinny long string-like tornado, then dissolve.

The associated clouds are ominous and dark in contrast to the sunny neighborhood where I’m standing. I learned later this afternoon that the tornado touched down in a farmer’s feild for a few moments.