Daveland Blog Anniversary: 15 Serendipitous Years

It’s hard to believe that fifteen years have gone by since I wrote my first blog post, but yes…that’s the case. Like all things, the blog has changed over the years, going from seven days a week to M-F (or less if I decide it’s time to disconnect).  It’s called Daveland after all, so I have allowed the blog to reflect the multitude of interests I have held through the years, rather than strictly Disneyland content. Being a Gemini who truly believes in serendipity, I have found that when I allow the Universe to take control, amazing experiences can happen. As a result, I plan to put out a book within the next year, featuring vintage images from my personal collection alongside the photos I have shot myself. There’s been a lot of travel, wall climbing, and exploration of hidden places going on the last 40 years or so and it’s time for me to celebrate it!

I have the book segmented into chapters about Disneyland, James Dean in Indiana…

and in Hollywood:

My work as a tour guide for the restoration of the West Baden Springs Hotel in Indiana:

I will probably work in my love for Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture (just not sure how, yet).

and some of the cool peeps I have gotten to know along the way, like Tippi Hedren:

The Chateau will take up a few pages I am sure, as it is my home away from home.

The book wouldn’t be complete without my obsession for Shirley:

And my faithful companion, Willis, who brings me joy every day.

Stay tuned for updates. See more photos at my main website.

Family Session in La Jolla

As I start to get more photography gigs, I continue to experience new situations. This was my first "official" family portrait session, and also my first one dealing with an infant. On the day we shot at La Jolla Cove, it was little Amelia's first birthday. As you can see, there was a watermelon theme going on here. I wasn't crazy about the burlap fabric that her mom had brought, so I moved things out to the grassy area. MUCH better!



The Mercedes Benz toy car was a fantastic prop, and Amelia was posing like a pro. Despite the horrid heat that afternoon, she didn't get fussy once.



Even managed a shot of the entire family! Although Amelia was great, I learned that it would have benefited me to have a squeaky toy of some kind to get her attention. At times, she was focused on other things and not looking at the camera, which caused mom and dad to get involved, which meant that THEY weren't looking at the camera. It was a lot to juggle, but all part of being a photographer.



Amelia's mom also brought out letters so that we could create a triptych spelling out her age.



By the time we got around to these family shots, Amelia was doing better than the rest of us adults. IT WAS HOT!



Overall, everyone was really pleased with the results (which makes me happy, too).



See more Daveland photos at my main website.