Day: March 16, 2026

Lens-Artists Photo Challenge #139 - Special Moments

Published on by Russell Smith9 Comments

I took this photograph on June 20, 2026 in Maui. I was driving the Road to Hana and pulled over. Walking into the forest I came across this waterfall where people were jumping into the reservoir below. Luckily I had a waterproof disposable camera, so I was able to join in the fun. The very next day, I turned 40 years of age. A special moment indeed.

I took this photo on September 16 of last year. I was having a difficult time making any sort of a decent capture with my camera. The strap got a bit tangled around my wrist, and while trying to untangle it, I inadvertently snapped this shot. Another special moment.

Baltimore is one of those cities with a lot of one way thoroughfares. If you make a wrong turn, unless you’re very familiar with the city, you will get lost in a heartbeat. That’s what happened to me. The day was winding down and I was beginning to panic because rush hour was on the verge of beginning. I saw this view in my rearview mirror and decided to take advantage. I stopped my car, hopped out and took this shot. The people behind me in traffic were less than pleased, but I saw many cars taking my same route.

Color Your World: Silver

Published on by Russell SmithLeave a comment

Thank you to Tourmaline for hosting the Color Your World Challenge. For the week of March 16, 2021, the color is silver.

Both photographs are from the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Maryland. It is closed right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, once it reopens, I strongly encourage anyone nearby to make the trip. It’s an amazing structure, as it is loaded with history. For instance, it’s the only state house to have served to house the Congress of the United States.

Ragtag Daily Prompt: Storm

Published on by Russell SmithLeave a comment

The wind kicked up at a terrible pace, causing the banners to flutter furiously, nearly knocking the banner men off of their feet. The horses kicked up and whinnied angrily. GarGar, le Comte des Deux Chats was usually in a jolly mood, but at this time, his frustration was getting the better of him. It was bad enough that Princess Pirouette had absented herself from the duck hunt, but she didn’t even send word that she wouldn’t be coming. The gathering storm clouds seemed to match his inner turmoil, dark and foreboding.

“The hunt is over!” GarGar shouted, straining to be heard over the cacophony of voices, rushing wind and whinnying horses. “There are refreshments in the hall. My grooms will take your horses to the stables.” With a jaunty wave of his hat, he rode into the direction of his palace. Doing his best to shake off his disappointment, GarGar was already devising the next opportunity to meet the object of his affection, the young and beautiful Princess Pirouette.