Below are some images of the DLRfoto headquaters from the first moments on the island in Princeville. We wasted no time and embarked on a mini-tour by land in Kapaa, and one by air as we climbed aboard a tour plane for a 1 hour excursion around the island.

Special thanks to Jim Degnan for sharing with me and 6 others aboard the craft on his birthday. It was a pleasure to not only see him enjoy doing what he loves most, but was by far a privilege to partake on a venture as magnificent as this.

And uhh… the view wasn’t too bad either.

On our next explorations, we packed up the ride and headed west on Hwy 550 up through the various stopping points on Kokee Rd, through the Waimea Canyon and beyond. We picked up some local dried fruit snacks from local vendors before heading off to the trail head leading to a spectacular view of the Na Pali Coast. A nice dinner and cocktails (mainly Mai Tai’s) were enjoyed at the end of the day with good company.

{fast forward a few days… island time}

July 4th was one of reflection as our trip came to a close and as daylight gave way to night, we gathered our friends lovingly and proceeded to…

blow stuff up!!!

As time came closer and closer to our departing flight from the island, we managed to squeak out one more trip to a nearby beach. This time we chose Hanalei, which apparently is the home of Puff the Magic Dragon. True story, I can’t make this stuff up!

Check back within the next week to view an added page to the blog for purchasing prints as demanded by you, the people!

Again, a big congratulations to Aimee and Brad Degnan who are to be wed this Wednesday in lush Kauai, Hawaii. Last week we spent a relaxed day in San Francisco and hung out at a few places, and took a few shots along the way.

We are now in our destination spot and have already been on a couple photo ventures. One by land and one by air! More to come soon!

Right off the jump, I’d love to extend a special thanks to my gracious hostesses to the utmostesses, Amie and Nina for taking the time to show me Seattle and explore the beauty of their city. My impression from the trip is that it is a very warm and welcoming place where the people still hold the door for you everywhere you go. It is, from my perspective, a mindful and respectful society of its indigenous people and various cultures that dwell within. There is a certain unspoken sentiment when wandering through the downtown streets and alley ways – as if being reunited with a long lost friend.

The ladies took me to the annual Folk Life Festival, where folk music (and food) from all corners of the globe were celebrated. We then turned out attention to the spectacular Experience Music Project, which has collections of the very foundations of the music of Seattle.  Of course what tour isn’t complete without a ride to the top of the Space Needle?

Days later, we absorbed more of the cities history as we were guided through the Seattle Underground tour, where we saw lots of cool old stuff and learned about the evolution of the cities politics, infrastructure and social climate.

I highly recommend Seattle for anyone who is into music, art, culture, good vegan restaurants, and history.

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Thanks!

Frank(ie)

A day spent in one of my favorite places to play in the East Bay.

Thanks to everyone for the well wishes. It appeared to have worked and all of my friends’ safety have been accounted for. Thoughts still remain to those affected by the flooding in Machu Picchu and surrounding villages.

Today’s news of  the Chilean quakes has brought about many worries to my day. My thoughts immediately went out to all my friends and their families in Peru. When I received word of the devastated areas, my immediate actions were to reach out to everyone I knew in Chile’s northern neighboring country via facebook in hopes for the best. In recent weeks, it has been reported that  Machu Picchu suffered sever flood damages due to torrential downpours. This having happened a little over a month since my visit, coupled with the nearby quakes, have made my visit all the more precious.

Hawaii had also received news of a tsunami warning within hours of the quakes. It was to my relief to learn that the the state where one of my childhood friends live and where I will be shooting a wedding in June had no reports of any deaths, injuries or damages.

I have not received a reply from any of my friends in Lima, but still remain optimistic as communications are usually jammed up or disrupted during these times.

Today was a decent amount of progress and rest. Made some headway and plotted my route for WPPI in Vegas. I plan to land on March 7th and will post up at the MGM thru the 11th. Also took some time to speak with a potential client about shooting his orphanage facility in Peru. He is sending his information along to me to formulate a documentary style photo essay. Very promising things on the horizon. Lots to plan for and lots to complete still. Looking forward to my first destination wedding in Kauai, Hawaii on June 30th! Congratulations to you Aimee and Brad!

Day of the Dead as celebrated in the San Francisco, California