Happy New Year!

May God be with you in 2014!

Happy New Year !!!

from

Allen Pearson's Photos

and 

From the Dog's Paw

Photographing The Seasons - Log in Walney Pond

"Log In Walney Pond"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

When I participated in art shows, outdoor art festivals and art exhibits, my theme was finding the unique beauty in nature.  I don't use PhotoShop, and don't say anything against anyone or does, but my thought was that nature didn't need any help from me as it is naturally beautiful- I just had to capture that on my camera.

"Log in Walney Pond" was taken on a cold day in January about midway through the month- which is generally one of my favorite times of the season as the days are starting to get longer and Spring doesn't seem far away.

Sunday Thought

Two thousand years ago an amazing thing happened. Love came down.

Love came down from Heaven. Love spent 33 years on this earth. Love gave up his life so we could live ours.

How profound is this truth! How heart changing. How life shattering.

We are here because a son ransomed His life so we could be free from the chains of sin.

A few days ago we celebrated this momentous occasion with Christmas.

There were gifts. There were songs sung. There were shouts and laughter.

But how many thoughts were there of the real gift of Christmas?

The savior coming down to earth. The 33 years spent as a human, yet God. The death on a cross. The resurrection.

These are the thoughts that should go through our minds when we think of Christmas.

Not of toys. Of presents. Of time off from work.

No, no, no.

Our thoughts should race towards our savior. The lowly birth. The gift of eternal life.

We've got a chance to shift our thinking. We can focus on the real reason for Christmas this coming year.

Let this new year be the beginning of a new pathway of thoughts. Let our minds be focused on the king of kings, the lord of lords, the prince of peace.

Let's get our thinking off of ourselves. Let's get our thinking off of others. Let's get our thinking onto the one who gave us the greatest gift of all.

Jesus Christ...

This is a guest post by Joseph Lalonde. He is a youth leader at Oak Crest Church of God and leadership blogger at JMLalonde.com. Joseph shares leadership tools and encourages you to become a better leader. He's recently released his first eBook, Leadership Is Dangerous that you can get for free by going here. Connect with him on Twitter or at his blog.

Photographing the Seasons - Snow and Red Berry

"Snow and Red Berry"
(C) Allen Pearson,
All Rights Reserved

Looking for the beauty in winter as a friend kindly suggested I do, I came across this red berry against a new fallen snow.  I thought the simplicity of it created a beautiful image of winter.  "Snow and Red Berry" was captured in a park in Falls Church, Virginia.

Friday's Foto - Dog Photography by Allen

(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Dog Photography.  One of my favorites aspects of it is meeting the many dogs and their humans (as Noah puts it).   Each human has a story about how great and perfect their dog is- and in some cases the human and dog even look alike which is solely meant as a compliment.  If you asked me how great and perfect my dog is, you'd better be prepared to chat awhile.

My Dog Photography work is about capturing the true dog for a client or a rescue organization.  In other words, though I might take a creative angle shot like this one, or only shot a partial of the right side or left side of the face, but I don't use any computer software programs to enhance the dog's beautiful nature.

What I enjoy most when working with clients is producing photos of their dog or cat that they cannot capture because their pet thinks they want to play.  Camera comes out, pet goes into play mode- at least that's what happens at my house!
 

Dog Photography by Allen Pearson

(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Over the past few years, my passion has turned to Dog Photography.  I'd been wanting to explore this area for awhile when I was asked by PetConnect Rescue, which is where I got my dog Noah, to photograph a dog that wasn't getting much attention.  And, I was hooked.

The adoption coordinator who contacted me loved my work and I indicated I loved doing it- so she kept me busy with several dogs to photograph on weekends. I was hooked- to say the least.

Now, I spend time photographing for several rescue organizations and one charity- all volunteer-  but it settles my desire to help other dogs to find their "Forever Home."

Merry Christmas!

"Snow Christmas Tree"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"She will give birth to a son, 

and you are to name Him Jesus,

because He will save His people from their sins."

-Matthew 1:21

Merry Christmas
from
Allen Pearson's Photos
and
From the Dog's Paw

Christmas Quote

"Christmas Poinsettias" 
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"Who can add to Christmas? 

The perfect motive is that God so loved the world. 

The perfect gift is that He gave His only Son.

The only requirement is to believe in Him.

The reward of faith is that you shall have everlasting life."

~Corrie Ten Boom 

Christmas Quote

"This is Christmas: 

not the tinsel, 

not the giving and receiving, 

not even the carols, 

but the humble heart 

that receives anew the wondrous gift, 

the Christ."

Frank McKibben

Sunday's Thought

"Christmas Candles"
GraphicStock-Used by Permission

"The very purpose of Christ's coming into the world

was that He might offer up His life as a sacrifice for the sins of men. 

He came to die. This is the heart of Christmas."

--Rev. Billy Graham

Photographing the Seasons - Red Berries in the Snow

"Red Berries in the Snow"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

With Christmas a few days away, and December Solstice today, I thought I would share this photograph taken of red berries on a bush after a light snow. Red Berries in the Snow is a simple photograph celebrating the winter season.

Firday's Foto - Photographing The Seasons - Snow Through the Leaves

"Snow Through the Leaves"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

As I've mentioned a few times, a friend of mine loves the winter months.  She enjoys the snow, ice and the darker colors, like shades of brown, associated with the season.  When she mentioned that I needed to learn to enjoy winter, I listened to her comments and began an interesting journey of discovery.

One of my favorite images to come from the journey is "Snow Through the Leaves" where I simply looked straight down and focused on the new fallen snow.  The beauty of the delicate snow falling directly on the old fall leaves forming a pattern of the leaf is beautiful to me.

Photographing the Season's - Marian and Marvy's Walney

"Marian and Marvy's Walney"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Right's Reserved

One of my most favorite works was inspired by two friends, actually a lady and her dog.   She loves walking her dog at Walney Park whenever she got a chance and showed me her favorite spot.  Having a lot of respect for her and her kindness, I created this image for her.

I worked probably for an hour adjusting the lighting and angles of my camera to capture this image.  As the sun came up, the leaves where illuminated so beautiful but had to work fast as the lighting would be changing quick.  In the end, "Marion and Marvy's Walney" turned out to be a favorite place for Noah and I too.

Photographing the Seasons - Orange Brilliance

"Orange Brilliance"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"Orange Brilliance" was taken at a park in Falls Church, VA on a cloudy, rainy day.  The sunshine being hindered by the clouds brought out the brilliance of the leaves in the tree.  The rain made the trees wood look dark adding to the expressive color.  

Photographing the Seasons - Pond Reflections

"Pond Reflections"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Pond Reflections was taken at Walney Pond on a chilly day in October.  I was experimenting with my camera trying to get images in the pond and got this one as the day clouded up.

Sunday's Thought

Ask to See Him

"Doubt?"
GraphicStock

I was feeling so overwhelmed with doubt again that I was frustrated beyond means, it seemed.  I've been in church all my life and heard all the songs, Bible stories, sermons and all the familiar cliches that you can imagine.  My wonderings if there really is a God came burning through my mind.  After all, I can't prove He exists.  I can't prove that the Bible is true.  My mind goes so analytical on things sometimes it drives me crazy but I was taught to question all things and not all believe what you hear and read.  After 50 years of church and hearing about God, the faith waned a bit and doubt hit full force.  It hurt. It was frustrating.  But, is there a God.  Is He really there and does He really care about me and my miniscial needs or wants as silly as they can be.

I contacted a friend who is a pastor and he told me to "keep the faith" which is exactly what I was doubting and wondering why I should continue as worn out and tired as I was feeling.

As the doubt was overwhelming me, I saw a potential struggle coming into my life in the next few days.  Something I don't want to share but it was a concern that no one could really help me with- those who I depended on are away taking care of an urgent matter.

As I laid down to sleep I prayed, "Lord, I'm tired of these doubt and faith struggles.  I need to see You.  Not hear about You but see You.  I have a struggle coming my way the next few days- please reveal Yourself to me in taking care of those struggles." I fell off to sleep-

I had a dream during the night.  Someone asked me about myself for an interview.  I don't know why I was being interviewed now that I am awake.  But, one of the key questions was "Are you a Christian." My response was "Yes, I am... a conservative one with conservative theological beliefs-" but before I even finished the person who was interviewing me, left and I woke up.

GraphicStock

When I got up to begin my day, the dream stuck with me, as I checked how to go about my day since a snow storm is one the way.  As I learned of the day off, the Lord's Presence filled my studio-  I will go through rough times with doubt but hang on- He's there too!

Photographing the Seasons - Trees Over the River

"Trees Over the River"
(C) Allen Pearson
All Rights Reserved

I was hiking along the Potomac River not far from Great Falls National Park when I saw these "Trees Over the River".  The beauty of the outline of the trees with no leaves and reflecting into the river kept my attention. 

Friday's Foto - Photographing the Seasons - Fall Morning at Great Falls

"Fall Morning at Great Falls"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

One of the beautiful parts of nature photography is it's constantly changing.  I can go to the same place several times and get different images either because I missed it the first time or the lighting casts a different shade to it and creates something entirely different than the first time.

With "Fall Morning at Great Falls,"  I had a foggy morning to work with at Great Falls National Park, Great Falls, Virginia.  Great Falls presents many opportunities for a photographer to capture some great images, throw some fog or rain in and you've got a great mix for some exciting work.

Photographing The Seasons - Simple Beauty

"Simple Beauty"
(C) Allen Pearson
All Rights Reserved

Wednesday's Words

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: 

The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, 

and will call him Immanuel."

 -Isaiah 7:14

Photographing The Seasons - Frosted Bayberry Leaves

"Frosted Barberry Leaves"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

One of my favorite bushes is the Bayberry.  I have several on my property and enjoy them each spring and summer- except for the thorns, of course!

"Frosted Barberry Leaves"- was taken at the first frost.

Photographing The Seasons - Orange Fog

"Orange Fog"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

While working on a commission for a client, I was searching for the perfect fall scene to photograph. While hiking the trails at Walney Nature Center, I came across several places throughout the woods which were incredibly beautiful.

The early morning fog and colors of fall mixed beautifully to create "Orange Fog."

Sunday's Thought

Charlie Brown: "I guess I don’t really know what Christmas is about. Isn’t there anyone who understands what Christmas is all about?"

Linus: "Sure, I can tell you what Christmas is all about."

Linus: “And there were in the same country Shepards abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, ‘fear not, for behold, I bring you tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you. Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in the manger.’ And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men.’”

Linus: "That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

(Excerpt from "A Charlie Brown Christmas, 1965, Charles Schulz)

I grew up looking forward to watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" every year- and it didn't seem like Christmas to me until I saw it on TV- was an annual tradition for my brother, father, mother and I.  I didn't completely understand it's meaning or hidden meaning until I was much older. 

I knew Christmas was about celebrating the Birth of Christ, but I had things I wanted for Christmas and a long list at that!  Now, I'm not saying there's anything wrong with wanting something for Christmas.  That's a part of the celebration for every child and some adults too. 

As I've grown older, I learned that Christmas is about celebrating the Birth of Christ but, also, is about spending time with family and friends- those not related but are close to you!  Take the day to enjoy there company, create fun and exciting memories. My family goes to Christmas Eve service then the family gets together for dinner on Christmas Day.   It means quite a bit to have the day to spend with them since we're all running in different directions the rest of the year.

In the midst of the glitter, glamour, parties, celebrations, gifts, Christmas shopping, don't forget to thank Jesus for His blessings and to visit or spend time with the friends and family you haven't always had the time. 

Photographing the Seasons - Happy

"Happy"(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

I named this photography "Happy" because it's so cheerful.  I was walking through the park one day feeling a bit discouraged at how fast the summer went when I came across these leaves happily blowing in the wind.  Of course, that's what happens when nature's winds blow, the leaves do too, but these seemed to have a happy theme to them.

Friday's Foto - Photographing The Seasons - Fall Color at Little Rocky Run

"Fall Color
at Little Rocky Run"
(C) Allen Pearson,
All Rights Reserved

I have to admit, this photo is three years old.  At first, I didn't like it. I didn't capture what I set out to capture. I look back at it now and love the angle I took to capture the color of the leaves reaching across the stream.

Fall Color at Little Rocky Run is a good example of setting an image aside that's not necessarily bad, but just does work for you at the moment and returning later.

Have you ever done that with one of your photographs?

Photographing the Seasons - The Spiders Web

"The Spider's Web"
Credit: Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

One of my friends loves spiders and their webs.  I didn't know this when I was trying to capture an early morning photograph of "The Spider's Web." She's fascinated by the critters and their surroundings.  She hasn't seen this photograph yet, so am hoping to surprise her.

I created this image at a local park during a walk in the month of October.  The old saying many photographers use that goes, "I had to take 100's of shots to get a good one!" is certainly more than true with this one.  Attempting to capture this in the right lighting to show off the intricacy of the web was difficult to say the least.  Finally, by moving around and working with the settings on the white balance of my camera, I got this image.

Wednesdays Words

"Orange and Green"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"Worry does not empty tomorrow

of its sorrow;

It empties today of its strength."

-  Corrie Ten Boom

Photographing the Seasons - Splashes at Great Falls

"Splashes at Great Falls"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

A beautiful sunny early fall morning.  At least at my house when I left to head for Great Falls National Park.

When I arrived at the gate, I could see a heavy fog in front of me over the park.  Unhappy as I was wanting the morning light, sunrise, or as close as I could get since the park doesn't open until 7 a.m..

Realizing another rare opportunity lays right before me, I headed into the park and to the Potomac River overlooks.  Each overlook gives a different view of the river and the rocks.

The fog created a beautiful morning to shoot as it toned down the sun while bringing the brilliance of the colors to life.   Splashes at Great Falls brings out the beauty of the water splashing against the rocks while bringing out the brilliant detail of the rocks.

Lesson?  Don't miss the great opportunities afforded by fog.  

Photographing the Seasons - ATTENTION!!

"ATTENTION!!"
Credit: Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

My passion for nature and Photographing the Seasons goes beyond the normal or typical person's tastes.  Those who know me, are probably acknowledging that's not news to them- I've always been not normal or one to not go along with the crowd.  So, naturally, that would be part of my photography work.

Believe it or not, ATTENTION!! was not created by me.  It was created by God during the normal cycle of seasons which occur every year.  I happened to be strolling through the park one day in the chilly month of October, when I notice the leaf standing up in a puddle of water.  Thinking it was unique, I photographed it.

Sunday's Thought

"Sun Ray"
Used by Permission

What do you stand for?  What do you believe in?  Where do you want to go in life?  Many questions that I remember being asked in my younger years, teens and twenties, have come back over the past years or so as I headed toward my 50th birthday a few months ago.

It's a lecture or lesson most parents give there children when growing up.  Many times at that time in our lives we just pass it off as another parental nag.  I don't know about you, but after moving out from my parents I had to explore life a little.

Though, I never got into any major trouble or give my parents or family any issues, I did learn they were right.  You need to learn to stand for something or you'll fall for everything.   My parents said it, a few true friends said it, and some people of the church said it.  

Basically, if you can't take a stand for what you believe in, then you become a prime target for the first or next gimmick to come along.  What difference does it make? I wouldn't think someone would want to follow for any gimmick that comes along because you  can end up getting cheated, stolen from, ripped off or a victim of a serious crime.

Not long ago, I had to take a stand of my Christian beliefs- though not popular with most people these days- it was the right thing to do.  Not for the purpose of insulting someone or hurting someone or showing off  but standing up for what I believe. It felt great though- why?  I stood for something that I believe- didn't go along with the crowd.