Photo Journal

Society of Environmental Journalists

2011-10-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

The Society of Environmental Journalists had

their convention in Miami and one of the side

trips was a swamp walk at our gallery. We had a

great time meeting so many people who maintain

our freedoms by educating us through their

writing, photography and films. Hope to see

them all down the road of life again!

Our adventure with the Society of Environmental Journalists

started at the Everglades Restoration Tamiami Trail

Bridge being built east of the Miccosukee Indians.

Joe Browder and Clyde getting their hard hats for

the excursion into the construction site.

Clyde and the Secretary of Interior,

Ken Salazar

Secretary Salazar explaining the purpose of the

bridge and future plans to save the Everglades.

(Currently the road that crosses this area is

composed of fill and blocks the flow of water

south into the Everglades. The new bridge will

allow the water to flow naturally.)

Secretary Salazar surrounded by journalists

while explaining the project

Colonel Pantano of the Corps of Engineers

explaining the project of building the bridge

Isabelle climbing the ladder

Isabelle at the top

Clyde climbing the ladder

On top of the bridge...wonderful view!

Craig Pittman and Clyde discussing the Everglades

and Big Cypress National Preserve.

Clyde talking to the journalists after their

adventure on the bridge

Everyone adjourned to Big Cypress Gallery.

Clyde meeting with Franklin Adams and

Michael Grunwald, author of "The Swamp",

a great book on the history and environment

of South Florida.

BobDeGross, Chief of Interpretation and

Public Affairs, explains the ecosystem of

Big Cypress and why it is slightly different

than the Everglades system

Superintendent Pedro Ramos introducing Joe Browder

and Franklin Adams, two of the founding "fathers" of

Big Cypress National Preserve. They were able to save

this huge beautiful acreage by making compromises

that allowed the Indians, hunters and people who

lived here to continue to do so. The land was created

into the FIRST National Preserve...not a National

Park. However, to this day the misunderstanding

concerning the fact it is a Preserve and not a Park

has caused many miscommunication as to its use.

Bob DeGross leading a group into the swamp

Joe Browder (on left) anxiously awaits the

opportunity to get back into the swamp

while Isabelle explains a little about the

ecosystem before walking into the swamp

Isabelle leading a group into the swamp

Isabelle explaining how wonderful

the plant called Bladderwort is for

the ecosystem

Isabelle explaining the bromeliad

Taking photos

Bob DeGross leading a group through

the swamp

Bob answering questions

Superintendent Pedro Ramos and

Clyde hugging a cypress tree

Clyde with JoAnn (who organized trip)

and Superintendent Pedro Ramos

Taking a photo of a fisheating spider

A little bit of a closer view of the image...

A great meal was served to us by

Camellia's in Everglades City

A relaxing lunch under our new Chickee that

was built by our neighbor, Leroy Osceola

Bob DeGross, Jackie, Isabelle and

Superintendent Pedro Ramos

Our afternoon was brought to a close with

a talk by Franklin Adams.

It was a wonderful day...beautiful weather &

great people! What more could we ask for?!

Gallery in Moscow, Russia

2011-10-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Gallery of Classical Photography

Savvinskyaya nab, 23, block B

Moscow

www.classic-gallery.ru

The Gallery of Classical Photography in Moscow, Russia has

acquired Clyde's photography for their new gallery. The gallery

exhibits only traditional film based photography:

Ansel Adams

Clyde Butcher

Jody Forster

Bob Kolbrener

Jeff Nixon

John Sexton

John Wimberly

This adventure with Clyde's work is amazing to us...and

gives us hope for a future where we can all work toward

accepting each other and our differences. It seems like

only yesterday that I was being taught to "duck & cover"

in preparation for an A-bomb strike during the

cold war with Russia...and now, here we are with

Clyde's images in a gallery in Moscow! Isn't life

an amazing and mysterious journey?

SATURDAY & SUNDAY - Labor Day Muck-About (swamp walk)

2011-09-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

The joy of being with people who love nature

and enjoy life filled our hearts during the Labor

Day weekend swamp walks. This time of year the

swamp is lush, green and filled with water.

The environment is like walking back in time to

the beginning of earth. There is a peace that

fills my heart every time I enter the swamp.

I'm glad so many others have that joy too!

John discussing the water flow for

the Everglades and Big Cypress

ecosystem.

Robbie found a lost soul/sole in the swamp

John discussing the ecosystem

John discussing the environment

Clyde with swamp guide, John Kalafarski,

Lunch under the chickee

Swamp guide Bob with his fiance Lynn

CONGRATULATIONS!

Firebush

Pond Apple

(or swamp apple)

Rick explaining the importance

of Periphyton to the ecosystem

A brave swamp walker holding

Pariphyton in her hand! Born to

be a biologist?

Rick discussing the ecosystem

Rick pointing out an orchid

Tree Huggers

Thanks to you all for coming to the Muck-About!

If you discovered that Florida has a hidden

beauty that few people know about, share the

discovery with others. Let them understand

that our state is a special place and needs

to be protected.

Niki, Clyde, Rick Cruz and Leslie

MONDAY - Labor Day Weekend Muck-About (Swamp Walks)

2011-09-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

Monday was another beautiful day...

Robbie became our chauffeur.

He had a ball running everyone

around the property in our new

electric cart. Here he is taking

Clyde up to the gallery.

Clyde signing books

A family who came prepared for

the mosquitoes! Good thinking!

Paul discussing the environment

with Duck Potato in foreground

Paul leading the group

At this point I let everyone pass and headed

back to catch the next group.

I found a great family group having

a pic-nic lunch

and then I headed back into the

swamp to catch up with whoever was

out there....

what I found was peace and

quiet...wonderful...

Trail

The trail. You can see the limestone

under the water. The reason the trees

are so short in this area is because

it is rock.

I finally found some folks enjoying the swamp

and joined Cody as he gave a swamp walk

Cody showing everyone the Periphyton

and explaining it's importance to the

ecosystem

Now here are two kids who are REALLY

prepared for the mosquitoes!

A great place for a family portrait!

John almost looks like the Skunk Ape peaking

through the bushes!

Jackie in the swamp with friends

So long to another great summer

swamp walk. It was wonderful spending

time with all of you out in the swamp

and talking with you in the gallery.

Share your experience with others to let

them know our environment in Florida

is something very special. THANKS!

---------------------------------------------------

We give a great big

THANKS!

to all of our swamp guides.

Their enthusiasm for the environment

and positive outlook on life makes

our time spent together one of joy

and satisfaction. We appreciate you!

John Kalafarski

John Schinault

Bob Nesmith, with fiance, Lynn - CONGRATULATIONS!

Rick Cruz

Brian Call

Paul Tilton

Cody Wishon

Rosie Markowski

Matt Parks

#10. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Last Day

2011-09-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

On our last day as Artists in Residence at the

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast we

were invited to the going away party of Jake

and Vera, the college summer students who

spent their summer helping the Foundation.

It was a wonderful way to honor their service

and a great way for us to say good-bye and

thanks to everyone.

Lee and Sean bringing out the hamburgers

Sean...the perfect man: a lawyer, loves the

environment and he COOKS!

Albert eyeballing the food...

Yummmy...

Lunch on the patio

Albert grabbed my camera because he felt

that since I'm always behind the camera

there should be at least one picture of me!

Thanks Albert!

We sadly leave the Conservation Foundation

of the Gulf Coast. We felt like family and will

miss their positive outlook on life and their

generosity of spirit.

We had a wonderful time and saw a lot of

country we had never seen before. It was

an adventure filled with beautiful scenery.

As soon as Clyde gets his film developed

and images processed, I'll post them on

the blog...I'll let you know.

In the meantime

THANKS, Conservation Foundation of

the Gulf Coast for inviting us!

#9. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Longino Ranch

2011-09-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Another rainy morning.

We debated whether to photographing, but this

morning we had the opportunity to enjoy

the company of both Robin - Director

of Programs and Albert Joerger -

Founder & President of the Foundation.

They are both so much fun and inspirational

to be around, we just couldn't miss this day

even if we didn't get a photo!

Rain, rain...

This is our last day for photography and

we'd really like a sunny day with nice

billowing clouds. Albert says, "No fear,

I'm here. By the time we reach the Longino

Ranch it will be sunny & bright!" ...and

it was!

Laura, from the Longino Ranch, showing

Albert, Robin & Clyde a map of the ranch.

AT LAST the rain has stopped and left behind

sunshine and a sky filled with wonderful clouds!

And so, we went in search of an entirely different

kind of photography than we have been doing

for the past two weeks.

As the sun came out the humidity and heat

increased, which made us glad that so much of

our photography while Artist in Resident was

in the cool of the rain!

We were fortunate to have both overcast rainy days

for photographing in the hammocks and at least

one bright sunny day for broad vista photography.

WONDERFUL!

Clyde and Albert

Albert under the dark cloth checking out the

image, while Clyde gets ready to show him

the dramatic difference an orange filter

can make to a scene.

Albert and Clyde discussing possible

photographic opportunities

While Clyde & Albert considered possible

photographs, I took a hike and explored

for more possibilities.

Tickseed

Albert helping Clyde with the darkcloth

Photographing the pine lands on the ranch

Elephants Foot

Albert just received a call letting him know

the money for saving the 190 acres on

Pine Island came through and the deal

has closed! What a great feeling to be

a part of saving such a large tract of land!

HOORAY!

Clyde, Robin and Albert jump for joy!

We arrived, once again, safely back to

the Conservation Foundation thanks to

the great driving of Robin. She has been such

a good sport driving us into areas where

only a 4-wheel vehicle will make it.

Thanks Robin!

The Board of Directors and the employees &

families joined in celebrating the success of

saving the 190 acres on Pine Island. It was a

wonderful experience to enjoy this time

with such a great group of people.

Our last night in "home sweet Carriage House home..."

#8. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Sarasota Crew

2011-09-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

We woke up to thunder and lightening that faded

away and left behind the constant drumming of rain.

Well, it was more of a mist than a rain.

While we were Artists in Residence, the Sarasota

Crew was having their summer camp. It was fun

to watch them every morning get their boats

ready and head out into the bay. I love sculling...

it's a beautiful thing to watch.

Due to the rain, we couldn't go out and photograph

so I got to spend some time photograph the summer

camp. FUN! After the thunder and lightening passed

the Crew gathered the kids around and had

a unanimous agreement that rain couldn't stop them

from sculling! The kids were really having fun sculling

in the rain. It's wonderful that the Bay Preserve is

allowing the Sarasota Crew to use one of their

buildings for their club activities and a place to

store their boats. It was a joy to watch.

For more information on the Sarasota Crew:

http://www.sarasotacrew.org

The rain just kept coming, so we spent the

time reading and relaxing...and enjoyed

watching the Sarasota Crew summer

camp kids play in the rain. They had a ball!

#7. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Pine Island

2011-09-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast,

Lee County, and High Point Land Improvement

Corporation, worked together to save 190 acres

of land on Pine Island. As we spent the day

out photographing the land we learned that there

were two days left to raise the $115,000 to

complete the contract to save the land. The

Conservation Foundation was working hard to come

up with the remainder and we offered to help by

asking all of you to join with us to save this wonderful

piece of property. Thanks to you the Conservation

Foundation met it's goal and the property was

saved! Thank you so much!

Lee showing map of property to

Robin and Clyde

Clyde with Robin, Director of Programs,

Lee of the Conservation Foundation

As the rain came down in bucketfuls

we sat in the car and waited...

As the storm passed, and just sprinkles

remained, Clyde took an opportunity

to take a photograph.

The rain drops look like someone

sprinkled diamonds on this plant.

The rain makes it difficult to

photograph, but the beauty of

the light is wonderful!

Lee holding umbrella as the rain

continues to fall

The rain stopped for a moment so

Clyde was able to take a photo

without worrying about the

movement of rain drops hitting

the plants.

Robin and Lee found a tiny flower

with an albino spider on it! None

of us had ever seen an albino

spider, so we were thrilled!

If you look closely you'll see an

albino spider on the flower.

Andrew, the photographer from the Ft. Myers

News Press, met us to take photographs for

a story the News Press was doing to help

highlight the urgent need for the last few

dollars to help save this wonderful piece

of property.

...and then, just as Clyde found a nice place

to take a photo, it began raining harder

It was raining so hard that Clyde had no

where to set down his backpack,

so Lee put it on his back and Clyde worked

out of the back pack there to set up his

camera, etc.

...neither rain, sleet, snow or bombs can keep

a journalist photographer from catching the image

he wants! Andrew was soaking wet by the time

he was finished!

As a violent thunderstorm barreled down on us

we headed for home through the field of tall

grass. It was a fun day even though it rained

for the majority of the day...again...but a

little rain never has stopped Clyde. It is the

lightening that stops him.

#6. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Flo

2011-09-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

Our day at the Carriage House began with a

wonderful visit by Flo and her assistant, Diane.

Flo created the opportunity to fix up the

Carriage House and establish the Artist in

Residence program for the Conservation

Foundation of the Gulf Coast. Flo has an artistic

background and understands the association between

artistic expression and the environment. It is

wonderful that she had the vision to be

so generous in supporting the arts.

Flo and Albert checking out Clyde's

film changing tent

Clyde telling stories

Albert Joerger, Founder and President of

the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf

Coast, with Flo --- two very giving

people. It's a joy to have them in our life.

It was great to meet Flo. She is an inspiration!

It would be a wonderful world if we all could

be so kind and generous hearted.

#5. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation - Walton Ranch

2011-09-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

Sean, Clyde, Chris

Our trip to the Walton Ranch with Sean - Director

of Land Protection & Robin - Director of Programs,

from the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf

Coast was a day filled with great photographic

opportunities...we just had to be prepared to

photograph in the rain!

As we drove into the ranch we ran into Chris

who is a land manager from Sarasota County.

Chris showed us a map of the ranch and pointed

out areas he thought might be of photographic

interest to us. Due to the struggle of trying

to photograph in the rain we didn't get to

see much of the ranch...but what we did see was

beautiful. Would love to go back and do more

exploring!

Sean and Clyde

Clyde with Robin holding umbrella

to protect the camera from the rain.

Fourpetal St. John's Wort

We found a beautiful palm hammock, so we stopped

and everyone got out and followed Clyde.

Before he took the camera gear into the hammock

he wanted to make sure it was photographable.

Palm hammocks look wonderful from the outside,

but when they are dense and have little sunlight,

the inside has no ground cover...just fallen palm fronds.

It means a good foreground hard to find.

However, this one had decent light and so after walking

around for a bit, Clyde returned to the car

and grabbed his gear.

Clyde setting up his camera

Sean, Clyde, Robin

Robin holding the umbrella

over the camera to keep

off the rain.

Since Clyde had all kinds of help

I took a short hike. I have always

wanted to see what the inside of

a palm hammock was like...truly

a beautiful place! I felt like I was

in some other country!

In the distance Robin is holding an

umbrella over the camera as the

rain comes down.

We left the hammock and found another

spot at an oak hammock. The rain let up

for a brief moment and we were able

to do some more photography.

Clyde showing Robin how the

light meter works.

Sean protecting the camera from the rain

An umbrella for the camera and

an umbrella for Clyde!

Rain rain....

Trying to capture one more photo

and then the heavens opened up

and it was time to leave...

The rain just didn't seem to want

to stop, so we packed up the car

and headed home.

What a wonderful adventure searching

for photographic opportunities on such

a beautiful ranch! It was a great day and

even though we had lots of rain, the light

was perfect.

#4. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation - Manatee River

2011-09-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Our trip this afternoon was with Sean -

Director of Land Protection for the

Conservation Foundation. He was our guide

while visiting Lee and Carol Ann who

have set aside their property along the

Manatee River for preservation. Their

generosity and positive attitude toward life

and the future is a blessing to us all!

Sean took us out to the local hot spot, Linger

Lodge, along the Braden River. Linger Lodge is

an old Florida funky restaurant...great food

and LOTS of stuffed animals.

Sean and Clyde in front of gator at

Linger Lodge

Clyde tickling the foot that is

hanging out of the gator's mouth.

Sean carrying Clyde's camera gear.

It's great to have a young back

around to help with the load!

Sean handing Clyde the orange filter

Sean handing Clyde his film

Carol Ann under the dark cloth checking

out the image the Clyde is taking.

Lee getting his turn under the dark cloth

Sean getting his turn under the dark cloth

Sean, Clyde, Carol Ann and Lee

We had a beautiful morning spending

time with two great people.

#3. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation Gulf Coast - another morning at Casey Key

2011-09-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Clyde was peacefully

drinking his morning cup of

tea when I woke up and saw a

beautiful big thunderhead over

Casey Key. I jumped out of bed,

we grabbed our camera gear and a

bagel then headed for the beach.

Another beautiful morning storm

at Casey Key...and, once again, just

when we thought the day was done

another rainbow showed it's

beautiful face!

As the storm covered up the sun

we got perfect even light for

photographing the conservation

area that the Foundation has

preserved.

walk to the beach through the

conservation area

on the way to the beach...

Whitemouth Dayflower

It's difficult to see in this photo,

but Clyde is photographing another

rainbow!

We couldn't believe our good fortune...

another rainbow! Amazing!

Railroad Vine

We spent the afternoon resting and

recuperating from the heat. Clyde also

loaded more film in his changing tent.

It was another beautiful day with many

wonderful photography opportunities...

#2. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast - Siesta Key, Casey Key & Myakka State Park

2011-09-10T14:23:00.000-07:00

The boardwalk down to the beach

at Casey Key

We got to Casey Key just as a

morning storm came rolling in.

Lots of dramatic light and clouds,

then it covered the sun and then

just when we thought the whole

event was over a rainbow came out!

I was so glad we got there in

time to capture it!

Clyde photographing the morning

storm rolling in off the Gulf.

When I saw the rainbow I dashed

down to the beach, not even thinking

I might be in Clyde's photo! I just

wanted to capture this beautiful

moment with my camera.

Fortunately, later Clyde told me

I wasn't in his picture...whew!

We spent the afternoon at Siesta Key on

property the Conservation Foundation

saved. It is the nesting place of the Snowy

Plover...a tiny, cute little bird that

nests on the ground.

Sea Grape bush

Spending the day on both Siesta Key

and Casey Key was absolutely

wonderful! Oh how fortunate we

are to be out in the world enjoying

it's beauty!

The next day we got up before the

sun came up and drove out to

Myakka State Park.

Clyde wanted even light, so

he needed the sun to be at just

the right point (dawn before it

comes over the horizon). We

arrived at Myakka to a pretty

sunrise...

It was so dark when I took this image

of Clyde that I'm amazed it came out!

The minute the sun came up it

was like someone turned on a

sauna...it was hot and humid to

the max! It was enough to convince

us to head home...AND the light

was now splotchy, so photography

was done at Myakka for the day...

We purchased a 'baby carriage' for

our bikes so we can take camera gear

along with us when we bike, or use it

as a camera carriage when we are hiking

over simple trails. It came in real handy

at Myakka.

Came "home" after Myakka and collapsed

with a good book. The heat really got to

both of us, but it was a beautiful morning!

#1. Artist in Residence - Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast

2011-09-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Driving down the road leading to Bay Preserve

where the Conservation Foundation of the

Gulf Coast is located.

Clyde has been honored by being invited to be

the first Artist in Resident by the Conservation

Foundation of the Gulf Coast at

the Bay Preserve. It is a great organization and

we're looking forward

to spending two great weeks with them!

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf

Coast is a private non-profit that works with

landowners, businesses, and government to protect

and preserve the beauty and natural integrity

of the bays, beaches, and barrier islands that

make the Gulf Coast special.

The Foundation purchases natural areas, holds

land preservation agreements, and educates for

responsible stewardship. The Foundation also

serves as the land acquisition agent for Sarasota

County's acclaimed environmentally sensitive lands

program, their neighborhood parks program,

and is a partner in efforts to preserve Florida's

natural heritage.

For more information:

www.conservationfoundation.com

Clyde at the sign...just like a tourist!

The main office of the Sarasota Conservation

Foundation of the Gulf Coast at the

Bay Preserve.

The Artist in Residence is located

in the Carriage House. The Foundation

has completely re-done the apartment

and made it into a warm and inviting

space...beautiful!

Pam and Robin got us all settled

into our home for two weeks. Truly

a beautiful place!

Clyde & Robin checking out some

property on Casey Key the Foundation

has preserved. Beautiful, but the

light wasn't right, so we'll return later.

Robin took us to a piece of property

on Manasota Key the Foundation

is saving. We had a great time hiking

around in the jungle looking for

photos!

Making it down the trail

Clyde & Robin

some amazing looking seed pods

Back at the Bay Preserve enjoying

a nice walk around their beautiful

property.

Dock and boat house

Looking toward Bay Preserve from

the Boat House

The yard at Bay Preserve

It has been a beautiful day and I

know it will be a wonderful week!

Kayla in the darkroom

2011-09-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

Kayla joined us for a day working

in the darkroom. It was great

to have her there!

Kayla enjoyed working in the darkroom

it's quiet and peaceful...besides it's fun

to play in water!

Kayla & Niki working in the darkroom

Checking out Ft. Desoto...

2011-09-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

Ft. Desoto is a great place...as all the people

who enjoy it can agree! We spent the day

checking out possible photographic

locations, but the masses were also out

enjoying the place too! We will have to return...

An area for photography

Clyde checking out possible location

for a shot. You can't see it in this image

but on the near horizon were a bunch

of folks having a pic nic...

It was a beautiful day, but way too many folks

enjoying the great beach and warm waters for

Clyde to take any photos. Lots of opportunities

for photography, so we'll come back again but

in our boat next time!

Myakka State Park

2011-08-16T17:40:00.000-07:00

We spent an early morning at Myakka State Park

As we entered the park Clyde notice a beautiful

scene right in the parking lot! He always says you

don't get any extra points for being a mule...often

the beauty is right in front of you. You get points

for keeping your eyes open!

It seems like everywhere we turn in Myakka there

is a wonderful scene to photograph! We're looking

forward to spending lots of time here...

Kayla in the darkroom

2011-08-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

Kayla and Clyde going over test strips

We spent the day with out grand daughter working

in the darkroom. It was a wonderful experience to

share what we love with Kayla.

Kayla enjoying the printing process

Niki and Kayla playing in the darkroom

We had a great day in the darkroom with Kayla.

She had lots of very good questions, and quickly

understood the technique of handling the prints.

Can't wait until she has some of her own to develop!

The Invasion of Paradise - Interview

2011-08-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

Clyde being interviewed by Steven Peterson for his film titled The Invasion of Paradise. This is a film addresses the age-old conflict of man vs nature by investigating the ongoing saga of South Florida and the Everglades - a literal border between modern development and a vulnerable ecosystem.

Gallery of Classical Photography - Moscow, Russia

2011-08-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce Clyde's photography is now being shown at the Gallery of Classical Photography in Moscow, Russia at Savvinskaya nab, 23, block B.

Having Clyde's work in Russia seems amazing to us...seems like not to long ago we were in deep fear of each other and today Clyde is in a gallery in Moscow! Absolutely, wonderful and proof that if we try we can work together.

Sarasota Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast

2011-05-28T12:40:00.001-07:00

Albert Juerger, Executive Director of the

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast

introducing Clyde

The Foundations office

Enjoying conversations on the front porch

surrounded by great people and

beautiful weather

Clyde signing books

and more books

Take Your Child to Work Day

2011-05-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Robbie was lucky for the "Take Your Child to Work Day"...

his parents and grandparents all work in the same

place, so he got to work with all of us!

Clyde, Robbie and Neal

Getting the chemicals ready

Neal & Robbie

What's a darkroom without a

yellow rubber ducky?

Clyde going over test prints

with Robbie

Developing a print

Jackie working with Robbie to design

the cover of our next book

Florida House - 2011 Distinguished Artist Award

2011-05-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

Clyde was honored with the Florida House

2011 Distinguished Artist Award. We traveled

up to DC to receive the award where we met

the Trustees of the Florida House, members

of both the Florida House of Representatives

and our Florida Senators.

Every trip to DC is an educational experience

and this was no exception. We met a lot of

very influential folks and it was fun hearing

the variety of opinions from everyone.

Flor those of you who don't know what the Florida

House is: Florida is the only state that has an

embassy in DC...the Florida House. So, if you are

a resident of Florida and are traveling in DC

and would like a place to rest in peace and

quiet while you're seeing the sites, stop by

and enjoy the Florida House.

On our way into DC

Bart Hudson, Executive Director of the Florida

House presenting the Florida House

2011 Distinguished Artist Award to Clyde

Clyde & Niki with the

2011 Distinguished Artist Award

Clyde with our favorite Senator...Senator Nelson

The Florida House

The Florida Representatives from the House

and our two state Senators came and talked

to us. We were amazed that they found the

time because the final vote on the budget

cuts were going to happen the next day! It

was great to hear them express their opinions,

even if sometimes we didn't agree. It's fun to

see democracy in action.

Washington DC is always an amazing place

to visit. Every time we see our nations

capitol I am filled with pride. We had a

wonderful time.

On the way home we stopped by the

Boone Hall Plantation to see some

of the history of the old south.

Boone Hall Plantation is famous for

it's avenue of oak trees leading up

to the house

Clyde using my iPhone to take a photo

Looking down the oak avenue with

the plantation home behind us

Niki in the garden with plantation

home in the background

Beautiful flowers in the garden

Learning about the history of the

black community during the

slavery period

Clyde and Niki with an incredible oak tree

We took a tram tour of the property

A field of lavender in bloom

Azalea's in bloom everywhere

Darkroom Lecture

2011-05-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

Since we have such a great time talking with

photographers, we decided to try something

new...a darkroom lecture that aims at

discussing the different aspects of photography.

We had a great turnout and Clyde enjoyed

the photographic conversations and questions.

Kissimmee Basin ~ The Northern Everglades

2011-05-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

The documentary, Kissimmee Basin - The

Northern Everglades, is coming to a

conclusion. I can't wait to see the whole thing!

Elam has had some wonderful educational

experiences and wishes he could share all

of them with everyone, but he's going to do

the best he can within the hour format.

Clyde met Elam, Joe and Carlton Ward at

the Kissimmeee to film the introduction and

conclusion statements of the film. Clyde is

NOT an actor, so following a script was a

VERY BIG challenge. It took quite a while,

but Elam thinks that maybe...just maybe with

some editing, I might have succeeded,

otherwise I am up for a retake some time later.

Nevertheless, it was a great time to be outdoors

with great company. We had a good time together.

Elam Stoltzfus, award winning film

maker with Clyde

Enjoying some conversation time with

Carlton Ward

Putting the microphone on Clyde

Elam directing Clyde

Venice Gallery & Studio Open House & Lecture

2011-05-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

The annual Venice Gallery & Studio Open House

and Lecture was a wonderful success. We had a

great time visiting with the many folks who

had never seen Clyde's work. It's always fun

sharing Florida with people who love Florida!

Venice Gallery & Studio

Clyde signing books

Neal giving a talk about the darkroom

One of our neighbors loaned us the use

of their building for the lecture.

Paul Tipton, one of our very talented

employees, exhibited some of his

black and white work

Neal discussing the darkroom

Marco Island Historical Museum exhibit & lecture

2011-05-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Marco Island has a long and ancient history

and is well known for their Calusa Indian

mounds. The completion of their new Historical

Museum is a tribute to the people of Marco Island

and their dedication to the importance of history

for their community. We were very proud to

have an exhibit and lecture at the new Historical

Museum. We had a wonderful time meeting

so many new people.

Allan Sandin - President Marco Island

Historical Museum, J. Robers - musician,

Clyde and Greg Glover

Allan giving introduction

J. Roberts giving us a wonderful

musical introduction

lecture

Book signing

Clyde signing books

Clyde & Niki ~ a talk in the swamp

2011-05-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

Very often folks come up to us and say

that there are always to many people

around us at events, so they never get

to talk with us. So, we decided to try

something we've never done before...

an informal "howdy" with everyone.

We made ourselves available to answer

any questions that were on folks minds.

We had two groups, morning and

afternoon. They had a fountain of questions.

We covered photography, the environment

& philosophy. We had a great time and

it was great fun.

Donna signing everyone in

Our shaded get together in the swamp

behind the gallery

After the talk was over Clyde

joined everyone in the gallery

for a book signing

Center for Visual Communication - Images from Across America

2011-05-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

The opening of Images from Across America at

the Center for Visual Communication in Miami

was a wonderful success. We had a wonderful

evening meeting the folks of Miami...always a

interesting people that make for

stimulating conversations. FUN!

Clyde with Barry Fellman, Director of the

Center for Visual Communication

We came early to the exhibit in order

to give a workshop to some students

from Florida International University.

FIU workshop

Barry introducing Clyde's lecture

We had a great afternoon and evening.

It's always a joy to spend time in Miami.

Preble-Rish Gallery - Apalachicola River ~ An American Treasure

2011-05-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

In 2006 Clyde joined with

award-winning filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus

to create a film and traveling exhibit about

the Apalachicola River. The film and exhibit

has traveled for five years and has now

found a home at the Preble-Rish Gallery in

Blountstown Florida.

Preble-Rish Inc., an engineering and

consulting firm, donated space to house

the exhibit for the Calhoun County Chamber

of Commerce, which is the proprietor

of the exhibit.

Elam Stoltzfus - film producer of

Apalachicola River ~ An American Treasure

Kristy Terry - Executive Director of

Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce

and Clyde

Perfect weather for an

outdoor evening buffet

Watching the film

Clyde telling stories of photographing

along the river

Elam Stoltzfus telling his stories

of filming the river

Clyde telling more stories of photographing

along the river

Watching the film:

Apalachicola River ~ An American Treasure

We enjoyed seeing so many people that we had

met while working on the film with Elam Stoltzfus.

Blountstown is a wonderful community and

the evening was a great success.

Flame Award for Cultural Leadership from the city of Marco Island

2011-05-28T06:06:00.000-07:00

Clyde was given the 2010 Flame Award for

Cultural Leadership by the city of Marco Island

An evening of food and dance...and awards...

Not sure whether he was more

excited about the award or about

meeting Miss Southwest Florida!

Clyde was very honored that he received

the award from Mr. Howard Blankman...

yes, the original!

Greg Glover and Clyde

Marco Island picks a young person in

the community for the award too. This

year they chose an up and coming young

photographer: Tyler MacDonald

Clyde with his

Flame Award for Cultural Leadership

2012 Calendar

2011-05-28T06:01:00.000-07:00

Scott Serbin and Clyde

checking out the density as compared

to the original print

Fun in the darkroom

2011-05-28T05:56:00.000-07:00

Clyde looking at Ochopee negative

Clyde and Neal going over test prints

Niki

Winter Swamp Walk 2011

2011-05-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

The weather for our Winter Swamp Walk was

PERFECT! It was a great weekend to be

outdoors...and a pleasure to share our

outdoors with everyone!

Clyde signing books

Jonnie introducing the South Florida

environment to her group

Heading into the swamp

Jonnie discussing the ecosystem

with her group

Jonnie explaining the ecosystem

ahhhh....the joy of mud...

Jonnie heading into the depths of the

swamp with her group

Looking up

looking down...reflections

Jonnie leading a group through the swamp

Dinghy Orchid

Jackie using the iPad to help a customer

with a broader choice of images

Clyde enjoying conversations

Niki giving a demonstration on how

to hand paint a photograph with

oil paint

Checking out Niki's hand painted b&w

photography in the gallery

Jeff Ripple's photography hanging

in the gallery

Brian Call and Rick Cruz photography

hanging in the gallery

Robbie took care of the campfire

to keep things cozy

enjoying a pic-nic lunch after the

swamp walk

Jeff using the fish tank to help explain

the ecosystem

Jeff using the satellite map to help

explain the ecosystem of South Florida

A swamp walk group gathering by the

back pond...and noticing an anhinga in

the trees

baby alligator in the back pond

Jeff explaining the ecosystem

Jeff leading a group

Jeff leading a group into the depths

The discovery of that rare and

special "sole of the swamp"...

rarely seen attached to trees...

Jeff pointing out a Barred Owl

Barred Owl

Some areas of the swamp begin to dry

up in the winter, which means you can

find all kinds of foot prints in the mud.

It's fun to try and identify them.

Norm explaining the ecosystem

Norm leading a group through the swamp

Brian leading a group through the 'bush'

Kayla making her way through the bush...

a feather floating in the water

making their way through the swamp

Ma 'gators young'n laying in the sun.

Wild Iris...always beautiful this

time of year...

Muddy feet

Clean feet and shoes

Every year we get a pile of tennis shoes

that we clean and donate.

Clyde visiting with folks in the gallery

Robbie reading as the campfire

dwindles and the day comes to

an end.

Clyde sharing his pinhole camera with

Neal, Robbie and Paul

After Jeff's last swamp walk he set

up his easel and began painting.

As the day came to an end and most folks

had left the property our male gator decided

it was time to have a romantic get

together with the female in the back pond.

He began his walk down our road...much

to the dismay of the people caught in the

back of the property. The 'gator was hesitant

to move forward toward the people

and the people were hesitant to move forward

toward the 'gator. It was a stalemate!

Finally, Don & Neal arrived with very long

"gator sticks" and gently encouraged

him to take another route. They managed

to get him off the road for a short spell, but

since it is easier to walk on the road than

through the 'bush', he made his way back to

the road and continued on his way.

In the meantime, the swamp walkers managed

to leave the property...

Stopping to rest...there were many

stops to rest as he made his way

to the back pond.

Short-cutting through the area

where our winter employees

park their campers.

Neal with his "gator stick"...

making sure the people stay

away from him and he stays

away from people...

Making his way down the road

The trip from the front pond

to the back pond took a very

long time. He carries a lot

of weight, which means he

has to stop and rest a lot.

Walking past our satellite image

of south Florida...the ancient and

the new...

He FINALLY made it to the

back pond

The female 'gator feels his presence

and lifts her head in expectation

...and then they join together in the

safety of the back pond for a romantic

evening together....

==============================

We would like to thank our wonderful

Swamp Walk Guides for their

help in sharing the beauty of the

Florida environment with everyone

who came to the swamp walk.

THANK YOU!

Jonnie

Jeff

Brian

Norm

Kayla & Cody

Paul

Rosie

A big THANKS goes to everyone

who made the swamp walk so

much fun!

WGCU TV "Curious Kids" program

2011-05-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

"Curious Kids" and crew with Clyde

Clyde explaining his camera

Heading down the road to the back

of the property for a walk in the swamp

Explaining the ecosystem and answering questions

I think the highlight of their experience

was the mud! Actually, they were great

kids filled with amazing questions. We had

a great time with them!

The joy of mud and children!

Can't wait to see the program. It

will air in the fall of 2011

Annenberg Space for Photography - Lecture

2011-02-16T11:41:00.000-08:00

In January Clyde returned to the

Annenberg Space for Photography

to give a lecture.

There was a full house and he met many

interesting California folks who enjoy

photography.

The experience with Annenberg Space

for Photography was wonderful. We're

very proud to have been a part of such

a wonderful venue for photography.

Keep up the good work!

Clyde showing museum visitors how

the touch screen coffee table works.

FUN TOY!

Rookery Bay Annual Juried Photography Exhibit

2011-02-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

Clyde in front of the Rookery Bay

Environmental Learning Center.

Rookery Bay is an outstanding environmental

center dealing with the aquatic preserves of

Florida. They are located in Naples and have

many wonderful opportunities for the folks

in the community to get to know the

environment in which they live.

We are proud to join with them, and the

United Art Council of Collier County,

every year to present a juried exhibit of

photographs that represent the beauty

of the flora and fauna of our state.

The best piece of sculpture of alligators

we have ever seen is in front of the

Rookery Bay center.

Years ago Clyde had made a poster for

Rookery Bay...they still have a few around.

Here, Clyde is signing one for one of

the employees of Rookery Bay

Wonderful crowd came to see the exhibit.

It was great to see such a powerful interest

in the photography of Florida's environment!

Bruce Robertson, President of Friends

of Rookery Bay and Elaine Hamilton,

Executive Director of United Arts

Council of Collier County

Clyde giving out awards

A special award of $250 was given

to Kayla for her photographic entries

Clyde with Kayla

L-R

Marc Damon (with beautiful daughter) 3rd place - $500

Laurie Meehan 1st place - $1500

Chad Anderson 2nd place - $1000

Clyde with all the award winners

It was a wonderful exhibit of dynamic photography.

Can't wait to see what wonderful images Clyde

will be given to chose from for next years event!

Extreme Photography - Annenberg Space for Photography

2011-02-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

Banners were flying along the

Avenue of the Stars advertising

the exhibit

Extreme Exposure

October 23- April 17

Century City - Los Angeles - California

Clyde was invited by the Annenberg Space for

Photography and the International League

of Conservation Photographers to be a part

of an exhibit that celebrates five photographers

who thrive in environments that few dare

to explore in order to capture rarely seen

moments of life on our planet.

The Annenberg Space for Photography

collaborated with guest curatorial advisor

Cristina Mittermeier, an award-winning

photographer, conservationist and

President of the International League

of Conservation Photographers, to display

a unique collection of landscapes and

intimate moments between artists and

the environments they explore.

The photographers:

Clyde Butcher

Michael Nichols

Paul Nicklen

Stephen & Donna O'Meara

The plaza in Century City where

Annenberg Space for Photography

is located

Clyde standing in front of the

Annenberg Space for Photography

Clyde and me at entry to

the exhibit

Entry to the exhibit

Donna O'Meara - photographer of volcanoes,

Wallis Annenberg and Clyde

Clyde being photographed with Donna O'Meara

photographer of volcanoes, and Cristina

Mittermeier - President of the International

League of Conservation Photographers

Mark Christmas from the International

League of Conservation Photographers,

Donna O'Meara - photographer of

volcanoes, and Clyde

Cristina Mittermeier - President of the

International League of Conservation

Photographers (she curated the exhibit),

Pat Lanza - Director of Annenberg Space

for Photography, Clyde, Donna O'Meara -

photographer of volcanoes.

Clyde's work in the background with

Stephen & Donna O'Meara's images

of volcanoes in the foreground

Clyde talking with the docents

Discussions about photography

Mark Christmas playing with the

touch-screen coffee table

Clyde being interviewed

Clyde discovers the touch-screen coffee table

It allowed the viewer to choose which

photographers images he'd like to see and

then pick the ones liked best and enlarge

them and move them about the surface,

turn them, make them smaller, stack them...

so much fun!

We had great fun playing with the

touch-screen coffee table. It was

hard for them to get us away from

it! I want one of those...fun!

Clyde playing with the touch-screen

coffee table and sharing the toy

with folks visiting Annenberg

Clyde talking about his work to a private

gathering at the Annenberg

_______________________________

The next evening was the exhibit. It was

a beautiful evening , so we walked

from our hotel to the exhibit.

People were already there when

we arrived...very crowded! It was

great to see the enthusiasm for

photography that the Annenberg Space

for Photography has created.

Clyde with Leonard Aube, Executive

Director of the Annenberg Foundation

Entry into exhibit

Lots of famous people came that we

recognized and many that we didn't

Clyde giving a short introductory note

They even had computer screens in

the bathrooms displaying the images

of the photographers!

The view from our hotel.

It was an exciting and amazing exhibit. We

were proud to be a part of a photography

exhibit that utilized the latest in photographic

technical expertise. It was very inspiring. We

thank the Annenberg Space for Photography

for giving photographers such a wonderful

venue in which to display their work.

_____________________________

In January, Clyde was invited to return

to give a lecture about his work. He arrived

to a full house and enjoyed seeing the folks

at Annenberg again, as well as meeting

many wonderful Californians.

The experience with Annenberg Space

for Photography was inspirational. We're

looking forward to joining with them again

in the future for more great exhibits!

Yosemite National Park

2011-01-31T16:25:00.000-08:00

Our shadows look out over Yosemite

In October of 2010 we added Yosemite

National Park to our trip west. It turned out

to be a wonderful experience and we also

got some great photos!

I have only posted two of the b&w photos

from the many I took because I haven't

had time to finish the rest. These two are

my favorites so far...

I gathered up my 6x10 view camera and

headed up to Glacier Point. My main

purpose with this trip to Yosemite was to

capture an image of Half Dome from

Glacier Point that was really good. We

spent five days and I photographed

Half Dome every afternoon...many

beautiful days with many nice

photos, but it wasn't until the very last

day that I captured a unique photo.

Niki photographing with my camera

standing by

Niki's stitch of Half Dome

For a change of scenery we did some hiking

in the high country near Glacier Point. It

was very chilly!

A huff 'n a puff, but we made it to the top

When we reached the top we found

this neat twisted tree. Very

photogenic.

Niki all bundled up and still photographing...

The fall colors were wonderful.

We spent the morning at Inspiration Point

waiting for the fog to lift. When it finally

the view was...well,...it was inspirational!

Inspiration Point - fog

I took several photos as the fog moved

through the valley, but this is the one

I liked the best.

We headed off to the Mariposa Grove for

a very early morning shot.

The redwood trees are truly amazing.

We arrived at Mariposa Grove before the

sun cracked over the mountain. I wanted

even lighting on the trees, but that also

meant it was dark, so my exposures were

very long. Niki took this photo of me

with my trusty old stop watch counting

the minutes.

Niki photographing the trees

We headed down to Yosemite Valley after

photographing the Mariposa Grove to

discover this wonderful light filling

the valley floor.

Niki's photo

The valley floor had this wonderful

plant seeding its self every where in

the valley. The texture was

both dynamic and soft at the same

time...NEAT! Niki must have

taken 30 shots of the seed

pods! She was in awe of the

beauty of the force of life...

This tree was surrounded by photographers!

The colors were incredible!

Back up to Half Dome for the afternoon shoot

Niki's photo for the day at Glacier Point.

The next morning we headed for the high

country on the other side of the valley. We

headed toward Tuolumne Meadows. Everything

was in their fall colors of glory...winter is on the

way. We never made it to Tuolumne

Meadows...had too much fun photographing

along the way!

We found a beautiful little lake and spent some

time hiking around the edge looking for

photographic opportunities. Beautiful spot.

The name of the place is Siesta Lake.

As we traveled further we came across these

old pines. I'm guessing they are bristle cone

pines. Wonderful textures, but they were

in awkward places and not easily reached, so

Niki photographed them with her telephoto.

Sure wish there had been some way to

reach them other than being a rock/cliff

climber! They were great!

As I was driving, Niki caught a flash through the

side of her eye, so we made a U-turn and found

a sweet little spot. We think it was Tenaya

Creek, but we're not sure. The boulders

surrounding the creek made for some fun

photography.

We got as far as the overlook to Tuolumne

Meadows but it was late and I wanted to

get back to Half Dome for the afternoon light,

so we turned around here and headed back.

I tried to take a photo, but the wind

made it impossible.

This is Niki's photo of what I was trying to

photograph with a large format camera, but

the wind was shaking the bellows and lifting

the dark cloth causing movement...

just didn't work.

We returned to Half Dome for the afternoon

light, but all we got was fog. I set up my

camera anyway and waited. Sometimes

wonderful things happen if you just wait...

sometimes they don't. The only way to

know is to wait and see. So, we waited

and waited and waited. The majority of the

photographers who were hanging around

hoping for the fog to clear left, but I still

waited...

Half Dome would peak out through the fog

tantalizing everyone who wanted to take a

photo, but then it would disappear again. The

sun was setting and I was afraid it would get

too dark for me to photograph if the fog

didn't lift soon...we waited and then the

fog lifted and I finally got a photo!

Glacier Point 2

As the sun began to set, the clouds turned

pink and Half Dome took on a

warm hue.

The full moon was rising as we left Half Dome.

Another satisfying and beautiful trip to

Yosemite National Park...truly a small piece

of heaven fell to earth when Yosemite

was created.