Colors of My Heart

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a nature reserve in Antelope Valley, Los Angeles County, California, known for its beautiful California poppies. It is located about 2hour drive from Los Angeles.  The reserve covers an area of ​​about 1,780 acres and attracts many tourists every spring (March to May) as the beautiful California poppy flowers bloom all over the place.  The California poppy is the state flower, and the view of the bright orange flowers spreading out is a spectacular sight. When the poppies are in full bloom, the entire reserve is covered like an orange carpet, impressing visitors.  Walking paths and hiking trails have also been developed to enjoy the flower fields. There are several trails within the reserve, where you can walk while feeling the flowers up close.  The visitor's center features educational exhibits about California poppies and the area's natural beauty and offers guided tours.     Nikon New FM2 / Nikkor AF-S Zoom 28...

Located in the Sepulveda Basin of the San Fernando Valley, just outside Los Angeles, Lake Balboa—officially known as Anthony C. Beilenson Park—is a vast urban park spanning approximately 80 acres (32 hectares). At its heart lies a 27-acre (11-hectare) lake where visitors can enjoy swan boats, pedal boats, and fishing.  The park also features a 1.3-mile walking path, jogging and cycling trails, barbecue pits, picnic areas, and a universally accessible playground. In spring, the Japanese Garden, adorned with cherry blossoms, waterfalls, and streams, becomes a particularly popular attraction and is often described by local blogs as a “hidden gem.”  Under the brilliant blue California sky, the cherry blossoms create a striking contrast, offering a unique visual experience unlike those in Japan. For photography, I used a CPL filter, which deepened the blue of the sky and enhanced the overall vibrancy of the scene. Taken with Nikon F5 / AF-S Zoom 28-70mm F2.8D ED-IF / Kodak Professi...

Antelope Canyon​ Antelope Canyon is a place that captivates visitors with its unique slot canyon structure and beautiful effects of light. Rays of light filtering through the narrow canyon walls often create patterns reminiscent of enchanting works of art, making it one of the finest photographic spots for both photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. This location is deeply intertwined with the culture and history of the Navajo people, serving as a sacred site with special significance to them. The canyon has been shaped over many years by the forces of nature, and its beauty has left a lasting impression on many who come to visit. When planning a visit, it is crucial to understand the risks of flash flooding and to explore the canyon with a safe tour guide. Particularly during the summer months, when tourist traffic is high, visiting in winter can offer a chance to enjoy the tranquility; however, it is essential to be well-prepared for the cold. Moreover, while in the area, it is a...

Zion National Park Zion National Park, located in the state of Utah, USA, is a stunning park known for its magnificent red rock mountains and breathtaking canyons. Some of its major attractions include Zion Canyon, Angels Landing, and The Narrows, making it a popular destination for hiking and trekking.​​​ The park is home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife, with spring and autumn being the best seasons to visit. In particular, autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, making it an ideal time to appreciate the beauty of nature.​​​​​​​​​ As a place where visitors can enjoy both nature and adventure, Zion National Park attracts tourists from all over the world.​​ When I visited this place, I was primarily shooting with film, but I borrowed my wife's digital SLR to take several photos. It was a Nikon D40X, an entry-level camera that we had purchased right after its release in 2007. At the time, its 10-megapixel resolution was quite impressive, and I would often borrow it when nee...

Point Vicente Lighthouse  in Rancho Palos Verdes LA Point Vicente Lighthouse, located in Rancho Palos Verdes, Los Angeles County, California, has been guiding ships since it was first lit in 1926.  Designed primarily for maritime safety, the lighthouse stands as a white cylindrical tower, reaching a height of approximately 15 meters (49 feet). Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, it has become a popular destination for tourists.  The area also offers trails and parks, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities like hiking. When I took this photo, I was using film. At the time, I primarily used three cameras: the F5, F3, and New FM-2. This particular shot was captured with F5, paired with a 28-70mm lens, which worked perfectly for the scene. Nikon F5 / Nikkor AF-S Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF / Kodak Professional Ultra Collar 100UC Nikon F5 / Nikkor AF-S Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF / Kodak Professional Ultra Collar 100UC Participating in the ranking If you think the c...