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	<title type="text">Blog</title>
	<subtitle type="text">Blog:</subtitle>
	<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/" />
	<link rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" href="http://expressionengine.com/{atom_feed_location/}" />
	<updated>2012-02-14T14:35:57Z</updated>
	<rights>Copyright (c) 2012, Kyle Neuberger</rights>
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	<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:02:14</id>


	<entry>
		<title>A Valentine&#8217;s Day Photo</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/a-valentines-day-photo/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1753</id>
		<published>2012-02-14T14:30:56Z</published>
		<updated>2012-02-14T14:35:57Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	So it seemed natural to write about this artwork called WEDDED on Valentine&#39;s Day.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	It was the morning after a beautiful wedding which took place out in the <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/colorado-photos/">Colorado wilderness</a>.&nbsp; Nothing remained except for the rose petals that were sprinkled across the path.</p>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>


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		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>&#8220;DAYDREAM&#8221;</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/daydream/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1721</id>
		<published>2012-02-02T22:28:26Z</published>
		<updated>2012-02-02T22:53:28Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	This artwork reveals what happens when I shoot photography out in the field to create a surreal artwork:</p>
<h3>
	&quot;It&#39;s not what the scene<em> is</em>.&nbsp; It&#39;s what the scene could be, should be or what I wish it was.&quot;&nbsp;</h3>
<h3>
	<strong>CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGES</strong></h3>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	And this is what existed before the DAYDREAM.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Grand Cayman Islands &#45; Chapter 7</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/grand-cayman-islands/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1570</id>
		<published>2012-01-22T18:54:52Z</published>
		<updated>2012-01-23T03:48:53Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Well, our journey on the Carnival Legend ended at the beautiful Grand Cayman Islands.&nbsp; More crystal blue water, a little rain, and some beautiful beaches.</p>
<h2>
	CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	What better way to start our Grand Cayman excursion than a beautiful sunrise to greet us.&nbsp; This is an HDR shot.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	Soon, we were off the Carnival Legend onward to the journey that awaited us on the island.&nbsp; How about that beautiful water?</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	As we walked around in town, we came upon this beautiful church.&nbsp; Had to grab a quick pic.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	Soon, we were on the beach.&nbsp; Does someone have a Corona?</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	Meaghan didn&#39;t waste any time greeting the fishes. It was a peculiar situation with the rain coming down offshore.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	I thought this made an interesting shot with the clouds offshore and the footprints in the sand...</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	I took 6-7 images and stitched them together to formulate this interesting panoramic.&nbsp; Despite the threat of rain, it was still oddly beautiful.&nbsp; Click to enlarge it.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	Soon the inevitable occured.&nbsp; I guess you could say this is proof that it even rains in paradise.&nbsp; I bet you really feel sorry for me ;-)</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	The crab didn&#39;t seem to care about the rain.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	So I&#39;m a little obsessed with panoramic shots.&nbsp; I had to capture the full scene so I could remember the full view forever.</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	Well, this really could have been a cool shot.&nbsp; If only the stupid pickup was out of there...it would have been even better if that pirate ship was sailing.</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	Soon, we were back on the boat.</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	As we sailed away, I could still see the cool formations of the clouds on shore.</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	I caught this interesting shot while in another boat.</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	The journey came to an end like all good things do. We were blessed with a beautiful sunset.</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside the Carnival Legend - Chapter 6</a></p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Just call it &#8220;FATE&#8221;</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/just-call-it-fate/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1667</id>
		<published>2012-01-18T17:48:39Z</published>
		<updated>2012-01-18T19:17:40Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Photographers work really hard.&nbsp; No, I mean really hard.&nbsp; Pretty pictures you see all over the web and at galleries are the result of careful planning, commitment, and determination.&nbsp; I really have learned this over the years.</p>
<p>
	My first favorite artwork of 2012 thus far was merely by chance, however.&nbsp; Randomly, I took my camera with me before I left to go work out since there seemed to be some soft clouds in the sky and although there were about 90 minutes or so before sunset, I thought what the heck.&nbsp; I can count the number of times I&#39;ve done this on one hand in my life.</p>
<p>
	After getting in a great workout, I decided to ditch my normal route on the freeway so that I could head west to get outside of town in case the sky would cooperate as I had planned.&nbsp; Normally, this path is filled with traffic, but I had to take the risk in order to get to the spot.&nbsp; Conveniently, Meaghan could pick up AJ since it was a Wednesday.</p>
<p>
	Green light after green light, I screamed down the road and witnessed the sun lowering and the sky softening.&nbsp; The clouds were thick, layered, and high. Things were looking up.&nbsp; After studying sunset conditions for years, I thought that this could be good.</p>
<p>
	I had a decision to make.&nbsp; I could visit my &quot;normal&quot; spot and capture a solid sunset photo or venture out into the unknown.&nbsp; I turned left, and suddenly the decision was made for me...I guess the optimism pushed me to roll the dice.</p>
<p>
	So here I was driving and turning, not knowing where to go.&nbsp; It was a race against the falling sun.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	I pulled over, jumped out of my car with my camera and spare cards and battery, I was ready.&nbsp; I was in a field I&#39;ve never been to, and it seemed like all of the others.&nbsp; So I walked, and admittedly, was disappointed with the immediate scene in front of me as the sky started to glow with BRILLIANT colors.&nbsp; I could tell that I was part of a rare event.&nbsp; I kept walking.&nbsp; A shot here.&nbsp; A shot there.&nbsp; Mud filled my shoes...I didn&#39;t care one bit.&nbsp; I just couldn&#39;t find anything to really shoot other than the sky.</p>
<p>
	I walked further.&nbsp; As I poked my head around the tall grass, a reflection glowed on the ground, illuminating a small pond.&nbsp; At that moment, I smiled and knew it was meant to be.&nbsp; A tree stood alone behind it, and it was just one of those unexplainable and somewhat spiritual moments you could say.&nbsp; The light was so soft and splendid.&nbsp; I don&#39;t know how I got there or why, but am so glad that FATE was with me that evening.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>New Abstract Art for a New Year</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/new-abstract-art-for-a-new-year/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1663</id>
		<published>2012-01-12T23:01:53Z</published>
		<updated>2012-01-12T23:14:55Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Every once in a while, a creative &quot;spark&quot; ignites.&nbsp; One just so happened to take place at the start of the new year.&nbsp; As I try to push myself into creating new forms and &quot;realms&quot; of art, sometimes something unexpected happens--for better or for worse.&nbsp; Here&#39;s a glance as what is to come in the near future at Franklin Arts...</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Christmas at the Capitol</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/christmas-at-the-capitol/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2012:blog/4.1603</id>
		<published>2012-01-01T19:16:10Z</published>
		<updated>2012-01-02T01:19:12Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	During the past 10 years or so, I&#39;ve visited Pierre, South Dakota for Christmas.&nbsp; It&#39;s quite unique in many ways and if you&#39;ve never been there over Christmas, you might just want to check it out.&nbsp; I guess it&#39;s just been one of those things I take for granted.&nbsp; Pierre truly is a beautiful place, especially over the holidays.&nbsp; This year there was no snow, a rare event, so I took the opportunity to take a bunch of photos of the Capitol, both inside and out.&nbsp; Enjoy.</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE.</h2>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	The Capitol is decked out with dozens of Christmas trees every year.&nbsp; It&#39;s quite a sight.</p>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	AJ loved it!</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	The beautiful features of the capital ceiling mended nicely with the holiday decor.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a wide angle shot from the balcony.</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	Each tree is decorated in fine detail.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s another shot from above.&nbsp; You&#39;ll notice that colorful reflective snowflakes are hung from the ceiling to really add to the trees.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	I really like this angle..had to grab a shot!</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	Self portrait.</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	One of thousands of ornaments inside the Capitol.</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	AJ enjoyed seeing all the ornaments.</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	This was a mesmerizing view...I just love how the snowflake turned perfectly to center the composition of this photo.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	I couldn&#39;t resist transforming this shot to a black and white.</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	The next day it was time to capture the action happening outside the capitol.</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	Yep, there were some geese.</p>
<p>
	{image_17}</p>
<p>
	A LOT of geese.&nbsp; (And ducks.)</p>
<p>
	{image_18}</p>
<p>
	And they were hungry.</p>
<p>
	{image_19}</p>
<p>
	So were the fish!</p>
<p>
	{image_20}</p>
<p>
	This is a composited HDR photo. I like how it turned out.</p>
<p>
	{image_21}</p>
<p>
	One of these birds is different than the rest.&nbsp; Can you see it?&nbsp; I call him Waldo.</p>
<p>
	{image_22}</p>
<p>
	Soon, the birds were swarming from every direction.&nbsp; It&#39;s quite a scene.</p>
<p>
	{image_23}</p>
<p>
	I went to the other side of Capitol Lake to get a different angle.</p>
<p>
	{image_24}</p>
<p>
	A black and white that really captured the essence of the Capitol, in my opinion.</p>
<p>
	{image_25}</p>
<p>
	I know nothing about birds and how they communicate, but something made them all suddenly turn and travel in the same direction.&nbsp; It was rather strange.</p>
<p>
	{image_16}</p>
<p>
	This composition is one I had in my head from the beginning.&nbsp; I&#39;m just glad the geese cooperated.</p>
<p>
	{image_26}</p>
<p>
	I liked how these ducks were having a little gathering out of the water.&nbsp; I had to sneak around quietly so they would stay put.</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	I *think they say every bird has a mate for life.&nbsp; Perhaps these are mates?</p>
<p>
	{image_27}</p>
<p>
	My patience was rewarded with this shot.</p>
<p>
	{image_28}</p>
<p>
	Birds are quite incredible creatures.</p>
<p>
	{image_29}</p>
<p>
	And then....geese came from behind me to join the hundreds (maybe thousands) already on Capitol Lake.</p>
<p>
	{image_30}</p>
<p>
	Again, I couldn&#39;t resist black and white.</p>
<p>
	{image_31}</p>
<p>
	The Capitol was under attack ;-)</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Holiday Greeting Card Idea</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/holiday-greeting-card-idea/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1576</id>
		<published>2011-12-18T18:45:28Z</published>
		<updated>2011-12-18T20:22:30Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Every year, my wife and I like to send out a postcard for the holidays.&nbsp; No, it&#39;s not a novel idea by any stretch of the imagination.&nbsp; Being the crazy creative people we are, we&#39;re always trying to come up with some unique ideas and I think we succeeded this time around.&nbsp; We saw some pretty cool pictures of kids with lights on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>, and we knew our son really liked them and would be an easy distraction to take some cool portraits of him.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	Off we went, and taking the pictures were quite easy, then it just came down to editing the final image which I thoroughly enjoy of course.</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a step by step of how I did it...and yes, unfortunately, you need to have some Photoshop skills.</p>
<h3>
	CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGES</h3>
<p>
	<strong><em>Step 1</em>.</strong> We had the original image...but I was struck by how &quot;red&quot; AJ&#39;s face turned out so I had to think of a way to tone it down a bit.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	<em><strong>Step 2.</strong></em> Turning the photo to black and white was a natural step, however, then you lose the entire purpose of the props...the colored lights!</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	<em><strong>Step 3.</strong></em> A quick remedy is to turn the color of the lights back on!&nbsp; (Thank you, Photoshop!)&nbsp; I also turned up the black a bit to add a tad more contrast since it seemed a little washed out.&nbsp; Okay, now we&#39;re getting somewhere!</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	<em><strong>Step 4.</strong></em> I&#39;ve learned one thing doing art over the years...often times, the most SUBTLE things are the most IMPORTANT things.&nbsp; I had to make sure the light in AJ&#39;s eyes reflected colored light too!&nbsp; It just adds so much to it!</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	<em><strong>Step 5.</strong></em> Add your greeting, and you&#39;re done!&nbsp; In this instance, we made this a postcard so we could write a personal message on the back.&nbsp; Here&#39;s the final image!</p>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	Not only do you get a great greeting card, but you can turn it into your favorite personalized holiday wall art! (photo courtesy of housebeautiful.com)</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	...AND, you get to keep all of the precious outtakes too!</p>
<p>
	{image_7}{image_8}{image_9}{image_10}{image_11}{image_12}{image_13}</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wallartdecorstore.com%2Fblog%2Fentry%2Fholiday-greeting-card-idea%2F&media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wallartdecorstore.com%2Fmedia%2Fsized%2Fmedia%2Fblog%2FFranklin-Arts-Greeting-Card_1-480x323.jpg&description=Holiday%20Greeting%20Card%20Idea%20-%20Tips%2C%20Instructions%2C%20and%20why%20you%20should%20do%20it!" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal">Pin It</a>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>

			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Carnival Legend: Look Inside &#45; Chapter 6</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1417</id>
		<published>2011-11-27T03:06:19Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-27T19:55:20Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	For all of you photographers out there, I must say that a cruise ship offers some of the most intriguing scenes you can find...and they&#39;re all consolidated right in one place.&nbsp; Throughout the days of the cruise, I found myself taking tons of photos to capture the incredible details of the decor and lighting.&nbsp; Needless to say, it is a haven for <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/what-is-hdr">HDR photos</a> (all of these are HDR)...so I took advantage.&nbsp; Hope you enjoy ;-)</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	Welcome to the dining room, a place you will spend a lot of time in if you go on a cruise.&nbsp; It is amazing how many people they can serve at one time.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	This is the view from our table.&nbsp; It was a rare moment to catch the empty tables before anyone got there, so I took advantage of capturing the scene.</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	It truly is amazing how big these ships are.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	In the very early mornings, I walked around and took some shots.&nbsp; As you can imagine, it is nearly impossible to capture scenes without people.&nbsp; I was successful with persistence throughout the trip.</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	Another shot of a lounge area.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	This was an eerie scene when I took it.&nbsp; I approached the piano which played music by itself, without anyone there to listen.</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	More elevators.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	We found ourselves using the stairs more, however, to feel a tad bit less guilty about all of the food we were consuming ;-)</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a shot of the main lobby from above.&nbsp; There&#39;s one person in this shot...can you see &quot;Waldo&quot;?</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	And here&#39;s the view of the main walkway to the dining room.</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	Of course, the ship provides some shopping opportunities.&nbsp; There are stores to the left and right.&nbsp; I love the way the ceilings are mirrored to really enlarge the space and of course provide for a great HDR opportunity!</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	This shots looks down the shopping hall from the opposite angle.</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	Here we are at the main entertainment stage.&nbsp; Since it&#39;s early in the morning, nobody is here ;-)</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s an extended angle.</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	Later that night, we went to a show.&nbsp; Overall, I must say the Carnival entertainment is pretty rock solid.</p>
<p>
	{image_16}</p>
<p>
	This unique stairwell takes you from the top level of the stage seating to the main floor.</p>
<p>
	{image_17}</p>
<p>
	I guess you could say this is Carnival&#39;s version of &quot;Rodeo Drive.&quot;</p>
<p>
	{image_19}</p>
<p>
	Even though we never hung out at this nightclub, I had to get a shot of it.&nbsp; I placed my camera on the table which also provided a pretty cool reflection.</p>
<p>
	{image_20}</p>
<p>
	This is in the same bar on the opposite side.&nbsp; The cherry red piano rests among the unusual, but very cool, art surrounding it.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_21}</p>
<p>
	One more angle from the nightclub.&nbsp; Seems like a pretty cool joint.</p>
<p>
	{image_22}</p>
<p>
	I was captivated by this shot when early morning light pushed through the windows of the ship to cast some cool patterns on the floor and lit up the space.&nbsp; I especially like the composition of this image because the pattern on the ceiling runs parallel to the patterned light on the floor.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_23}</p>
<p>
	You can certainly tell the ship&#39;s designers pay attention to the details. The mirrors to the left give the illusion that the space is infinite.</p>
<p>
	{image_24}</p>
<p>
	I&#39;m impressed by how clean and tidy the ship is at any given time.&nbsp; Tables are immaculate and floors are spotless.</p>
<p>
	{image_25}</p>
<p>
	Carnival cruises offer art auctions which are pretty entertaining to attend.&nbsp; It&#39;s a great, convenient way to see a ton of art while enjoying some complimentary champaign.&nbsp; I didn&#39;t see any Franklin Arts pieces there though :-(</p>
<p>
	{image_26}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a shot of the opposite side where the auction action is.&nbsp; Needless to say, kind of an interesting room too captured via HDR.</p>
<p>
	{image_27}</p>
<p>
	What would a cruise ship be without a casino ;-)</p>
<p>
	{image_28}</p>
<p>
	I really like how this HDR shot turned out.&nbsp; Again, it looks like a ghost town but only because it was early, early, in the morning.</p>
<p>
	{image_29}</p>
<p>
	The main buffet presents cruisers with a really cool chandelier and intricate patterns and mirrors to make for a great photo opp.</p>
<p>
	{image_30}</p>
<p>
	Another angle looking up.&nbsp; Notice the bars supporting the chandelier.&nbsp; We are on a boat, afterall.</p>
<p>
	{image_31}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s another random shot.</p>
<p>
	{image_32}</p>
<p>
	Here are my fellow cruisers.&nbsp; The story behind this photo is that we were waiting in a piano bar for a magician who performed close-up sleight of hand tricks.&nbsp; It was probably my personal favorite as far as the cruiseship entertainment goes.</p>
<p>
	{image_33}</p>
<p>
	Self portrait.</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Roatan Island Honduras &#45; Chapter 5</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1435</id>
		<published>2011-11-18T22:38:36Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-25T17:33:38Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	I discovered Roatan Island many years ago when my friend, Jesse, and I went to visit my brother who was stationed in Honduras.&nbsp; Roatan was a secret paradise.&nbsp; Nobody knew about the place.&nbsp; It was desolate.&nbsp; Years later, we returned to discover that it was a much more popular place.</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	The sun rose to reveal the island we were about to explore.&nbsp; This is a HDR panaromic photo comprised of 6 shots.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	This HDR shot of the sunrise minutes later allowed me to capture the foreground of the island despite the glaring sun just coming up behind the trees.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	The captain parks the ship.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	There&#39;s a unique ship wreck just off the coast.</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	The Mohagany Bay sign greets us as we stepped off the ramp.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	We took a cab to explore the island.&nbsp; The scenes of the ocean were fantastic as we climbed to higher elevations on the island.</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	We continued our journey when we noticed these beautiful homes with breathtaking views.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	We arrived at a private resort at West Bay.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	We were excited to walk down the path toward paradise.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	We were almost there.....ahhh...look at that water awaiting us.</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	We made it to the beach.&nbsp; What a beautiful place. My friend Jesse and I debated about whether this was really the place we were years ago.&nbsp; Quite honestly, there were so many more resorts and buildings along the beach, that I couldn&#39;t even recognize it.&nbsp; Jesse was certain it was the same beach, but I thought otherwise.&nbsp; The hut we stayed in years ago was replaced with expensive private condos, hotels, and resorts.&nbsp; I could not recognize it.&nbsp; I was not convinced that this place, West Bay, was where we were years ago.</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	My wife didn&#39;t seem to care who was right.&nbsp; She didn&#39;t waste time jumping in.</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	Soon we made our way to the edge of the shore.&nbsp; Jesse was right.&nbsp; This WAS the place we were many years ago.&nbsp; The coral reef and the fish is what I recognized.&nbsp; Here&#39;s a panoramic shot (6 photos stitched together) of my wife and Jesse doing some freestyle snorkeling, courtesy of our Speedo swimming goggles ;-)</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	Fish are to Roatan as <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_XlS6Gk3Ws">pigeons are to Venice</a>.&nbsp; They are not shy.&nbsp; They are everywhere.&nbsp; They are hungry.&nbsp; And they want to be fed.</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	If you ever visit Roatan, just remember West Bay to experience this.&nbsp; West Bay.&nbsp; West Bay.&nbsp; West Bay.&nbsp; I certainly won&#39;t forget again!</p>
<p>
	{image_16}</p>
<p>
	There&#39;s not many places, I imagine, that have scenes like this.</p>
<p>
	{image_17}</p>
<p>
	A true vacation haven. This HDR captures the details of the scene.</p>
<p>
	{image_18}</p>
<p>
	A big fish swimming solo.</p>
<p>
	{image_19}</p>
<p>
	This caught my eye on the beach.&nbsp; Click on this one to see the detail in the wood and the moss.&nbsp; HDR was necessary for this one.</p>
<p>
	{image_20}</p>
<p>
	Okay, so I was a little obsessed with this spot, but I just couldn&#39;t quit shooting it!&nbsp; This is my last captured memory of that beautiful place.&nbsp; This is an HDR photo.</p>
<p>
	{image_21}</p>
<p>
	We left West Bay :-(&nbsp; On the way we found some shopping.&nbsp; This composition caught my eye.</p>
<p>
	{image_22}</p>
<p>
	Mohagany Bay is full of lush vegetation.</p>
<p>
	{image_23}</p>
<p>
	A fountain in the marketplace.</p>
<p>
	{image_24}</p>
<p>
	There&#39;s that big boat that got us here.</p>
<p>
	{image_25}</p>
<p>
	This photo is an optical illusion of sorts.&nbsp; Although it appears that the path juts out from the ship in two directions, this path actually runs parallel to the ship.&nbsp; The formed image comes as the result of several shots stitched together from the unique vantage point from the balcony.</p>
<p>
	{image_26}</p>
<p>
	I was captivated by the way the clouds surrounded the sun.</p>
<p>
	{image_27}</p>
<p>
	The sunset revealed rich subtle colors. It was a perfect ending to the day.</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside a Carnival Cruise Ship - Chapter 6</a></p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>You Better Belize It &#45; Chapter 4</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1416</id>
		<published>2011-11-13T19:13:05Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-25T17:35:06Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Next stop on the Carnvial Cruise.....Belize!&nbsp; I heard a lot about the fantastic snorkeling, and was really looking forward to this one!</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	Belize greeted us with a warm sunset.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	...or should i say a hot, sticky, humid sunset ;-)&nbsp; This shot was taken from inside the cabin.</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	...and this is what happens to your camera when your camera hits the humidity.&nbsp; It&#39;s very frustrating.&nbsp; This was taken from the tender we had to take to our excursion right off the ship.&nbsp; Apparently the coral reef is so shallow that the ships have to stay away from the island.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	This was the shot I intended to get after I wiped my lense (and before the thick humid air got inside the camera, rendering it useless for about a 15 minutes.)</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	Our tender ride led us through some mysterious plantlife that rose above the ocean.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	That mysterious plantlife provided some hangouts and homes for native birds.</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	After snorkeling, we arrived at an isolated beach paradise where we would relax and explore the space.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	We parked the tender boat to enter into paradise.</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	There were more than enough lounge chairs, but most people, like us, were too busy looking around this tiny island.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	A dock amidst a beautiful place.</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	These tiny needlenose fish (or whatever they&#39;re called) were barely visible, but they certainly weren&#39;t afraid of us.</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	Now this is what I call a picnic table!</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	The shore was simply a bed of shells...it was truly amazing and beautfiul to see.&nbsp; I&#39;ve never seen anything like it!&nbsp; You might want to click to enlarge this one.</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	This was a long-lost ocean picnic table (I think) and dock that was no longer functional.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a shot of a hut where they kept their kayaks.</p>
<p>
	{image_16}</p>
<p>
	A self-portrait of sorts, perhaps?&nbsp; See the fish in the middle?</p>
<p>
	{image_17}</p>
<p>
	The unusual trees framed our tender boat in a fascinating way...had to get a shot of it of course!</p>
<p>
	{image_18}</p>
<p>
	Aha!&nbsp; Our first and only starfish sighting of the entire trip.&nbsp; We looked down while walking on the dock and spotted it.</p>
<p>
	{image_19}</p>
<p>
	On the way back to the ship, I spotted this lonely bird watching us go by.&nbsp; At first I thought it was a statue ;-)&nbsp; Fortunately I caught the shot before it flew away.</p>
<p>
	{image_20}</p>
<p>
	We approached our ship, the Carnival Legend, and you can see another one, the Carnival Triumph.</p>
<p>
	{image_21}</p>
<p>
	This HDR shot truly reveals the massive power and size of the ship.</p>
<p>
	{image_22}</p>
<p>
	I snapped a shot upon our entry back into the ship from the tender boat.</p>
<p>
	{image_23}</p>
<p>
	We went back up to our room to relax a bit.&nbsp; You can see we had a balcony room...if you ever go on a cruise, make sure to get one.&nbsp; It&#39;s totally worth it.</p>
<p>
	{image_24}</p>
<p>
	The sun hid beneath some clouds and I was able to catch this shot looking out from the ship from a different angle.&nbsp; I love the way it spotlights the water.</p>
<p>
	{image_25}</p>
<p>
	After a little bit of rest, we decided to catch another boat to explore Belize City.</p>
<p>
	{image_26}</p>
<p>
	Take a look at that water and compare it to other photos throughout this cruise adventure.&nbsp; The water was pretty disgusting...very brown and not welcoming to say the least.&nbsp; Belize is beautiful in the water (the blue water while snorkeling, not the brown stuff), but I must confess it was a bit disappointing on the mainland.</p>
<p>
	{image_27}</p>
<p>
	I caught this sunset that night as we headed back out to sea.</p>
<p>
	{image_28}</p>
<p>
	This is another closeup of the clouds minutes after.&nbsp; I love the color it cast in the sky.&nbsp; I&#39;m a sucker for <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/art/sunset-pictures/">sunset pictures</a>.</p>
<p>
	{image_29}</p>
<p>
	One last confession. I stole this article&#39;s title from a T-Shirt.&nbsp; &quot;U Better Belize it!&quot;&nbsp; I Belized it!&nbsp; So should you!</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside a Carnival Cruise Ship - Chapter 6</a></p>
<p>
	<br />
	&nbsp;</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Carnival Legend Elevators &#45; Chapter 3</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1396</id>
		<published>2011-11-06T14:15:59Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-25T17:37:00Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	Welcome again to the interior of the Carnival Legend cruise ship.&nbsp; This chapter focuses on the main lobby and the elevators.&nbsp; This is certainly one of the more unique lobbies you will ever find, and that made a perfect opportunity to take some fun HDR photos as seen below.</p>
<h2>
	CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	This is a shot of the main lobby with the three consecutive elevators that bring passengers to their rooms.</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	Looking up is a marvelous scene with layers of textures, lights, and details--perfect for HDR photography.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s another shot looking up underneath the elevators.</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	This is from the opposite side.&nbsp; See the two blobs on top of the curved &quot;U&quot; on top?&nbsp; Those are actually stairs, and the blobs are people ;-) I couldn&#39;t decide which one I liked better, so I thought I&#39;d show you both.</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	I love the way the curved glass of the elevators accentuates the reflections of the interior.&nbsp; This is an image you can stare at and find infinite details.&nbsp; This image would not be possible without HDR.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a closer look at the elevators.</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	I wanted to get these elevators to form perfect symmetry, but I was tired of waiting so here&#39;s the best one I could come up with.&nbsp; These elevators were in constant motion.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	Make sure to click on this image.&nbsp; Ever see &quot;Independence Day&quot; with Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum?&nbsp; This reminds me of the scene where they fly the alien spaceship back to the mothership so they can nuke it.&nbsp; It&#39;s like looking out the window of a spaceship into a docking station.&nbsp; Wow, I&#39;m a nerd...sorry for the rant.&nbsp; I tried looking for the clip so I could prove that my comparison is on point, but I couldn&#39;t find it.&nbsp; I really liked the way this turned out..really puts you in the elevator riding up to the top.</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	Yep, the elevator again.&nbsp; This shot taken near the top.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a wide shot taken while looking down from the top level.&nbsp; Hope you don&#39;t hate heights!</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s another photo which captures the huge art mural.&nbsp; They really need to get a Franklin Arts image in there!</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	&quot;Hello there!&nbsp; Never mind me, Miss.&nbsp; I&#39;m just taking a picture of you for no particular reason.&quot;&nbsp; I was captivated by this scene.&nbsp; We put an awful lot of faith in whoever made these elevators.&nbsp; That&#39;s a long ways down.&nbsp; Kind of eerie.</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside a Carnival Cruise Ship - Chapter 6</a></p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Cozumel Photo Tour &#45; Chapter 2</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1313</id>
		<published>2011-10-30T21:14:14Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-25T17:38:15Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	The first stop on our cruise brings us to Cozumel.&nbsp; While the <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend</a> was very cool and all, it was nice to hit land in pursuit of our adventure with dolphins!</p>
<h2>
	CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h2>
<p>
	{image_1}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a panaromic picture of Cozumel...what a beautiful place surrounded by dreamy blue water!</p>
<p>
	{image_2}</p>
<p>
	We docked right next to another huge cruise ship, the Carnival Triumph.</p>
<p>
	{image_3}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a closer look at these monstrosities.</p>
<p>
	{image_4}</p>
<p>
	Cozumel gave a favorable first impression with a classy entrance (or exit in this case.)&nbsp; The genius in it was all along the corridor of the dock was one long air-conditioned store.&nbsp; There was no going around it..you had to walk through it.&nbsp; They wanted to take your first and last dollar ;-)&nbsp; Don&#39;t get me wrong though...very classy store and super nice to get out of the humidity.</p>
<p>
	{image_5}</p>
<p>
	Cool fountain.&nbsp; No wind.&nbsp; Extremely muggy, but it&#39;s hard to care in paradise.</p>
<p>
	{image_6}</p>
<p>
	Have you ever seen a square tree before?&nbsp; Now you have!</p>
<p>
	{image_7}</p>
<p>
	Here&#39;s a shot of the shoreline.</p>
<p>
	{image_8}</p>
<p>
	We arrive at Chankanaab to meet our dolphin friends!&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_9}</p>
<p>
	A cool lush path that will lead us to them....I hope.</p>
<p>
	{image_10}</p>
<p>
	Looks like this dolphin is as excited as we are to be with them!</p>
<p>
	{image_11}</p>
<p>
	Look, it&#39;s Flipper!&nbsp; Okay, maybe not.&nbsp; Her name is Leesy!</p>
<p>
	{image_12}</p>
<p>
	My wife, Meaghan, gets a push from Leesy.&nbsp; It&#39;s incredible how they can push you effortlessly through the water.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_13}</p>
<p>
	I guess you could say this place is quite fantastic.</p>
<p>
	{image_14}</p>
<p>
	At last...relaxing near a palm tree after our swim with the dolphins.&nbsp; Where&#39;s my Corona?</p>
<p>
	{image_15}</p>
<p>
	This is an HDR shot I took to capture the restaurant view and the ships in the background.&nbsp; It almost looks like a poster on the wall.&nbsp; Sorry for the racy part of this image..I didn&#39;t notice it until I posted it.&nbsp; (I know you&#39;re going to look back at the image now aren&#39;t you?)</p>
<p>
	{image_16}</p>
<p>
	Have you seen these ships yet ;-)&nbsp; You can&#39;t help but photgraph them over and over....at least I can&#39;t anyway.</p>
<p>
	{image_17}</p>
<p>
	See the flag?&nbsp; I believe that identifies the furthest base point of the ship.&nbsp; I could be wrong.&nbsp; Correct me in the comments if I am mistaken.</p>
<p>
	{image_18}</p>
<p>
	They should be called floating cities.</p>
<p>
	{image_19}</p>
<p>
	One guy watches while the other guy works.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	{image_20}</p>
<p>
	Off we go and say goodbye to Cozumel.&nbsp; It was fun.</p>
<p>
	{image_21}</p>
<p>
	Later that night, I captured this eerie scene.&nbsp; Looks like we avoided some storms closer to Cozumel.&nbsp; Each night we would all talk about the absolute most morbid thing imaginable--falling off the ship. Leaning up against the rear railing, staring at the immense wake of the ship and the vast ocean somehow conjures anxiety and fear that is beyond comprehension.&nbsp; I think this picture properly captures that feeling of angst and uncertainty.</p>
<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/">Carnival Legend Photos - Chapter 1</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside a Carnival Cruise Ship - Chapter 6</a></p>

			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Carnival Legend Photo Tour &#45; Chapter 1</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1303</id>
		<published>2011-10-23T19:51:41Z</published>
		<updated>2011-11-25T17:39:42Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	I was lucky enough to take a cruise vacation aboard the Carnival Legend in September.&nbsp; If you&#39;ve never taken a cruise, you better put it on your bucket list!&nbsp; It&#39;s a perfect way to see many destinations, relax, have adventures, and take <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/what-is-hdr/">HDR photos</a>!&nbsp; (Okay, maybe not that last part for everyone.)&nbsp; Seriously though, the cruise ship offers tons of great HDR photo opportunities due to all the different ranges of light.&nbsp; Almost all of these are HDR photos.&nbsp; Stay tuned for many more photos taken on this great adventure (This is only Chapter 1)...it was a blast!</p>
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	CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE</h3>
<p>
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<p>
	Behold, the Carnival Legend!&nbsp; This floating monster was home to around 2,300 passengers, and I was lucky enough to be one of them! (And how about that tropical water?)</p>
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<p>
	I snapped this shot while catching a boat ride from one of the excursions I took (which I&#39;ll document photo-style in a future chapter.)&nbsp;</p>
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<p>
	Look at how long that nose is!&nbsp; (I&#39;m sure &quot;nose&quot; is the accurate nautical term ;-)</p>
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<p>
	I can&#39;t help but think of &quot;Titanic&quot; when looking at this shot from the side.&nbsp; I was hoping for a much better conclusion.</p>
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<p>
	During the evening, I took this HDR photo on the top deck by the pool.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>
	Upon entry on this beautiful water monster, this was one of the first shots I took of the interior.&nbsp; Click on this for FULL effect! I just love how they design the inside to captivate your attention.&nbsp; Taking HDR photos was going to be fun....</p>
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<p>
	This was a grand staircase inside.</p>
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<p>
	...And here it is from a different angle.&nbsp; Not quite as elegant as the Titanic, but still pretty cool, eh?&nbsp; See those people in the elevator wondering what in the world I&#39;m doing?</p>
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<p>
	Okay, so I know what you&#39;re thinking.&nbsp; Yes, I&#39;m a little obsessed with the staircase, but I HAD to get yet another angle!</p>
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<p>
	The stairs led to a formal dining area...and this is a good view of the enormous skylight which lit the interior.</p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s a better view of the dining area...I just loved how the skylight cast down shadows which fit the design of the carpet pattern almost perfectly.</p>
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<p>
	This is a shot of the huge art mural..I&#39;m hoping to convince the architects of the Carnival cruise ships to use some Franklin Arts stuff for future ships!</p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s another one of my favorite HDR shots where I tried to include as much as I could in the frame.</p>
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<p>
	This last one is the same scene, but at night.&nbsp; I really like how lights made the inside look like a spaceship.&nbsp; Also, the skylight during the day shots cast a pretty thick pink tint, and this shot escapes it a bit.</p>
<p>
	This trip had me taking tons of photos, so stay tuned for more shots of the ship along with our island excursions...beautiful beaches and skies ahead.</p>
<p>
	Next stop....Cozumel!&nbsp; Teaser photo below ;-)</p>
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<p>
	Make sure to check out the other chapters of the cruise excursion including many intriguing HDR images:</p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/cozumel-photos/">Cozumel Excursion Photos - Chapter 2</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/carnival-legend-elevators/">Carnival Legend Elevators - Chapter 3</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/belize-photos/">You Better Belize It - Chapter 4</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/roatan-island-photos/">Roatan Island Photos - Chapter 5</a></p>
<p>
	<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/inside-carnival-legend-photos/">Inside a Carnival Cruise Ship - Chapter 6</a></p>
	<br />
	&nbsp;</p>


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		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Colorado Photo Journey &#45; A Wedding in the Wilderness</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/colorado-photos/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1293</id>
		<published>2011-10-08T22:14:06Z</published>
		<updated>2011-10-11T22:07:08Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	This summer, I took a trip with my family to Red Feather Lakes near Ft. Collins, Colorado.&nbsp; Our final destination was Beaver Creek Meadows Resort.&nbsp; Our purpose for the journey was to attend a wedding at this beautiful Colorado location.</p>
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	<strong>CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE.</strong></h3>
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<p>
	Beaver Creek Meadows Resort is tucked amidst the beautiful Colorado mountains.&nbsp; This is one of many HDR photos I took here in Colorado.&nbsp; If you&#39;re asking yourself, &quot;<a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/what-is-hdr/">what is HDR?</a>&quot; i&#39;ve written an article to explain it.</p>
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	During the first hours there we were greeted by a bright rainbow.</p>
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	Unfortunately, the Pine Beetles (or something similar) made their presence known.&nbsp; The trees that are red in color suffer from the infestation.&nbsp; From what I hear, it&#39;s been a very big problem in Colorado.</p>
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	Beaver Creek Meadow has a stream that runs through it and plenty of vegetation, including these beautiful flowers, surrounding it.</p>
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	This HDR shot captures the booming clouds behind the trees.</p>
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	You&#39;ll definitely want to enlarge this picture (click on it) to see the horses in the middle.</p>
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	The Resort has a couple of ponds with some pretty active fish.&nbsp; You can see the ripples of one that just jumped (right part of the frame.)</p>
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<p>
	As I took pictures throughout several days, I kept seeing the same lonely duck which is swimming toward the horses in this shot.</p>
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<p>
	My wife, Meaghan, and I hit the road to catch some scenic shots.</p>
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<p>
	We found this lake that had a really interesting tree that towered over the front of the lake.</p>
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<p>
	We found yet another lake, but the real bummer was that I couldn&#39;t get close to the shore since it must have been private property.&nbsp; The fences were literally 10 feet tall with barbed wire on top, so I had to get on the top of a hill just off the road to get a shot of this.</p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s another shot of the lodge from across the water.</p>
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<p>
	With this HDR shot, I was able to capture the interesting sky behind the lodge during the evening.</p>
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<p>
	One of Colorado&#39;s iconic symbols is the Aspen, and I must say, these trees are mighty tall!</p>
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<p>
	The resort has a really neat bridge that overpasses the pond.</p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s another look at the bridge from another angle.&nbsp; I didn&#39;t notice the bird in flight until I processed this photo.&nbsp; Do you see it? You might need to click on the image to enlarge it.</p>
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<p>
	Meaghan and I took our son AJ out to explore the scene.</p>
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<p>
	I think AJ was pretty happy about it!</p>
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<p>
	I&#39;m pretty obsessed about sunsets.&nbsp; After taking some sunrise photos this trip, I may have to pursue them more aggressively from now on.&nbsp; I marvel at morning light. It just makes everything glow.&nbsp; This is an HDR shot.</p>
<p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s another HDR sunrise photo which includes the lodge to the left.&nbsp; It was a pretty breathtaking view from our window of the lodge I must say.</p>
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<p>
	And, I figured I might as well get another HDR photo of the other side of the pond. I just love those rays coming off the sun and hitting the trees!</p>
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<p>
	This is one of those shots that I obsessed about.&nbsp; It took me quite awhile to finally compile the different exposures required for it.&nbsp; The position of the sun was key so that it could hide behind the bridge and cast light on the stream coming at me.&nbsp; It took quite a bit of processing work, but I&#39;m glad this one turned out the way I had envisioned it.</p>
<p>
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<p>
	The morning sun made the colors of the scene warm and rich.</p>
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<p>
	Another angle reveals the lodge and the tents that were used for wedding events.</p>
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<p>
	Here&#39;s a panoramic shot comprised of 7 different shots together.</p>
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<p>
	That morning there was not a single soul around...and I came across this mysterious bike.</p>
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<p>
	The sun shot its rays through the trees.</p>
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<p>
	The lonely duck made an appearance once again.</p>
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<p>
	The rose petals revealed the special wedding from the previous night.</p>
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<p>
	The next day I had to catch another sunrise!</p>
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<p>
	The lonely duck decided to visit the horses again.</p>
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<p>
	I wandered around to view the huge Colorado Aspens again.</p>
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<p>
	Humingbirds, from what I hear, are pretty common throughout the area.&nbsp; I&#39;m used to seeing hummingbirds half this size in South Dakota...they are certainly a fantastic photo opportunity.</p>
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<p>
	HDR processing allowed me to process this photo to include the sun flare, yet retain details in the landscape.&nbsp; A normal one-shot exposure would not allow this detail.</p>
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<p>
	This is another photograph that was extremely challenging, and one which required many different exposures to capture the cascading waterfall and the bright sunlit sky.&nbsp; Processing photos like this is a true challenge I really enjoy.</p>
<p>
	{image_40}</p>
<p>
	Whaddya know....the lonely duck is back again;-)&nbsp; This time I was able to capture a great HDR shot so the beautiful blue break in the clouds could be seen in the sky beyond the leaning tree.</p>
<p>
	{image_36}</p>
<p>
	The next morning, we left the resort early in the morning and we were welcomed with an outstanding sunrise...i couldn&#39;t have asked for more.&nbsp; Our wonderful driver, Keith, pulled over so I could take these next several shots.&nbsp; This one is an HDR shot of our path.</p>
<p>
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<p>
	I marveled at the way the breaks in the clouds spread out the rays across the mountains.</p>
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<p>
	This was a panaromic shot of the Colorado mountains...this was comprised using 10 photos...I wish you could see the actual size....it&#39;s HUGE!</p>
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<p>
	And finally, this HDR shot of the beautiful Colorado sunrise left a lasting impression on all of us for sure.&nbsp; I was so excited to be in front of this breathtaking scene.&nbsp; It was yet another way this trip made me truly understand that I should pay more attention to sunrise photos and not just <a href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/art/sunset-pictures/">sunset photos</a>!</p>
<p>
	Beaver Creek Meadows Resort near Red Feather Lakes is certainly a beautiful place and a great place to have a wedding and relax!</p>
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			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>

	<entry>
		<title>Swimming with Fish in Paradise</title>
		<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wallartdecorstore.com/blog/entry/swimming-with-fish-in-paradise/" />
		<id>tag:wallartdecorstore.com,2011:blog/4.1275</id>
		<published>2011-09-28T00:03:46Z</published>
		<updated>2011-09-28T00:10:47Z</updated>
		<author>
			<name>Kyle Neuberger</name>
		</author>
		<content type="html">
			<![CDATA[

			
			<p>
	You ever have one of those moments where you take a picture and can&#39;t wait to develop/process it so you can see what it looks like on your monitor?&nbsp; Well, let&#39;s just say I couldn&#39;t help myself with this one ;-)&nbsp; Just this past weekend I was lucky enough to be swimming among fish on the beach of West Bay on Roatan Island.&nbsp; It was beyond gorgeous, and strangely enough, it was my second visit there.&nbsp; I got to finally show my wife what I would define as the closest thing to paradise as I&#39;ve ever seen.&nbsp; Enjoy.&nbsp; Stay tuned for many, many more pictures to come from my excursion these past many days.</p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	<img alt="Roatan Island, Honduras Beach Photo" src="/media/site_images/TROPIC-Franklin_Arts.jpg" /></p>


			]]>
		</content>
	</entry>


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