Calling all aspiring photographers! I’m thrilled to announce a giveaway for my cherished 35mm Canon camera! In this video, I’ll walk you through the entry process and share some of my top photography hacks that will help you make the most of this amazing camera. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this is the perfect opportunity to enhance your photography journey. Be sure to subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss any updates! #CanonGiveaway #PhotographyCommunity #capturethemoment
Category: Review
Top Spots for Fall Foliage Photography in Cookeville
All photos taken November 2nd, 2025
Imagine crisp air and leaves bursting in reds, oranges, and golds around a sparkling lake. That’s Cane Creek Park in Cookeville, Tennessee, during fall. This spot turns into a painter’s dream with its mix of water and trees that make colors glow.
Nestled in the Upper Cumberland area, the park draws folks from miles around for fall foliage photography. You get calm waters that mirror the bright leaves, plus trails lined with maples and oaks. It’s a top pick for snapping pictures of the fall colors from Cane Creek Park in Cookeville TN.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best spots to shoot, when to go, gear you need, and tips to edit your shots. You’ll walk away ready to grab your camera and capture that autumn magic. Let’s dive in and make your photos stand out.
All photos taken with Canon 5D Mark II using 24-105mm L F4 Lens edited in Lightroom.
Capturing Moments at Nashville’s Cars N Coffee Event
The crisp October air hits you first. It carries a hint of wood smoke from nearby bonfires. Then comes the sharp scent of fuel mixed with wet leaves on the ground. Engines rumble low in the distance, pulling you into the heart of the action. This is the October Cars N Coffee event, where gearheads gather before heading to the Nashville Super Speedway. As a photographer who lives for these moments, I grab my camera and dive in. Here, I’ll share the sights I captured, from quiet chats over coffee to cars blurring past at full throttle. Join me on this ride through steel beasts and shared stories.
The Morning Ritual: Nashville Cars N Coffee in Full Swing
The October Cars N Coffee meet feels like a family reunion for car lovers. Folks show up early with their prized rides. The lot fills with everything from old muscle cars to shiny new trucks. Laughter echoes as people swap tips on wax jobs or engine tweaks.
Early Arrivals and Sunrise Shots
I always aim to get there by dawn. The golden hour light paints the vehicles in warm glows. It softens edges and highlights chrome details just right. Arriving early lets you catch rare finds pulling in, like a ’67 Mustang fresh from a garage restore. For photographers, pack a wide-angle lens to grab those first rays bouncing off hoods. Keep your tripod steady against the morning chill.
The variety blows me away each time. You spot classics like a Ford Model A next to a sleek Tesla. Some owners polish their rides for hours before dawn. This mix shows how car culture spans generations. I snapped a few shots of a vintage Chevy pickup, its faded paint telling tales of backroad runs.
Community Vibe and Collector Spotlights
What makes October Cars N Coffee special is the people. Owners lean on fenders, sharing how they rebuilt engines from scratch. Kids point at dream cars, eyes wide with wonder. I love catching these candid chats— a quick zoom in on smiles over steaming mugs.
One story stuck with me this year. Meet Tom, with his ’55 Bel Air. He spent two years fixing it after a flood. We talked mods while I framed shots of its candy-apple red finish. His pride shone brighter than the paint. Moments like that remind you it’s not just about the metal. It’s the bonds formed over a shared love.
From Static Display to Apex Predator: Transition to the Nashville Super Speedway
The morning coffee chats wind down. Engines rev up as the group heads out. The shift from calm parking lot to roaring track hits like a gear change. Static beauty gives way to raw power. You feel the buzz build with every mile.
Conclusion: Fueling the Fire Until November
The day wrapped community warmth with speed’s edge. From coffee-fueled talks to banking battles, it was pure fuel for the soul. I captured slices of passion that words alone can’t touch.
Mark your calendar for the next Cars N Coffee. Head to Nashville Super Speedway when you can. Grab your lens or just your eyes. Dive into the local scene—it’s waiting. You won’t regret the roar.
Insta 360 Ace Pro 2 Changed How I Film Forever
In this video, I share my personal journey with the Insta 360 Ace Pro 2 and how it has completely changed the way I film! With its innovative technology and user-friendly design, this camera has opened up a world of creative possibilities. I’ll walk you through my favorite features, share some behind-the-scenes footage, and give you insights on how to elevate your own filming game. If you’re looking to enhance your video production skills, this is the video for you! Make sure to subscribe for more tips and reviews! #Insta360AcePro2 #VideoProduction #CreativeFilmmaking
Cedar Glade Trail: An Accessible Adventure for All Hikers
Nestled within the serene landscapes of Cedars of Lebanon State Park, the Cedar Glade Trail offers a captivating hiking experience that showcases the beauty of Tennessee’s natural wonders. With its diverse flora, stunning vistas, and unique wildlife encounters, this trail invites adventurers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings. In this article, I’ll share my personal hiking experience on the Cedar Glade Trail, along with a selection of photographs that capture the essence of this beautiful journey. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast, join me as we explore what makes this trail a must-visit destination.
Skill Level Required
Cedar Glade Trail is considered an easy-to-moderate hike, making it accessible for most skill levels. If you can walk without tripping over your own feet, you’re good to go! Families with children can also tackle this one, just be prepared for a few “Are we there yet?” moments.
Video to come this Tuesday
Canon 16-35mm L Lens Review: First Impressions
I picked up a Canon 16-35mm L Lens: My First Impressions and Why You Might Want One
Getting professional camera gear always feels good. The Canon L-series lenses are famous for a reason. For many years, I saw amazing photos taken with the Canon 16-35mm L. This lens is known for great wide-angle shots. Not long ago, I finally bought this special lens for my camera bag. It’s more than just owning an L lens. It means I can try new ways to take pictures. I can also see why many photographers love this lens so much.
This 16-35mm lens range works for many things. It’s great for taking pictures of nature or documenting events. But does it really live up to all the talk? In this article, I will share my honest thoughts on the Canon 16-35mm L lens. We will look at how it feels, how it works, and what kinds of photos it takes best. Are you thinking about buying a better lens? Or do you just want to know about this well-known lens? Come along as I show you why the Canon 16-35mm L is an important tool for photographers.
Capture the Charm: Walking Around Downtown Franklin TN with a Canon SL3
Explore Downtown Franklin TN through your camera lens. This historic town is a picture-perfect place no matter the season. Its friendly streets, charming shops, and beautiful architecture make it a dream for casual photographers. The Canon SL3 stands out as the perfect tool for capturing every moment, big or small, during your walk. Why? Because it’s simple to use and shoots stunning photos. Whether you’re new to photography or have some experience, the Canon SL3 helps you turn everyday scenes into memorable images.
Main Street shines with quaint storefronts, vintage signs, and historic architecture. Frame these with the rule of thirds, and include people for lively scenes. Capture reflections in windowpanes or the textures of old bricks. Look for small details like porch swings or flower boxes that tell stories of local life.
Walking through Downtown Franklin TN is a unique experience—rich history, lively streets, and beautiful scenes await around every corner. Your Canon SL3 is the perfect companion to capture these moments simply and beautifully. By mastering its features and understanding the area’s best photo spots, you’re set to create a collection of memories that last. Get out, explore, and let your camera tell Franklin’s story through your eyes.
Capture Nature’s Beauty with the Sony A100 and 50mm f/1.7 Lens
Nature walks are more than just a way to enjoy fresh air—they’re perfect for capturing stunning photos. Photography not only sparks creativity but also boosts mental well-being. When you pair the Sony A100 DSLR with a 50mm f/1.7 lens, you get a powerful combo ideal for outdoor photography. This prime lens shines in sunny and cloudy conditions alike, giving you sharp, detailed images of landscapes, flowers, and wildlife. Let’s explore how to make your outdoor shots stand out with this equipment.
Mastering Composition and Focus with the 50mm f/1.7 Lens
Focal Length: The Power of 50mm for Nature Shots
A 50mm lens offers a natural perspective similar to what the human eye sees. It’s perfect for framing both wide landscapes and intimate details like a flower or insect. You can bring distant trees closer or isolate a tiny mushroom without distortion. Its versatility makes it a favorite for outdoor photographers.
Maximize Image Quality in Nature Photography
Control Depth of Field
At f/1.7, background blur (bokeh) is stunning, perfect to emphasize your subject. For landscapes:
- Use smaller apertures (f/8 or f/11) to keep everything sharp
- Try different apertures to see what best highlights your scene
Real-World Examples and Inspiring Shots
A photographer once captured a butterfly on a vibrant flower, using a wide aperture to blur the background beautifully. The image’s sharp focus on the butterfly’s wings made it feel like it was ready to fly off the screen. The key? The right lens at the right moment, paired with thoughtful composition. Skilled outdoor photographers often praise the Sony A100 for its reliability, combined with the 50mm f/1.7 for capturing fine details.
Conclusion
Exploring nature with your Sony A100 and 50mm f/1.7 lens unlocks endless creative possibilities. Prepare well, plan your timing, and master your camera’s settings. Focus on composition and practice patience. With these tips, every walk can become a chance to take stunning photos that tell the story of the outdoors. So grab your gear, hit the trails, and start capturing nature’s beauty today. Your best shot might be just around the next bend.
Transform Your Trail Photos with the Olympus PEN Mini
Join me on an exciting hiking adventure as I explore the great outdoors with my Olympus PEN E-PM1! In this video, I’ll share tips on capturing stunning landscape shots, the best settings for nature photography, and how to make the most of this compact camera while on the trail. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, you’ll find valuable insights to enhance your photography skills. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more outdoor adventures! #HikingPhotography #OlympusPEN #NatureLovers
My First Photos with the Olympus E-PM1 Micro Four Thirds Camera: A Beginner’s Guide
Starting out with a mirrorless camera like the Olympus E-PM1 feels exciting. It’s small enough to carry everywhere but offers big picture quality. Whether you’re into city streets, nature, or family moments, this camera can do it all. Your first shots might not be perfect, but they will teach you what this little camera is capable of. Learning the camera’s features helps you take sharper, clearer photos that stand out.
Understanding the Olympus E-PM1 Micro Four Thirds Camera
Overview of the Olympus E-PM1
The Olympus E-PM1 is a tiny powerhouse made for beginners. Its compact size makes it perfect for travel, street photography, or everyday use. It packs a 12-megapixel sensor that captures sharp images even in tricky light. You can change lenses easily, thanks to its Micro Four Thirds mount, giving you many creative options. Launched in 2011, it’s considered a solid entry in Olympus’s mirrorless lineup.
Why Micro Four Thirds System Matters
The Micro Four Thirds system is smaller than traditional DSLR setups. That means your camera and lenses are lighter and easier to carry. It works with a wide range of Olympus and third-party lenses. While the sensor isn’t as large as full-frame cameras, it still delivers great image quality. This setup is perfect if you want a balance of portability and image detail.
Essential Accessories for Better Photos
A versatile kit lens, like the 14-42mm, is ideal for beginners. Consider a small tripod for steady shots or landscapes. Extra batteries keep you shooting longer, and SD cards with plenty of space mean you won’t run out of memory. Using a camera strap helps you hold the camera steady and avoid drops.
Conclusion
Getting started with the Olympus E-PM1 isn’t about taking perfect shots right away. It’s about practice, experimenting, and understanding your camera’s features. Start with simple scenes—flowers, your pet, or city streets—and review the results. Over time, you’ll see your skills improve. Keep exploring different genres, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your journey into photography begins with just a click.
Mid Tn Outdoors 