They’re like a spell from Albus Dumbledore.

They could be from the brush of Thomas Kinkade, Painter of Light

Or suddenly appear in an episode of J.J. Abrams LOST.

Northern Lights by Flickr user Joar Andre

The Northern Lights appear magical, conjured, out-of-this-world and spell binding. Who wouldn’t want to see them?In anticipation of Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant and Karl Pilkington bringing us Season 2 of The Idiot Abroad, The Bucket List, I figured the Northern Lights would be a good topic. I’m really not a fan of ‘bucket lists’ – it’s kind of annoying phrase, but renaming this topic to Pail Tally reeks of pretense. So begrudgingly, it’s bucket list.

But back to the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights by Flickr user Kaimp

They appeal to me on several levels -

• It’s a far away trip to a place I’ve never visited
• It involves lots of photography
• I’d eat a ton of seafood
• It would reveal unforgettable imagery

Northern Lights by Flick user 11304375@N07

Norway and the Northern Lights (obviously Northern Canada or Alaska would suffice). I love getting up early with camera, although in this case, it would mean staying up late. Either way, the thought of standing patiently outside in freezing temperatures, waiting for the skies to clear, wary of my eyelid sticking to my viewfinder sounds like….heaven. After all, aren’t the Northern Lights almost like a glimpse of heaven?

Connecting with nature...

Since grabbing this image at dusk in the Valley of Fire, I’ve been more serious about photography and the natural environment. Instead of simply planning travel to travel, I’ve been thinking about travel for photography. I’d like to think that I’m becoming more serious about life, finding new connections to our environment and slowly building a more beautiful legacy to leave behind. Time will tell, but in the meantime, that’s my path.

So, the Northern Lights it is. Hvordan sier man dette på norsk?

Where would you go, camera in hand?

This is my top-5 viewed images post of 2011.

And I’m slightly surprised. Two of them aren’t technically photographs. Two of them were taken with my iPhone. One is a real photograph. This is so different from my top photos of 2011. Go figure.

Here’s number 5. A collage I made of my Dad in the 70′s. I’m not surprised he made it – his photographs got lots of views this year.

A collage of my Dad

Keep reading for number 4….

This is a gift from my friend Brian Darrow, a brilliant Lego Creator. In 2010, his LEGO replica of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway lived at the Hall of Fame Museum over Christmas. He gave me this as a thank you gift. This is an incredible 1911 Marmon Wasp replica. But a horrible photo. Again, go figure.

Lego Marmon Wasp

This is a photo I really like, taken on Bump Day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Danica Patrick was facing a tough day ahead of her, trying to qualify for the Indianapolis 500. I remember thinking she would easily qualify, simply because of the look in her eye. She did.

Danica on Bump Day

A simple photo of a LEGO shop in a Sao Paulo shopping mall. It just goes to show, sometimes content popularity is about the right tags or metadata (or feature a clown). This is my 2nd most viewed photo of 2011! Seriously.

Lego in SP

And my most viewed photography of 2011? Well it’s an image. A scanned image of one of my Collectible Robot Boxes. I’m pretty sure this image got embedded by another site. But it’s number one and it’s not even my photograph, although it is my scan. Break out the champagne.

Watch out for those beams

Those are the top-5, no kidding.

Goal for 2012 – get more views for my actual photographs!

The metrics point in the right direction

The reflection part is what determines the next step forward. It guides the guidebook. Here’s what occurred digitally this year and it revolves around three themes – content, personality and relationships. These 3 simple, but often overlooked methods point to positive results, analytics and overall metrics.

Content. I agree with the saying, content is king, but how about an amendment? Engaging, thoughtful, authentic content is king

2011 saw a big shift in the type of content IMS distributed online. Traditionally, press releases were the main focal point of the site. Towards the end of 2010, we began initiating new content, first through the IMS blog as an experiment and then into the forefront of the IMS site. If you look back on our blog, it provided some incredibly successful content case studies – Gasoline Alley Unplugged, live blogging,even a piece on a LEGO replica of IMS. It quickly illustrated a void in the online experience for our fans. Publish more content.

The incredible work of Brian Darrow

In ’11 we began shifting a lot of blog material directly to the main site, mixing together official press releases, news reporting (working with external writers) and informal pieces. We broadened our horizons to post more content related to our events: Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Red Bull Indianapolis GP. Additionally, we looked to the past and highlighted the history of IMS through photo galleries, the drivers that have raced at IMS events, and mixed that with some modern technology to enable Facebook  comments and instant sharing to your wall. One-way communication now became a dialogue. We are listening to our fans. It’s helping us gauge the type of content embraced by our visitors.

In support of the Centennial running of the Indianapolis 500, we also produced a fan focused micro site called The Greatest 33, that in many ways challenged us to pull together and generate new digital assets – bios, images, audio and video clips. This in turn, fed our main site. Overall, we leveraged content around the IMS brand as a strategy, with the end result being a new, engaging experience for our customers in the online space. In 2012, we’re actually redesigning aspects of the IMS site to help support more content for our visitors, continued two-way dialogue and the tools for us to be more responsive to the ever changing world of motorsports and entertainment.

Some key indicators that helped shape this direction – over 50% increase in overall page views, significant increase in time spent on site, and dramatic growth, reach and engagement via Facebook.

Personality. I can bore you to death my thoughts on giving technology a personality. But on the most basic level, your website should have a personality. Do corporations have personalities? Yes.

Use history or the brand to reveal a personality

Adding personality into the online space was directly tied to integrating content into our online consumer experience. The content itself provided a new personality. Our content spanned a number different areas or immersive experiences and was based on current events, one of our 3 main races races or something more emotive, like history, a Q&A with an expert, live video streaming, or first person authoring. Instead of mandating the personality through static, one-way communication pages, we provided an every-changing, varied perspective on IMS, the events and it’s strong connection to motorsports and entertainment. The overall voice was controlled, but there was a new menu to choose from and the content items offered new, unexpected experiences online that encouraged feedback.

The success of this is reflected in our overall social media growth (specifically Facebook), much higher international traffic when compared to 2010 and a lower bounce rate.

Relationships. Even in the online, digital realm, success comes down to relationships. We looked within and stepped outside, to strengthen our relationships that led to stronger online partnerships, better promotion, improved sponsorship ROI, and importantly new content opportunities. Sometimes that requires a birds eye view.

Sometimes you need a fresh perspective

Leveraging relationships can lead to new online traffic, especially when social media is part of the collaboration – this opens the door for a new (unique) visitor that may not know your brand. This is all easily achieved through cross-promotion, RT’s, Facebook posts, contests and shared emails. Not rocket science, but I don’t think we can ever do a good enough job at this.

Other relationships emphasized content (I’m sure you’re noticing a trend here). We stepped outside of our own world to hire some very good writers, knowledgeable about our history and types of motorsports associated with our different events. They brought a fresh perspective and a different form of credibility. This also shifted the assumed role of the IMS website to integrate current news and events into the existing platform of PR and ticket/event sales. It was a slightly different handshake with out customers.

In the digital space, we focused on improving our relationships and collaborative opportunites with NASCAR, Grand-AM, SPEED, LAT Photography, MotoGP (Dorna), and more. which resulted in, you guessed it, new content for our fans. This was a perfect compliment to our existing relationship to INDYCAR and gave our online visitors new reasons to visit us. We had up-to-date news on racing.

Compelling content added value to someone visiting the IMS website, improved our distribution through social media, and enhanced the overall messaging we communicated via email to our subscribers.

We're trying to bring fans closer to the experience

Our unique views for the IMS site are considerably higher when compared to 2010. It shows we’re on the right trajectory with content, forging partnerships and allowing the company to express itself online.

I’ve not told you anything you probably didn’t know already, or could be gleaned by simply studying the IMS website.We’re essentially using common sense, standard practices and creativity.

What I am very clearly stating, is this: we’ve barely scratched the surface. The infrastructure is there. The interest is there. And the content is there.

What does 2012 look like? That part’s a secret, but I’m very confident.

But here’s one hint. It will be all about our fans.

A couple of weeks ago I included 10 of my favorite 2011 photographs and asked for your feedback. I got some blog comments, some emails and some recommendations in person. So thank you so much. Here’s the photograph I selected, mainly because of your feedback.

What a way to start the day

And here’s the story behind this photograph (if you’re wondering).

I spent almost two weeks in Las Vegas this past October and after a week of being there, I needed a creative outlet, so I borrowed a camera from a colleague/friend. I decided to venture out and shoot a different side of Vegas. One of these spots included sunrise in the Valley of Fire.

As usual, like most of my planning, there was very little prep work done. I had directions to the Valley of Fire and knew the gates would be open. Beyond that, I knew very little – especially conceivably important things a photographer should know, like ideal locations or stunning views. But ya’ll should know me by now. And if I’m really being honest, I came awfully close to just hitting snooze when the alarm went off at 4am.

This image is the perfect manifestation of my luck at times. I drove into the Valley of Fire as darkness slowly considered transitioning into light. I read signs, marveled at the sillhouettes of the rock formations and sipped coffee out of my travel mug. I was as usual, happily clueless. Driving down what I considered the main road the through the Valley, I noticed a new road to the left. And to quote Yogi Berra -

When you come to a fork in the road, take it.

I turned left, weaved around some corners, and noticed a really interesting rock formation with an arch/hole. There was also a car parked already. Intrigued, I got out with my camera and one lens, scanned the ground for snakes, scorpions and other critters and walked around the formation for closer inspection.

I made it around the big rock without tripping or a snake bite and encountered a professional photographer. The real deal. Tripod, vest with 34 pockets and a moustache. I tipped my head to him and walked around his shot. That’s when I noticed what he was stalking. He was hunting the perfect shot. That moment when the moon would drop ever so slightly, and fit perfectly in the cradle of the awaiting rock archway. Good for him I thought. Lucky me I muttered under my breath.

We didn’t talk. And I felt absolutely no embarrassment when sans tripod, and standing right behind him and that impressive vest, I jumped up in the air to capture this shot. He may have looked at me with some level of judgement or disdain, but I just grinned as I looked at the captured image. Perfect I thought.

I left, careful not to interfere with his shot, wary of a gang of scorpions and hopped back in my Mum’s car. There I sipped on my coffee, got back on the main road and went on to more hapless discovery.

Like I said, this shot was entirely down to luck. Often with photography it’s down to the timing or being in the right place at the right time. Or in my case, just being the lucky fool. I don’t really mind, even if at times I resemble Inspector Clouseau. This approach has paid off so many times for me – especially when traveling.

Who knows what 2012 will bring?

Thanks again to everyone that took time to share their opinions on my photography and for continually reading my posts. It does mean a lot to me.

Sit back and enjoy. Mostly pictures here on out. Thanks!

1) Some images are down to luck and timing. This is one of them. An adoring fan looks on as Takuma Sato signs autographs. It was one of the few times the lensbaby lens actually did what I wanted it to do.

Happy fan

2) I’d never been in a helicopter until my friend at work, Ron Pitman asked if I could grab some shots for him. I obliged. I love how the streets frame the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and lead the eye downtown.

Intersection of streets

3) It was gorgeous Spring morning in Chicago and I was staying near the John Hancock. I went with the fish eye and love how it seems like the other buildings are reaching out for a hug.

The John Hancock

4) A very simple composition, but I like the repetition and this particular color blue.

Smurf seats

5) I love this shot because it captures the vastness of Sao Paulo and the fish eye plays nicely with puffy blue clouds.

Clouds sprinkled over Sao Paulo

6) For all the lavish colors at the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, I fell in love with monochromatic roof colors. I love how they blended that day with nature, the overcast sky and deep green of the trees.

Lush and roof tops

7) Definitely timing on this one. The early bird catches the worm, even in the Valley of Fire desert.

Arch and Moon

One of the coolest places in Las Vegas – The Neon Museum. The colors just pop in the bright sunlight.

Lady Luck

9) This was definitely the year of the fish eye lens. And also, my first visit to Times Square. I just like this shot.

THE Times Square

10) I love the rituals and preparations drivers go through before taking the track. Love this shot of Danica Patrick readying.

Getting ready

There’s my 10.

Which one would you submit?

I often pass the same woman selling bootleg DVD’s. I’ve chased thieves in bare feet, after they broke into my car. People have knocked on our door in the middle of the night asking for money. I’ve also been given delicious cookies by a stranger. I coached the St. Richards Dragons to an undefeated, Championship winning soccer season. And I’ve run every conceivable route in my neighborhood. I know it well.

The top of Indianapolis

My number one destination? Crown Hill Cemetery, just a few blocks from my house.

In my opinion, it’s one of the most underrated places in the city – and not just for what everyone else in the city will tell you:

• The views
• The highest point in Indianapolis (the Crown, if you will)
• Some of the people buried there: Booth Tarkington, James Whitcomb Riley, Erwin “Cannonball” Baker, John Dillinger, the Sudoko inventor (Howard Garns), and the poet, Sarah T. Bolton (there are lots more!)
• 555 acres
• Lots of critters
• Over 150 trees and species
• Almost 200,000 graves

It’s much more. It’s my spot to escape and I’ve done it many times. I’ve been there to play in the leaves, to take photographs, to picnic, to run, to walk, to smoke a cigar, to think, and to simply breathe. It really is an Indianapolis gem. And it just so happens, it’s right in my crazy ass neighborhood.

It makes my special neighborhood, that much more special.

I’m not sure how this Vonnegut quote fits into this post, but it feels right to me, so here it is:

All time is all time. It does not change. It does not lend itself to warnings or explanations. It simply is. Take it moment by moment, and you will find that we are all, as I’ve said before, bugs in amber.

If this post hasn’t swayed you to visit Crown Hill, that’s OK. Watch the video below, simply for the view. Then try and hike it up to the Crown.

I wanted to honor this region in some way. And I wanted to do something healthy, creative and thoughtful. So I grabbed my camera.

When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence. ~Ansel Adams

I’m not even an Ansel Adams fan, but this quote spoke to me. It’s perfect.

Here are some of my images from the Las Vegas area, along with links to lots more. There’s more to this city than just pool parties. I hope you see a new side to it.

Red Rock Canyon – 30-45 minutes from Vegas and a very easy escape. Rich colors where blues and reds collide. You can see all of my pics here.

Putting the red in Red Rock

Valley of Fire – about an hour from Vegas, but quite simply, a magical place. The light constantly changes, creating a beautiful visual experience. Lots more pics, here.

Simply magical

Neon Museum Boneyard – just near downtown Las Vegas – a small, up and coming museum devoted to restoring and celebrating the neon signs of Las Vegas. It’s great design, nerdy and right up my alley. Full gallery, here.

Luck be a lady...

Three wonderful experiences, done in 12 hours tops. Each visit was uniquely beautiful, therapeutic, healing, and inspiring.

And with that, I’ll let the photographs speak from themselves. Another pic from the Valley of Fire below.

Moon peaking through

Thank you Las Vegas.

I’ve stood in the shadows of Notre Dame, marveled at the Sagrada Familia, wandered through St. Peter’s Basilica, stood in the heat at Ephesus, documented the holy week procession in Navalcarnero, discovered Hindu temples in Singapore, witnessed the call to prayer in Turkey, and visited the Creation Museum in Kentucky. Regardless of the location or type of religion, it’s always an unforgettable experience.

The Sacred Bridge at Nikko

Shinkyo – the Sacred Bridge (above), was the first thing I encountered today. It’s across from the 38 buildings of Rinnō-ji temple, surrounded by streets and modernity. But it still stands out. And it’s much more beautiful in person.

The Rinnō-ji Temple area is massive. It’s endless. It’s a steady upward hike. It’s lush. It feels like a time capsule. It has many, many stories to tell. And there are 38 different buildings, including this stunning five-story pagoda.

Stunning Pagoda

It’s an exhausting but worthwhile trek. I was struck by the craftsmanship, the colors, the intricacy and beauty that seemed so perfectly placed within nature. It was a seamless blend of human made structures and the natural environment.

Lush and roof tops

Eight of the 38 buildings are considered National Treasures in Japan. And this is Japan we’re talking about. The place is spectacular.

I do love reflections

Aside from the cultural experience, the exposure to so much Buddhist history and absorbing such a serene, perfectly conceived environment – there was another positive. It’s utterly impossible to take a bad photograph. And for me, that was the entire purpose of this venture. I wanted to lose myself behind the lens of camera. I wanted to find beauty in the details. I wanted to become fascinated, obsessed even, with lines and curves. I wanted to hear that shutter and know that I had captured something special.

So that’s what I did today. In my world, that makes for a perfect day. So, enjoy some more images below.

So where next?

Love this blue

He's carrying a bow and arrow

One of the many buildings

The lines lead the eye

I’m in Japan for a bit and I came prepared to document. That means as many blog posts as possible – or as an internet connection will allow.

I brought some good gear. A Canon EOS-1 Mark IV. A wide angle lens, fisheye and lensbaby. I also have a GoPro HD camera. I also have lots on my mind – so I’m hoping to capture my thoughts on travel, the people, the food and the sights. I always have a tough time with Jet Lag in Asia, so I might come off a little loopier than normal. Oh, I’m also here for work, so expect some cool racing stuff.

So get ready for my take on Japan. It’s my favorite place.

Shooting from the window of a bus

I know the racing culture very well. Mainly because of my father. I’ve come to have immense respect for the mechanics that work on teams and the photographers that capture such captivating imagery. I could never be a mechanic (I can barely handle something from IKEA) and I only dabble in photography. So I quietly respect from afar.

I can’t hold a disposable camera to my photographic colleagues from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, LAT Photo USA, Japan media, Firestone, local media and many, many more. But today I was a willing and very, very happy imposter. In fact it was unforgettable. I went out in the field and actually shot cars at speed. For real.

Dude, I shot the start of a race

I walked over the Turn 1 with my colleague Shawn Gritzmacher (who convinced me to do it in the first place), my camera body, a mono pod, and THE BIGGEST LENS I’ve ever seen – a Canon 500mm. It was the size of a miniature pony, and like a miniature pony, I wasn’t even sure how to hold it (that’s what she said).

How would you pick this up?

Fortunately Shawn gave me some tips and helped me set up the camera levels, as did Dennis Ashlock from Firestone. I practiced as the cars did their pace laps and shot away for the start. See first image above – not the cute pony. Cars flew into the corner and I fired off probably 20 clicks. Wow.

I then hightailed it about 50 yards to another vantage point in the first corner. This was a completely different challenge. With less space, less of a focal point, and less time to compose – I had to frame my shots perfectly to even grab something usable. Think about it – was I going to return to the media center without some good shots? No way. So I probably took 150 shots with a solid .03% success rate.

Not too bad, huh?

This experience was exhilarating. And more difficult than it looks. I had professional equipment, professional mentoring and some experience with a camera at a race track. It still took me shot after shot and lap after lap. I was surrounded by men and women that were grabbing money shots left and right. I felt like Leonardo DiCaprio in Catch Me If You Can.

An accidentally cool/hot shot

I didn’t want to leave turn 1 and head back inside. But I did. As I walked back to media center carrying my 500mm miniature pony, I noticed a immovable smirk on my face. I had rubbed elbows with some of my heroes. Unforgettable.

Hilarious off track, brilliant on - Will Power

THANK YOU.