Tumbler

Stairwell, Parking Garage, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved


Oops... bumble, stumble, tumble,
Down the stairs I go,
Head over heels.
Hello 3rd floor.
Hello 2nd floor.
Hello Ground floor.
Whump!

Head spinning...
Stars swirling...
Seeing my world
Purple and bruised.
Ouch!

Less is More

Outdoor Art Installation, Waterfront Park, North Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok



Unless you prefer more...

Leap of Faith?

Shop Window Reflection, King Street, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved

Have you ever made a life changing decision based not on reason or logic, but on intuition or gut feeling... one where you threw caution to the wind, disregarded all your fears and reservations, and leapt into the unknown?

Was one of those life altering events ever one where you imagined yourself transparent and leaping into the side of a building while sporting fasionable swim wear?

Hey, me too!

Mysterious Monday - Seance

Dusk, Antebellum Mansion, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved

A few years ago, I attended a seance with the purpose of trying to contact a long deceased relative of mine... my great, great, great, great uncle Wild Bill Hickok. Many legends surrounded this supposed lawman of the Wild West, including the wrestling of bears. So I wanted to ask him if it was really true he wrestled grizzly bears.

While calling upon his spirit, the seance table began to lift off the ground and slowly turn. The lights in the room dimmed, and mist began swirling around me. When I heard strange thumping sounds, my eyes grew wide with astonishment 
and my hair stood on end.

Suddenly the spirit of Wild Bill manifested itself. In a bone chilling voice, he neither confirmed nor denied the bear wrestling stories. He did however advise me against playing poker, especially sitting at a table with my back facing the door... especially in a saloon... and especially while holding a hand of aces and eights, 
the dreaded dead man's hand.

Since that night, I gave up saloons, hard liquor and gambling. Now I only drink sarsaparilla and play an occasional game of tiddlywinks. But I decided to continue the family tradition of wrestling grizzly bears, which by the way, is much more dangerous than I thought it would be.

Red Azaleas

Red Azaleas, South Battery, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved
(Velvia slide film)


The cover shot for this year's Festival of Houses and Gardens was made at White Point Gardens on a sunny Spring morning. The light was just right... the flowers and mansion were in shade (soft light), while the live oak branches were illuminated (backlight) by the early morning sun.

The tours began the third week of March and ended this weekend. We had a very early Spring this year (as did many parts of the US), so the usual time of full blooming was several weeks ahead of schedule.

Historic Charleston Foundation
 Ticket Brochure

Spring Evenings

Garden Gate, Two Meeting Street Inn, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved


One charming aspect of Charleston is evenings in Spring. They are an ideal time to stroll the historic district and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of sweet smelling gardens.

Tomorrow I will conclude my series of Springtime in Charleston with this year's cover shot for the Historic Charleston Foundation's Festival of Houses and Gardens.

Rustic Relief

Rustic Bench, Nathaniel Russell House Garden, Charleston, SC
(Click on image for larger view)


This old iron bench may look uncomfortable to sit in, but after walking around the historic district on a warm Spring day,
you would be amazed at the relief it offers... Ahhhhh!

And now, for your weekend enjoyment,
 take a quick look at these photography links...

See an eclectic collection of images from here and there.

These photographs look like Chinese ink wash paintings.

Finally, Noel has a highly unusual approach to landscape photography.

Long Limbed Oak

Live Oak, White Point Gardens, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view)


White Point Gardens is home to rows of long limbed live oaks and blooming azaleas. It also frames picturesque antebellum mansions which overlook the peaceful greenspace. The gardens are one of the best spots in town to enjoy a sunny Spring afternoon.

China Rose

Yellow Lady Banksia Rose, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Spilling between balusters and over a garden wall, a Lady Banksia Rose graces this view of an antebellum mansion in historic Charleston. Considered a favorite of Southern gardens, especially the yellow variety, the ornamental vine is actually native to China. The rose was named after the wife of the English botanist
 Sir Joseph Banks (1743-1820).

Colors of the Rainbow

Rainbow Row, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view)


Rainbow Row in Spring is an iconic setting in Charleston. 
Many of these row houses date to the 1700s and have witnessed many ups and downs in the city's fascinating history...
 from bustling colonial port to
 the devastation of the Civil War to
 a present day world class tourist destination.

Explore Charleston

Red Crabapple Tree, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Vertical, horizontal & radial repetition of lines...
Complementary colors...
This shot of Charleston in the spring has much to keep your eyes exploring!

Nascence

Wisteria and First Scots Church, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


The nascent blossoms of a wisteria vine dangle in front of First Scots Church, one of numerous historic places of worship in Charleston.

Lights Out

Light Switch, Doug's House, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


After six weeks of exploring the hues of the spectrum, we are ready to turn the lights out on this colorful series and move on. Starting tomorrow I will spend a week showing you Springtime in Charleston.

Cradled

Saint Philip's Church at Sunset, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view)


The setting sun appears to be cradled by the Charleston skyline as it dips below the horizon.

Boneyard

Boneyard Beach at Sunrise, Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve,
 Edisto Island, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film)


Sunrise silhouettes submerged trees, remnants of an ancient coastal forest, at Botany Bay's boneyard beach.


I am proud to announce that this weblog has recently been accepted as a
 Cool Photoblog. Yippee! 


Here is my profile page. 
I would like to thank everyone who voted me in!!!

Cascading Color

Wisteria and Lantern, Edmondston-Alston House, East Battery, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film.)


A waterfall of wisteria adorns a Spring day in Charleston.

Crafty

Detail of a Craft Booth, Folly Beach, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


Even in the early morning, when the craft booths are empty,
there is evidence of the crafty.

Invitation at Twilight

Carriage Courtyard, Battery Carriage House Inn, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


The way the owners have landscaped and lighted the entry to their inn sure makes it look inviting, especially in the romantic, evening atmosphere.

Easter Colors

Entry Garden, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Happy Easter from Charleston!

Blue Moods

Egyptian Door Knocker and Blue Door, Rome, Italy  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film)


Today is the last bluesy post of the series. After two weeks of feeling the blues, I am moving on to the final hue in the color spectrum, violet. In the mean time, say hello to the Egyptian keeper of the gate...
Do you know the pass word?

Blue Shadows

Palm Frond Shadows, Freshfields, John's Island, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


On a bright sunny day, these indigo fingers of palm shadows reflect the blue sky onto pavement made of seashells.

For your weekend entertainment I have selected a few photography links for you to enjoy...

See a collection of fantastic street photography by a man in New York studying for his Ph.D in psychology.

Check-out this ironic take on some of the most famous photographers of our time.

Lastly, what do people do when they are bored? They invent wacky sports.

Room for Copy

Blue Shutter and Shadow, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Often times, a good stock image allows plenty of room for copywriting. For example, in this photo I left enough space in the upper right third of the frame for whatever a copywriter might want to say about Charleston and its unique charms.

But, I would probably write something silly and random,
 in the mode of a Shakespearian quote, such as...
"There is either liquor in his pate
or money in his purse when he looks so merrily."

Indigo Bench

Detail of a Blue Wood Bench, Folly Beach, SC  © Doug Hickok


Sometimes when I look at something for a long time, I begin to imagine things. When I look at the patterns in this weathered bench, I see towels hanging on a towel rack, a clown, an astronaut floating in space, and the UCLA marching band.
What do you see?

The Inn at Night

Rounded Windows, Two Meeting Street Inn, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Staying in one of Charleston's old inns is a wonderful way to lodge in the historic district. Two Meeting Street Inn is one of the most sought after Bed and Breakfasts in town. Located in a prime spot overlooking White Point Gardens on the High Battery, it offers all the charm and romance one would expect to find in our enchanting city. Anyone in the mood for some tea and pastries... or a cocktail while reposing on the porch?

Curving Stairway

Curving Stairway, City Hall, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


This inviting stairway leads up to the entry of Charleston's City Hall. In 1801 the architect Gabriel Manigault introduced the Adamesque style to the city with this handsomely designed building on the corner of Meeting and Broad.

The inauguration of the Spoleto Festival USA is held in front of these steps each year in late May.

True Blue

Blue Steps, Society Street, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view)


This could be a scene from the Mediterranean...
 Spain, Greece or Morocco...
but it is, in fact, Charleston.
The wear and tear of tropical heat & humidity
add texture and character to this true blue view.

Patchy

Weathered Truck, Danny's Classic Cars, Elko, South Carolina  © Doug Hickok


What used to be a new brightly polished truck
 has evolved into a dulled geography of
patchy old blues.

And now for something completely different...
check out this photography link
to the work of an
invisible man.

Have a terrific weekend!

Imbued with Blue

Boat Dock, Allatoona Lake, near Lebanon, Georgia  © Doug Hickok


When evening approaches and the sun dips below shadowy hills, 
almost everything is imbued with the hue of blue...
boat ramp, rocks and water,
even the recalcitrant red of rusting metal.

Ascending Patios

Glass Patios, The Ascent, Covington, Kentucky  © Doug Hickok


This close-up of glass patios ascending up the frame gives an indication of the quirkiness of this luxury condominium's cutting edge architectural design. Views from the patios overlook Cincinnati and the rolling hills of the Ohio River Valley.

Cool Breeze

Window Display, Surf Shop, Folly Beach, SC  © Doug Hickok


When I was a bit younger than I am today, and living in Southern California, I had a roommate who nicknamed me "Cool Breeze" because of my calm and quite nature.  But now that I am much older, I am more likely to be called "Doddering Geezer".

Old Theatre

Main Entry and Balcony, Dock Street Theatre, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film)


This image of the old Dock Street Theatre was made several years ago. The theatre has since been refurbished. Although it lies near the center of the French Quarter, in the early years of the Charlestowne colony it overlooked a tidal creek, hence the name Dock Street. Over time the creek was filled in, and the land used to expand the old town limits.

Night Alley

Longitude Alley, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film)


This alley is estimated to be the oldest street in its original state in Charleston. It dates back to the early years when old Charlestowne was a small walled city, one of only four in colonial North America.

Today also introduces a new color for the week (in a small amount). During the previous four weeks, we have had a color theme for each week, starting first with red. We are gradually working our way through the spectrum, with three more weeks to go.

I apologize again for not keeping up with blogging. I am still working on assignment, trying to meet deadlines.

Have a good Sunday!

Getting Its Dew

Hosta Leaf, Old Farm House Garden, Lewisburg, Ohio  © Doug Hickok


By being planted next to a pond, in a humid climate, this green hosta is getting its due... by accumulating dew overnight, it absorbs the morning moisture through its large leaves, thus satisfying its inveterate thirst for water.

Due to the deep grooves running the length of the leaves, moisture is duly channeled and gathered for optimum consumption.

Contemplation

Ferns and Bench, Thuya Gardens, Mount Desert Island, Maine  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


This solitary bench placed next to a lush growth of ferns seems the perfect spot for quiet contemplation... maybe on this week's celebration of green and the first week of spring.

Something else for you to contemplate is the photography link below...

When walking along the street, have you ever had the sudden urge to bust a ballet move, perhaps leaping into the air and performing a grand jete´ ? Then you will appreciate this set of intriguing images.

Travel Companion

Bear Photog, at a rest stop, somewhere in Kentucky  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


This little bear with a camera, my protege, traveled with us last summer on several of our road trips. He kept asking me to take his picture. So I obliged, and made this quick portrait of him while he posed on the dashboard.

Mint Chocolate Chip?

Quoins, Stucco and Shutter, Broad Street, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


This visual snippet of the corner of a 19th century commercial building on Broad Street shows a few architectural elements typically found in Charleston. Many structures are constructed of locally made brick, often in a Flemish bond pattern, smoothed over with stucco.

In this image, stucco quoins, made to look like quarried stones,  and a stucco wall, combine with a wooden shutter and an iron clasp to form a vignette reminiscent of the color of mint juleps or mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Out Late

Marquee Lights, Riviera Theater, King Street, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


At the end of the day, colorful lights on the Riviera Theater glow in the blue of twilight. Although you will not find any vampires or werewolves in this twilight, you will find me. Over the next several weeks, I will be up early and out late photographing (or in front of the computer processing images) on assignment for the Charleston Visitor's Bureau. They want to replenish and update their image library, so I will be out hunting new material for them.

I apologize for my sporadic or delinquent blogging. I will try to catch up when I can. But don't go away. I will keep on posting new pictures for you to enjoy each day.

Thank you for your patience!

Old Terminal

Old Port Passenger Terminal, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


This view of the old passenger terminal at the port shows rusty metal siding that has weathered over the years. Below the pedestrian catwalk is the grass of the salt marsh in summer green. Due to the booming cruise ship business in Charleston, this building will come down when the new cruise ship passenger terminal begins construction.

 

Schoodic

Lobster Boats, near Prospect Harbor, Schoodic Peninsula, Maine  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


Lobster boats repose
beneath a blue Maine sky,
 after a long day of toil,
safely harbored till dawn
 calls them to sea
again.

Thus begins a new week,
 a new color theme
for you and I.

 

Sanctuary

Sanctuary Sign, Angel Oak, John's Island, SC  © Doug Hickok


We end this yellow week with wild birds gathering on a sign. After the wild week we've had, it's nice to have the sanctuary of the weekend ahead of us... maybe we need a "Hickok Sanctuary" sign in front of our home.

Tubing

Rows of River Tubes, Whitewater River, near Harrison, Ohio  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


Have you ever been tubing? When it is summer time, and the living is easy, and the fish are jumping, and the cotton is high, somewhere there is a quiet river for your tubing pleasure. Jump in a tube, guide it carefully into the river, and float on the cool, soothing waters, move lazily with the calming currents, as though you had not a worry in the world. It is the perfect way to cool off on a sunny summer day.

If you don't have a lazy river near you (or if it's still too darn cold) here are a few photography links to explore indoors.

Odd and quirky sums up these images from Poland.

See the amazing undersea work of Wayne Levin, especially his fish schools series.

Finally, we present the incredible minimalist images of Matthias Heiderich.

Memories of Summers

Castle Hill, Budapest, Hungary  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film. Click on image for larger view.)


This week I have presented warm pictures for your enjoyment, mostly from summers past. This picture I remember well, because I made it in Budapest on one of the hottest days of that year. The hot sun heats up the warm colors on the facade of this historic house on Castle Hill... lots of yellow and orange, with a little splash of green and blue.

One day soon, summer will come again.

Glimpse

Carriage Horses, Old Town, Krakow, Poland  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film)


While walking around the old city of Krakow one summer day, camera in hand, I decided to explore an open door that led to a long hallway. Finding a dead end there, I turned around toward the street, attracted by the sound of clip-clopping hooves. As I looked-up, I happened to glimpse a tandem of horses pulling a carriage. I made this quick image through the door just as the horse closest to me stepped forward.

A Tale of Knights Turning Tail

Yellow Picnic Table, Folly Beach, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)



There was a time, long ago,
 when knights were brave and chivalrous.
 But the knights I tell a tale of were not.
 When trouble called, they were no where to be found.
 When damsels were distressed, they ran away.
 When jousting tournaments came to town,
they claimed a prior commitment.
 When lords called upon them for support in battle,
they hummed loudly and put their fingers in their ears.
 When a quest was required, they sent their squires.
 These my friends were The Knights of the Yellow Round Table.

Designer Trappings

Lobster Traps, Schoodic Peninsula, Maine  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)

March 12, 2012

Dear lobsters,

Do not be tempted by these lovely designer colors.

You may think that getting away from the mirky sea bottom and rising to the heights above the sea is progress... success.  You may have even heard of a process that will turn your shell from dreary and dull to a stunning shade of red and of bathing in fragrant  liquids.  DO NOT BE FOOLED!  Trust me... There's no place like home!

Sincerely,

Becky Hickok

Interior Designer

Hue & Eye Photography & Design

cc Dorothy and Toto too

A Tarn Yarn

Goldenrod Flowers, The Tarn, Acadia National Park, Maine  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)



At The Tarn we witnessed goldenrod swaying, 
two loons yodeling, 
three beavers drumming, 
four chipmunks chuckling, 
five trout clapping, 
and a moose dancing in a birch grove, 
all in a joyful greeting to the early morning light
 of an Acadian summer day.

A Time for Orange to End

Detail of a Kayak, Bohicket Marina, John's Island, SC  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view.)


To end our color theme week like clockwork, 
orange dominates the entire composition,
leaving no room for other colors.

We have had a red week, then an orange. 
With tomorrow we begin a new week,
and a new hue,
for your eye.

Linked

Post and Chain, near Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy  © Doug Hickok
(Velvia slide film. Click on image for larger view.)


Each moment in time is linked,
 in directions both past and present,
 like a chain.
Yet, where the links take us,
 is a mystery.

Except for today.
 Today, I offer links,
that contain no mysteries...
or do they?

Click this link to see Normandy in ghostly monochrome.

This link takes you to the impeccable Rodney Smith.

And the final link is Watanabe's Kabuki.

Buoys in the Hood

Orange Buoys in a Window, Bass Harbor, Maine  © Doug Hickok
(Click on image for larger view)


A row of orange buoys hangin' out in a lobster shack window in the neighborhood of Bass Harbor, Maine.