A Necessary Escape

Sometimes I feel like a bird in a storm; completely out of control, moving whichever direction the wind takes me. I also feel like that’s ok. You’re never going to have complete control of your life and the key is to find a way to manage. For me, I like to shut my phone off and go on an adventure. Sometimes it’s on a big run, but other times, I’ll try something new.

A few years ago, after I worked on a film documenting the Trans American Bike Race, I purchased a touring bike with big plans to ride around the west, and while I haven’t found myself planning any huge rides, I have found time to do some smaller ones. One in particular was down in Death Valley with my older brother Mike. We didn’t cover a ton of ground, but I remember the silence and the feeling of freedom, being out in such a vast landscape. It was definitely a necessary escape, and one that I look forward to revisiting.

Rolling Hills Through Farmland

A while back, I had the opportunity to drive across country, documenting a cycling race for the film Inspired to Ride. It was such an awesome experience getting to see parts of the United States that I otherwise would never have visited.

Before the race, I chatted with quite a few of the athletes and one of the things that constantly came up was the midwest. All the athletes were intrigued by the midwest. For the most part, they knew what to expect the rest of the route, but the midwest was a giant blank. Having never spent any significant time there, I was also intrigued. What I found far exceeded my expectations. The people were pleasant, the rolling hills through farmland made for a nice backdrop, and for the film crew, the weather turned out to be pretty good.  Not everyone was as fortunate, but for me, it was great.

First Breath

Walden, CO - We had just finished up filming for the day, documenting an unsupported cycling race across the United States and I had some time, so I grabbed my rolleiflex and ran down to the pond. In hindsight, I should have also filmed some scenics, but I must admit that was the furthest thing from my mind. The sunset was going off, and the scene around the pond was mesmerizing. That’s one thing that I enjoy about shooting film. It seems like when I do, my mind clears and I focus on what’s in my hands and my surroundings. I quit thinking about problems that i’m having in my life, and I take my first breath.